Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta

These Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta are the perfect dish to embrace the flavors of fall. They offer a delightful blend of creamy ricotta, savory squash, and aromatic sage, all wrapped in tender lasagna noodles. This recipe is not only visually appealing but also easy to prepare, making it suitable for weeknight dinners or special gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Fall Flavors: The combination of butternut squash and sage captures the essence of autumn.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this dish can be ready in just one hour.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep for busy days!
• Impressive Presentation: Roll ups look stunning on the plate, making them great for entertaining.
• Comforting and Satisfying: This hearty dish provides a warm and cozy feel, ideal for chilly evenings.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, ensure you have the right tools at hand. These will make your experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Baking dish (9×13” or 8×14”)
• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Spatula or spoon
• Rimmed baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Allows ample space to combine ingredients without mess.
• Baking dish: Perfectly fits your roll ups, ensuring even cooking and easy serving.
• Saucepan: Ideal for preparing the creamy bécchicken hamel sauce without burning.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make these Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta:

• 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)
• 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. Lightly spray 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,
2. ¾ cup ricotta,
3. ½ cup grated Parmesan,
4. 1 egg,
5. 2 Tbsp chopped sage,
6. 1 tsp Kosher salt, and
7. ¼ tsp black pepper.

Stir until well mixed. If too thick to spread easily, add the remaining ½ cup ricotta cheese.

Step 3: Make the Bécchicken Hamel Sauce

1. Melt 4 Tbsp unsalted butter over medium heat in a saucepan.
2. Once melted, add in 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour. Whisk until light golden brown, about 3 minutes.
3. Quickly whisk in 2–3 cups warm milk. Increase heat to medium-high until simmering.
4. Continue whisking for another 3 minutes before reducing heat to low.
5. Add in sage leaves and smashed garlic cloves; cook until thickened and velvety, about 8–10 minutes.
6. Stir in additional ingredients:
7. ¼ cup grated Parmesan,
8. ⅛ tsp nutmeg,
9. pinch of cayenne,
10. ½ tsp Kosher salt,
11. freshly cracked black pepper to taste.

Set aside once complete.

Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna Roll Ups

Preheat your oven to 375F:
1. Lay out as many lasagna noodles as fit on your cutting board.
2. Place about 2–3 Tbsp of filling onto each noodle and spread evenly using a spatula or spoon.
3. Sprinkle each noodle with about 1–2 Tbsp shredded mozzarella cheese.
4. Roll each noodle from bottom to top and set aside gently.

Step 5: Bake the Lasagna Roll Ups

Discard fresh sage leaves and smashed garlic from the sauce if used:
1. Pour half of the bécchicken hamel sauce into a baking dish.
2. Arrange roll ups inside—either lying flat or standing up—based on your preference.
3. Drizzle remaining sauce over roll ups and sprinkle any leftover mozzarella on top.
4. Bake for approximately 30 minutes or until bubbling and edges are crisped.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve!

Sprinkle with grated Parmesan and black pepper if desired:
Garnish with fresh sage leaves before serving hot.

Step 7: Optional Fried Sage Leaves

For crispy fried sage leaves:
1. Heat about an inch of neutral oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add sage leaves in batches; fry until bubbles subside (~20–30 seconds).
3. Remove with a slotted spoon; drain on paper towel and season lightly with Kosher salt before serving.

Enjoy these Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta!

How to Serve Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta

These Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta are not just delicious but also beautifully presented. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens: A light salad of mixed greens with a citrus vinaigrette complements the richness of the roll ups.
• Arugula Salad: Tossed with lemon juice and olive oil, arugula adds a peppery kick that balances the sweetness of the squash.

Add a Simple Garlic Bread

• Classic Garlic Bread: Serve warm, buttered garlic bread for dipping into the creamy béchamel sauce.
• Herb-Infused Breadsticks: These can be a fun finger food alongside your lasagna roll ups.

Drizzle Extra Sauce

• Béchamel Sauce: Serve additional béchamel sauce on the side for those who want an extra creamy touch.
• Sage Oil Drizzle: A drizzle of sage-infused oil adds flavor and elegance to each plate.

How to Perfect Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta

Perfecting your Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups can elevate this dish even further. Here are some handy tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh butternut squash and herbs for the best flavor.
• Don’t Overcook Noodles: Cook lasagna noodles until al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy after baking.
• Layer Wisely: Spread filling evenly across each noodle for consistent flavor in every bite.
• Adjust Cheese Ratios: Feel free to adjust ricotta or mozzarella amounts based on your preference for creaminess and texture.
• Experiment with Spices: Adding spices like nutmeg or cayenne can elevate the dish and add depth to its flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta

Complementing your main dish with perfect side dishes enhances the meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Roasted Broccoli: This dish is simple yet flavorful; just roast broccoli florets with garlic for a crunchy side.
2. Sautéed Spinach: Quickly sauté spinach in olive oil and garlic for a vibrant green addition that’s easy to prepare.
3. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad pairs well, providing a crisp contrast to the creamy lasagna roll ups.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Simply roast these sprouts until crispy; they add a delightful crunch.
5. Cucumber Tomato Salad: A refreshing salad made with diced cucumbers and tomatoes dressed in olive oil and vinegar can brighten up your plate.
6. Quinoa Pilaf: Lightly seasoned quinoa pilaf offers a nutritious side that complements the rich flavors of the pasta.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes when preparing Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta. Here are some common pitfalls and how you can avoid them.

• Not cooking the noodles properly: Overcooking or undercooking the lasagna noodles can lead to a mushy or tough dish. Follow package directions closely for perfect al dente noodles.
• Ignoring the filling consistency: If the filling is too thick, it won’t spread easily. Add additional ricotta until you achieve a smooth, spreadable texture.
• Skipping the béchamel sauce: The creamy béchamel is essential for moisture and flavor. Don’t skip this step; it brings everything together beautifully.
• Making uneven rolls: If your lasagna rolls are uneven in size, they will cook inconsistently. Aim for uniform portions of filling on each noodle before rolling.
• Not letting it rest before serving: Cutting into the lasagna roll ups immediately can cause them to fall apart. Allow them to rest for a few minutes after baking for better presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta

• Wrap individual roll ups tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking regularly.
• Stovetop: Heat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta gluten-free?

You can easily make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free lasagna noodles available at most grocery stores.

Can I prepare Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble them a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

If you’re looking for an alternative, try cottage cheese or a plant-based ricotta made from nuts or tofu.

How long do Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta last in the freezer?

They can last up to three months when stored properly in freezer-safe containers.

Final Thoughts

These Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta are not only delicious but also versatile. They offer a unique twist on traditional lasagna that celebrates fall flavors. Feel free to customize the filling with other vegetables or cheeses based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy its comforting goodness!