Name: Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups for Cozy Fall Dinners
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 12 oz Lasagna Noodles (Use gluten-free for an alternative); 2 cups Mashed Butternut Squash (Pumpkin purée can be substituted); ¾ cup Ricotta Cheese (Use an extra ½ cup for texture); ½ cup Grated Parmesan (More can be used for topping); 1 large Egg (Binds the filling); 2 tbsp Chopped Sage (Garnish with fresh leaves if desired); 1 tsp Kosher Salt; ½ tsp Black Pepper; 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (For topping); 4 tbsp Unsalted Butter (For béchamel sauce); ¼ cup All-Purpose Flour (Can be replaced with gluten-free blend); 2 cups Warm Milk (Adjust for thickness); ¼ tsp Grated Nutmeg; ¼ tsp Cayenne Pepper (Optional); 2 cloves Garlic (Minced); 2 tbsp Neutral Oil (For frying sage leaves)

As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, I often find myself craving cozy comfort food that warms both body and soul. My favorite way to embrace fall is with these delightful Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups. Each tender roll is filled with creamy mashed butternut squash, ricotta, and a touch of sage, all swimming in a luscious béchamel sauce. What I love most about this recipe is how effortless it is to prepare while still impressing family and friends—perfect for a festive Friendsgiving or an intimate autumn gathering. Plus, they’re vegetarian-friendly and can easily be made gluten-free for those with dietary restrictions. So, are you ready to transform your dinner into a celebration of the season? Let’s dive in!

Why is Butternut Squash Lasagna Irresistible?

Heartwarming Comfort: These Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups bring the essence of fall to your table, providing a cozy and nostalgic dining experience.

Effortlessly Elegant: Impress your guests with this visually stunning dish that looks gourmet but is surprisingly simple to make!

Flavorful Layers: The combination of sweet butternut squash, creamy ricotta, and aromatic sage creates a symphony of flavors that tickle your taste buds.

Versatile Variations: Easily adapt the recipe to fit your preferences by swapping butternut squash for sweet potatoes or adding spinach for a fresh twist. For more delicious vegetarian options, check out my Spinach Mushroom Lasagna or savor the delights of Seafood Lasagna Shrimp.

Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare ahead and store in the fridge, making entertaining a breeze while ensuring you have time to relax and enjoy your evening.

Butternut Squash Lasagna Ingredients

For the Roll-Ups

Lasagna Noodles – Essential for structure. Feel free to use gluten-free noodles for a suitable alternative.
Mashed Butternut Squash – Brings a natural sweetness and embodies fall flavors; pumpkin purée can be a quick substitute.
Ricotta Cheese – Provides a creamy richness; use ¾ cup for filling and an extra ½ cup as needed for texture.
Grated Parmesan – Adds a savory depth to both the filling and béchamel; more can be sprinkled on top for added flavor.
Egg – Binds your filling ingredients together; crucial for keeping everything intact.
Chopped Sage – Infuses a lovely herbal note; feel free to garnish with more fresh leaves for an aromatic finish.
Kosher Salt & Black Pepper – Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

For the Sauce

Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – For that perfect meltiness on top of the roll-ups.
Unsalted Butter – The rich base for your béchamel sauce.
All-Purpose Flour – Critical for thickening your béchamel; can be substituted with a gluten-free blend if needed.
Warm Milk – Ensures a creamy texture for the béchamel; adjust quantity for your desired sauce thickness.
Grated Nutmeg – Adds warmth and aromatic qualities to the sauce.
Cayenne Pepper – Introduces a hint of heat; optional but delicious!
Garlic – Imparts a rich flavor to the béchamel sauce.

Optional Garnish

Neutral Oil – Best for frying sage leaves to give an additional crunchy element to your dish (optional).

Enjoy creating these Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups, a delightful vegetarian dish that beautifully captures the essence of fall!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups

Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water over high heat. Once it reaches a rolling boil, carefully add the lasagna noodles and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the noodles and lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel or baking sheet to cool, ensuring they don’t stick together.

Step 2: Prepare Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy mashed butternut squash, ricotta, Parmesan, egg, chopped sage, kosher salt, and black pepper. Using a spatula, mix until the filling is smooth and well-blended. If you prefer a creamier consistency, feel free to adjust with the remaining ricotta cheese. Set this mixture aside for assembling.

Step 3: Make Béchamel Sauce
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once melted, sprinkle in ¼ cup of all-purpose flour, whisking continuously until the mixture turns a light golden brown, about 2 minutes. Gradually pour in 2 cups of warm milk, whisking until the sauce thickens, approximately 5-7 minutes. Stir in grated Parmesan, nutmeg, cayenne pepper, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Assemble Roll-Ups
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lay a lasagna noodle flat on a clean surface and spread an even layer of the butternut squash filling along one edge, leaving space at the ends. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and carefully roll it up away from you, tucking in the edges as you go to secure the filling. Repeat with the remaining noodles until all the filling is used.

Step 5: Bake
Spread half of the prepared béchamel sauce on the bottom of a large baking dish. Place the assembled butternut squash lasagna roll ups seam-side down in the dish. Pour the remaining béchamel sauce over the top and sprinkle with additional mozzarella cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Step 6: Serve
Once baked to perfection, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will help the flavors meld beautifully. Serve your elegant Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups warm, garnished with extra sage leaves if desired, and enjoy each cozy bite!

What to Serve with Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups

As you savor each delicious bite, complement your meal with these delightful pairings that will elevate the cozy fall experience.

Garlicky Green Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers a beautiful contrast to the rich flavors of the lasagna.
Crusty Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery crunch of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover béchamel sauce—pure indulgence!
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The caramelized edges and earthy taste of Brussels sprouts provide a hearty, flavorful side that pairs perfectly with the dish.
Fresh Apple Cider: Enjoy the sweet and slightly tart notes of this fall favorite beverage, enhancing the season’s warmth with every sip.
Herb-Infused Risotto: A creamy herb risotto brings a velvety texture and comforting flavor that harmonizes beautifully with the sweetness of the butternut squash.
Pumpkin Cheesecake: Treat yourself to a slice of this luscious dessert, offering warm spices that echo the fall essence found in the lasagna.
Crispy Sage Leaves: Frying fresh sage to garnish not only adds flavor and crunch but also enhances the aromatic profile of the entire meal.
Light White Wine: A glass of Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc accents the rich pasta while refreshing your palate between bites.

How to Store and Freeze Butternut Squash Lasagna

Fridge: Store leftover Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain the best quality, separate layers with parchment paper.

Freezer: Freeze unbaked roll-ups for up to 3 months. Wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. When ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw—just extend baking time by 10-15 minutes.

Reheating: To reheat, place leftovers in a covered baking dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through. Feel free to add a splash of milk to keep them moist!

Make-Ahead: Assemble the lasagna roll-ups a day in advance and keep them in the fridge, covered with béchamel, making for a stress-free dinner that’s ready when you are.

Expert Tips for Butternut Squash Lasagna

Prevent Sticking: Use cooking spray on the noodles as they cool to avoid them sticking together, which can make rolling difficult.

Smooth Sauce: Whisk the béchamel thoroughly while cooking; this helps achieve a creamy consistency without lumps. Avoid browning the flour too much to keep a light flavor.

Adjust Filling Texture: Vary the amount of ricotta in your butternut squash filling for a texture that’s easy to spread but still holds together well.

Crispy Sage: For a lovely garnish, fry sage leaves until they’re crispy but be careful not to burn them, as they add delightful flavor and texture.

Warm Milk: Make sure your milk is warm before adding it to the béchamel sauce to help it thicken perfectly and create a silky texture.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble the roll-ups a day in advance, covering them with béchamel before baking to save time on busy evenings.

Butternut Squash Lasagna Variations

Get ready to explore exciting ways to customize your Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups and make them your own!

Sweet Potato: Swap out butternut squash for sweet potatoes for a slightly different sweetness and creamy texture.
Spinach or Mushroom: Replace sage with sautéed spinach or mushrooms for a fresh, earthy twist.
Ground Meat: Add a layer of ground turkey or beef to the filling to boost protein and savoriness.
Plant-Based: Use dairy-free ricotta and mozzarella for a vegan-friendly version that still tastes exceptional!
Spicy Kick: Stir in a bit of red pepper flakes or increase the cayenne for a thrilling heat that warms the soul.
Nutty Flavor: Mix in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts to introduce a lovely crunch and nutty flavor.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with other fresh herbs like thyme or basil to switch up the flavor profile while still keeping it fresh.
Creamy Layer: Add a dollop of cream cheese to the filling for an ultra-rich, velvety texture that’s hard to resist.

Whether you’re opting for a heartier addition or a fresh herb exchange, these variations will keep your meals exciting. For more delightful veggie ideas, don’t miss my Spinach Mushroom Lasagna or give a try to the delightful Seafood Lasagna Shrimp for a touch of the sea!

Make Ahead Options

These Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups are a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble the roll ups up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in the refrigerator covered with béchamel to keep them moist and prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can freeze them for up to 3 months by placing them in an airtight container. When ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw—just increase the cooking time by 10-15 minutes, ensuring they reach bubbly perfection. This way, you can enjoy cozy, comforting dinners even on your busiest nights, making the Butternut Squash Lasagna a hassle-free delight!

Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe butternut squash?
Absolutely! When selecting butternut squash, look for firm, smooth skin without any dark spots or blemishes. The squash should feel heavy for its size, indicating ripeness. A deep, rich orange color is a sign of sweetness, so pick one that feels just right and trust your instincts!

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
After enjoying your Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups, let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them for longer, separating layers with parchment paper will help maintain the quality.

How should I freeze lasagna roll ups?
To freeze your Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups, wrap each individual roll tightly in plastic wrap, then wrap in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw—just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time for perfect deliciousness!

What if my béchamel sauce is too thick?
Very! If your béchamel sauce turns out thicker than desired, don’t worry—simply whisk in a little more warm milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you achieve the smooth, creamy consistency you’re after. Don’t be afraid to adjust it; after all, it’s all about creating the perfect sauce for your lasagna roll ups!

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, indeed! You can easily make Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups gluten-free by substituting traditional lasagna noodles with a gluten-free variety. Just be sure to check the cooking instructions on the package, as they can vary. This allows everyone to enjoy this comforting dish without worry!

Are there any common allergies to be aware of?
Absolutely! The primary allergens in this recipe include dairy (from ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan) and eggs. For those with dairy allergies, consider using non-dairy cheese alternatives or silken tofu in place of ricotta. Always double-check ingredients and consult with guests to ensure everyone’s dietary needs are accommodated.