Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups

Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups are a delicious, comforting, and creative twist on traditional lasagna. Featuring tender sheets of pasta rolled up with a rich, creamy butternut squash filling and layered with gooey cheese and a savory béchamel sauce, this dish brings together all the cozy flavors of fall in a beautifully presented, single-serving format. Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or even meal prep, these lasagna roll-ups are as visually impressive as they are delicious.

Butternut squash is the star of this recipe, lending a natural sweetness and creaminess that pairs beautifully with fresh herbs, cheeses, and the smooth, slightly nutty flavor of béchamel. Combined with traditional Italian ingredients like ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan, this dish offers a unique spin on lasagna that feels both indulgent and refined. The roll-up style not only adds an elegant touch but also makes serving easier, allowing everyone to enjoy their individual portion of this hearty, satisfying dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups recipe is the perfect way to embrace the cozy flavors of fall. It’s a comforting, wholesome dish that’s packed with flavor, thanks to the natural sweetness of butternut squash, the creaminess of ricotta, and the depth of the cheeses. This recipe also feels a bit lighter than traditional lasagna, as it uses butternut squash in place of a heavier meat sauce, making it a great vegetarian option. The individual roll-up portions are easy to serve and make this dish a unique choice for holiday gatherings, dinner parties, or a special weeknight meal.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 12 roll-ups
• Serving Size: 2 roll-ups

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Protein: 15g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 4g

Ingredients

For the Butternut Squash Filling

• 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 cups mashed)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, for a hint of warmth)

For the Béchamel Sauce

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk or 2% milk, warmed
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• A pinch of nutmeg (optional)

For the Lasagna Roll Ups

• 12 lasagna noodles
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the Squash: Peel, seed, and cube the butternut squash. Spread it on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Roast: Roast the squash in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and easily mashed with a fork.
4. Mash the Squash: Once roasted, transfer the squash to a bowl and mash until smooth. Allow it to cool slightly before mixing in the cheeses.

Step 2: Prepare the Butternut Squash Filling

1. Mix the Cheeses with Squash: Add ricotta, Parmesan, mozzarella, and a pinch of nutmeg (if using) to the mashed butternut squash. Mix until the filling is well combined and creamy. Set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Lasagna Noodles

1. Boil the Noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the lasagna noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain and Cool: Drain the noodles and lay them flat on a baking sheet to prevent sticking. You can drizzle a bit of olive oil over the noodles to keep them from sticking to each other.

Step 4: Make the Béchamel Sauce

1. Melt the Butter: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
2. Make a Roux: Add the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and slightly golden, creating a roux.
3. Add Milk Gradually: Slowly pour in the warm milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue to cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
4. Season: Add a pinch of nutmeg (optional), and season with salt and pepper to taste. Set the béchamel sauce aside.

Step 5: Assemble the Roll Ups

1. Prepare for Filling: Lay each lasagna noodle flat on a clean surface.
2. Spread the Filling: Spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the butternut squash filling onto each noodle, spreading it evenly from one end to the other.
3. Roll Up: Starting from one end, roll up each noodle tightly but gently to create a spiral. Repeat with all noodles.

Step 6: Arrange and Bake

1. Spread Béchamel in Baking Dish: Pour about 1/2 cup of the béchamel sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
2. Place Roll Ups in the Dish: Arrange the roll-ups in the baking dish, seam-side down. Pour the remaining béchamel sauce over the top of the roll-ups.
3. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top of the roll-ups for a golden, cheesy crust.
4. Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish: Remove the lasagna roll-ups from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley.
2. Serve: Let the dish cool slightly before serving. Serve warm, either as individual roll-ups or as a whole casserole.

Ingredient Background

The ingredients in this Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups recipe work together to create a harmonious, flavorful dish. Butternut squash adds natural sweetness and creaminess to the filling, making it a lighter alternative to a traditional meat filling. The combination of ricotta, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheeses creates a creamy, cheesy filling that complements the squash without overpowering it. Béchamel sauce adds richness and smoothness, while the lasagna noodles hold everything together in individual, easy-to-serve portions. Herbs like thyme, nutmeg, and basil enhance the flavors, giving the dish a warm, cozy, autumn-inspired aroma.

Technique Tips

• Roast the Squash for Extra Flavor: Roasting the squash brings out its natural sweetness and adds depth of flavor.
• Cook the Noodles Al Dente: Lasagna noodles should be cooked al dente, as they’ll continue to soften in the oven.
• Spread the Filling Evenly: Distribute the filling evenly on each noodle to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
• Use Warm Milk in Béchamel: Using warm milk helps the béchamel sauce thicken smoothly without lumps.
• Cover with Foil First: Covering the dish with foil for the first part of baking prevents the cheese from browning too quickly, ensuring a perfectly melted, golden top.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Mini Lasagna Rolls: Use smaller lasagna noodles or cut the noodles in half to create mini roll-ups, perfect for appetizers or a buffet.
• Layered Butternut Squash Lasagna: Instead of roll-ups, layer the noodles, filling, and béchamel sauce in a traditional lasagna format for a family-style dish.
• Single-Serve Ramekins: Assemble individual portions in ramekins for an elegant, single-serve presentation.
• Open-Faced Roll Ups: Instead of rolling, fold the noodles over the filling to create an open-faced lasagna roll that’s easier to serve.

Additional Tips for Success

• Choose a Ripe Butternut Squash: Look for a squash that feels heavy for its size and has a deep, even color for the best flavor.
• Avoid Overfilling: Overfilling the noodles can make them difficult to roll. Use about 2-3 tablespoons of filling per noodle.
• Let the Dish Rest Before Serving: Allowing the lasagna to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving makes it easier to plate and enhances the flavors.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme and basil add a burst of flavor and make the dish feel extra special.

Recipe Variations

• Butternut Squash and Spinach Roll Ups: Add a layer of sautéed spinach to the filling for extra color and nutrients.
• Sage-Infused Béchamel: Add a few fresh sage leaves to the béchamel sauce for a classic fall pairing with butternut squash.
• Butternut Squash and Mushroom Roll Ups: Add a layer of sautéed mushrooms to the filling for an earthy twist.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles and substitute gluten-free flour in the béchamel sauce.

Freezing and Storage

• Storing Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
• Freezing: These roll-ups freeze well. Arrange the assembled (but unbaked) roll-ups in a freezer-safe baking dish. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
• Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Use Whole-Wheat Lasagna Noodles: Whole-wheat noodles add fiber and nutrients, making this dish more filling and nutritious.
• Reduce Cheese: Use less cheese in the filling and on top to reduce calories and fat. The béchamel sauce will still provide creaminess.
• Add Vegetables: Incorporate sautéed spinach, kale, or mushrooms into the filling for additional nutrients.
• Lighten the Béchamel: Substitute whole milk with low-fat milk or a dairy-free milk alternative for a lighter béchamel.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Holiday Dinner: Serve as a cozy, vegetarian main course for a fall or winter holiday gathering.
• Family Style Dinner: This dish is perfect for a comforting, family-style meal. Serve with a green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Date Night: These roll-ups make a beautiful, individual-serving dish that’s perfect for a romantic dinner at home.
• Potluck Favorite: The individual portions make it easy to serve at potlucks or gatherings. Prepare in advance and bake just before serving.

Special Equipment

• 9×13-Inch Baking Dish: A standard baking dish is ideal for baking these roll-ups.
• Whisk: A whisk is useful for creating a smooth béchamel sauce.
• Vegetable Peeler: Helpful for peeling the butternut squash quickly and efficiently.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use pre-cut butternut squash?
Yes, pre-cut squash saves time and works well for this recipe. Simply roast until tender and proceed with the filling.

2. Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, use vegan cheeses and substitute the milk and butter in the béchamel sauce with plant-based alternatives.

3. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free lasagna noodles and gluten-free flour for the béchamel sauce.

4. How do I prevent the roll-ups from sticking to each other?
Arrange them in a single layer in the baking dish, with some sauce underneath and on top to prevent sticking.

5. Can I substitute sweet potato for butternut squash?
Yes, mashed sweet potato makes a great substitute, adding a similar sweetness and texture.

6. How do I reheat this dish without drying it out?
Reheat in the oven, covered with foil, to prevent the cheese from drying out. Add a bit of extra béchamel or broth if needed.

7. Can I add meat to this recipe?
Yes, cooked Italian sausage or shredded chicken can be added to the filling for a heartier dish.

8. Can I make this in advance?
Yes, assemble the roll-ups and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

Conclusion

Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups offer a unique and flavorful twist on traditional lasagna, perfect for fall and winter meals. The combination of sweet, creamy butternut squash with rich cheeses and a delicate béchamel sauce creates a satisfying, indulgent dish that’s sure to impress. The roll-up format makes serving easy and elegant, whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, preparing a cozy family dinner, or looking for a beautiful presentation for a date night at home. With their comforting flavors, beautiful presentation, and versatility, these Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups are bound to become a seasonal favorite. Enjoy every delicious, cheesy bite!

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