Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta

These Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta are about to become your new favorite fall pasta! Not only is the presentation beautiful, but they taste like fall. Ideal for cozy dinners or festive gatherings, these roll-ups combine the flavors of creamy ricotta and roasted butternut squash, offering a delightful twist on traditional lasagna. Plus, they’re vegetarian-friendly and packed with flavor!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of butternut squash, ricotta, and sage creates a rich and comforting dish that captures the essence of fall.
• Stunning Presentation: Roll-ups are visually appealing and perfect for impressing guests at dinner parties or family gatherings.
• Easy Preparation: Simple steps make this dish manageable even for novice cooks, ensuring a stress-free cooking experience.
• Versatile Options: You can easily customize the filling or sauce according to your preferences, making this recipe adaptable for various diets.
• Perfect Make-Ahead Meal: These roll-ups can be prepared in advance and baked just before serving, making them an excellent choice for busy weeknights.

Tools and Preparation

Before starting this delicious recipe, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Cooking pot
• Whisk
• Baking dish (9×13” rectangular or 8×14” oval)
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Whisk: Perfect for ensuring a smooth bécchicken hamel sauce by thoroughly mixing the ingredients.

Ingredients

To make these delightful Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Roll Ups:

• 1 package lasagna noodles (can use gluten-free – should only need 15-16 noodles, but many will break apart during cooking)
• 1 cup mashed butternut squash (or a can of pumpkin purée)
• 1¼ cup ricotta, (divided)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan (plus more for serving)
• 1 large egg
• 2 Tbsp finely chopped sage (plus more for serving, either chopped or whole small leaves)
• 1 tsp Kosher salt
• ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)

For the Bécchicken Hamel:

• 4 Tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2-3 cups milk (warm; for thicker bécchicken hamel, use 2 cups; for looser sauce, use 3 cups)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan
• ⅛ tsp grated nutmeg
• Pinch of cayenne pepper
• ½ tsp Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
• 4 large sage leaves
• 2 garlic cloves (smashed)
• A handful of fresh sage leaves
• Neutral oil

How to Make Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta

Step 1: Cook the Lasagna Noodles

• Cook the lasagna noodles according to package directions until al dente.
• Drain them and lay flat on a rimmed baking sheet. Spray lightly with cooking spray or drizzle with oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine 1 cup mashed butternut squash purée, ¾ cup ricotta, ½ cup grated Parmesan, 1 egg, 2 Tbsp chopped sage, 1 tsp Kosher salt, and ¼ tsp black pepper.
2. Stir until well mixed. If too thick to spread easily, add remaining ½ cup ricotta cheese.

Step 3: Make the Bécchicken Hamel

1. Melt 4 Tbsp unsalted butter over medium heat in a saucepan.
2. When melted, add 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour and whisk until light golden brown (about 3 minutes).
3. Quickly whisk in 2–3 cups of warm milk; increase heat to medium-high.
4. Bring to a simmer while continuing to whisk for another 3 minutes.
5. Reduce heat to low; add sage leaves and smashed garlic cloves.
6. Cook until thickened and smooth (about 8–10 minutes).
7. Stir in remaining ingredients: ¼ cup grated Parmesan, nutmeg, cayenne pepper, Kosher salt, and black pepper.

Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna Roll Ups

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Lay out as many lasagna noodles as will fit on your cutting board.
3. Place about 2–3 Tbsp of filling on each noodle; spread into a thin layer across the noodle.
4. Sprinkle each with about 1–2 Tbsp shredded mozzarella.
5. Roll each noodle from bottom to top; set aside gently.

Step 5: Bake the Lasagna Roll Ups

1. Discard fresh sage leaves + smashed garlic cloves from bécchicken hamel if using.
2. Pour half of bécchicken hamel into the bottom of your baking dish.
3. Place roll ups in pan — they can lie flat or stand up on their sides based on your preference!
4. Drizzle remaining bécchicken hamel sauce over top; sprinkle any remaining mozzarella cheese.
5. Bake for approximately 30 minutes or until bubbly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve!

Sprinkle with grated Parmesan and black pepper if desired; garnish with fresh sage leaves before serving!

Step 7: Optional Fried Sage Leaves

If you’d like crispy sage leaves:
1. Heat neutral oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
2. Add sage leaves in batches; cook for about 20–30 seconds until bubbles subside around them.
3. Remove carefully with a slotted spoon; drain on paper towels and season lightly with Kosher salt before serving.

Enjoy your Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta — a truly delightful fall-inspired dish!

How to Serve Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta

These Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta are not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve them in various ways to enhance your dining experience.

With a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes drizzled with a balsamic vinaigrette pairs well.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with a creamy dressing and croutons adds a classic touch.

Topped with Extra Cheese

• Parmesan Sprinkle: Grate fresh Parmesan over the top just before serving for an extra layer of flavor.
• Mozzarella Melt: Broil the roll-ups briefly after baking to create a bubbly mozzarella topping.

Accompanied by Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for a delightful crunch that complements the creamy lasagna.
• Focaccia: Soft, herb-infused focaccia bread can be a wonderful accompaniment to soak up the béchamel sauce.

How to Perfect Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta

To make your Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups truly shine, follow these helpful tips for perfection.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh butternut squash and herbs will elevate the flavors significantly compared to canned or dried versions.
• Cook Noodles Al Dente: Ensure your lasagna noodles are cooked al dente to prevent them from becoming too soft when baked.
• Adjust Sauce Thickness: Experiment with milk amounts in the béchamel to find your preferred consistency—thicker for richness or looser for ease of serving.
• Chill Before Serving: Allow the dish to sit for 10 minutes after baking; this helps it set and makes serving easier.
• Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to add other herbs like thyme or rosemary for an additional flavor profile.
• Freeze Leftovers: These roll-ups freeze well. Store them in an airtight container after baking for a quick meal later on.

Best Side Dishes for Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta

Complementing your Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with the right side dishes can make a complete meal. Here are some great suggestions.

1. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like Brussels sprouts and carrots roasted until crispy bring out their natural sweetness.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic add comfort and richness alongside the roll ups.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli provides a healthy contrast and adds color to your plate; drizzle with lemon juice for zest.
4. Caprese Salad: A refreshing salad made from fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, and olive oil can balance the richness of the dish.
5. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, bell peppers, and lemon dressing offers a light, nutritious option.
6. Sautéed Spinach: Quickly sautéed spinach seasoned with garlic adds both flavor and nutrients without overpowering the main dish.
7. Zucchini Noodles: Light zucchini noodles tossed in olive oil are a fun way to add texture and keep things fresh.
8. Crispy Polenta Fries: These provide a crunchy alternative that pairs wonderfully with the creamy lasagna roll ups.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta, there are some common pitfalls to watch for. Avoiding these mistakes will ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Incorrect noodle cooking: Overcooking lasagna noodles can lead to mushiness. Always cook them until al dente, as they’ll continue cooking in the oven.
• Filling too thick: A filling that’s too thick makes it difficult to spread. If your mixture is hard to work with, simply add a little more ricotta cheese to loosen it up.
• Neglecting sauce thickness: A sauce that’s too runny will not hold the roll-ups together. Adjust the amount of milk when making the bécchicken hamel for the desired consistency.
• Skipping garnishes: Failing to add fresh herbs or cheese on top can make your dish less appealing. Always finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh sage for added flavor and presentation.
• Not letting it rest: Cutting into the lasagna roll-ups immediately after baking can cause them to fall apart. Allow them to rest for at least 10 minutes before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover lasagna roll ups in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta

• Wrap individual roll ups tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth, covering until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta, we’ve got you covered!

Can I make Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the roll-ups a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator before baking.

What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?

You can substitute ricotta cheese with cottage cheese or a dairy-free alternative if you’re looking for a lighter option.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini into the filling for added nutrition and flavor.

How do I know when my lasagna roll ups are done?

The roll-ups are done when the sauce is bubbling and the cheese on top is melted and slightly golden.

Can I use gluten-free noodles?

Yes! Gluten-free lasagna noodles work great in this recipe; just follow package instructions for cooking times.

Final Thoughts

These Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta are not only delicious but also versatile. They make an excellent choice for any fall gathering or cozy dinner at home. Customize your rolls by adding different herbs or vegetables as you prefer. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress family and friends!