I learned to make this butternut squash lasagna from my mom, who always knew how to make our family meals special. Growing up, I loved watching her cook, and now I’m excited to carry on that tradition in my kitchen. This recipe is close to my heart and reminds me of family time together.

Making this lasagna for my husband is one of my favorite things to do. He loves the creamy layers of ricotta and the sweet butternut squash. It’s so nice to see him smile when he takes the first bite. This dish is not only tasty but also a way for me to show him I care.

I use just a few simple ingredients, like fresh spinach and mozzarella, to create a healthy meal that’s full of flavor. The mix of creamy cheese and tender squash makes each bite wonderful. Plus, it’s easy to make, so I can enjoy cooking without feeling rushed.

This butternut squash lasagna is my favorite for fall. It has warm flavors that fit the season perfectly. Every time I make it, I feel happy about the memories it brings and the chance to make new ones with my family.

Why you will love this Butternut Squash Lasagna?

You will love this butternut squash lasagna for its wonderful balance of flavors and textures. The sweet, creamy butternut squash perfectly complements the rich ricotta and mozzarella cheeses, creating a satisfying dish that’s both comforting and wholesome. It’s a great way to sneak in vegetables, making it a nutritious choice for the whole family.

Additionally, this lasagna is easy to prepare, allowing you to enjoy a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Its vibrant colors and delicious aroma make it a feast for the senses, and it’s versatile enough to serve at family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again!

Ingredients

• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and sliced thin
• 9 lasagna noodles (no-boil or regular)
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups spinach (fresh or frozen)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cups marinara sauce

How to make Butternut Squash Lasagna

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2:

In a large bowl, mix the sliced butternut squash with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Set aside.

Step 3:

In another bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, spinach, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth.

Step 4:

Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Place 3 lasagna noodles on top. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by half of the butternut squash slices, and a layer of marinara sauce. Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining noodles on top.

Step 5:

Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top layer of noodles. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the sauce.

Step 6:

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Tips for perfect Butternut Squash Lasagna

• Slice Thinly: For even cooking, slice the butternut squash as thinly as possible. A mandoline slicer can help achieve uniform thickness, allowing it to cook through properly.

• Use No-Boil Noodles: Opt for no-boil lasagna noodles to save time and ensure a smoother layering process. They absorb moisture from the sauce and squash as they bake.

• Season the Squash: Don’t skip seasoning the butternut squash. A sprinkle of salt, pepper, and garlic powder enhances its natural sweetness and flavor.

• Mix the Cheese Well: Ensure the ricotta cheese mixture is well combined. This helps distribute flavors evenly throughout the lasagna, making each bite delicious.

• Layer Smartly: Start and end with sauce to keep the noodles moist. Alternate layers of cheese, squash, and sauce for a balanced texture and flavor.

What to pair with Butternut Squash Lasagna?

If you want a great pairing with butternut squash lasagna, a simple green salad is a perfect choice. A mix of arugula, spinach, and romaine with a light dressing adds a fresh crunch to the creamy lasagna. You can also add cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and nuts for extra flavor.

Another good option is garlic bread or crusty bread. The crispy texture and buttery, garlicky taste go well with the rich lasagna. It’s great for soaking up any sauce left on your plate. Together, these sides make a delicious and satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy!

Other Lasagna Variations

Classic Meat Lasagna: Layer ground beef or sausage with marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan. This hearty version is a family favorite, packed with rich flavors.

Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna: Combine fresh spinach with ricotta and mozzarella for a lighter option. Add marinara sauce and herbs for extra taste, making it a great vegetarian dish.

Mushroom Lasagna: Use a mix of sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and herbs for a savory filling. Pair it with béchamel sauce and cheese for a creamy, earthy flavor.

Pesto Chicken Lasagna: Layer cooked chicken with pesto, ricotta, and mozzarella. This variation offers a fresh, herby taste and is perfect for those who love the flavors of basil and garlic.

Seafood Lasagna: Use shrimp, crab, or scallops layered with a creamy white sauce, spinach, and cheese. This luxurious option is perfect for special occasions and offers a unique twist on traditional lasagna.

How to store

To store lasagna, let it cool to room temperature before placing it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to cover the container tightly to prevent it from drying out.

If you want to store lasagna for a longer time, freeze it. Cut it into individual portions or keep it whole, and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, or use a freezer-safe container. Frozen lasagna can last for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in the oven or microwave until heated through.

FAQ

Can I use regular noodles instead of no-boil?

• Yes, you can use regular lasagna noodles, but you’ll need to cook them according to package instructions before assembling the lasagna.

How long does lasagna take to bake?

• Lasagna typically takes about 30-45 minutes to bake at 375°F (190°C), depending on the recipe and whether it’s covered.

Can I make lasagna ahead of time?

• Yes, you can assemble it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

How do I prevent lasagna from being watery?

• To avoid watery lasagna, drain excess moisture from vegetables use less sauce, and let the lasagna rest for a bit after baking.

What’s the best way to reheat lasagna?

• For best results, reheat lasagna in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, though you can also use the microwave.

Can I add different vegetables?

• Absolutely! You can add vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.

How do I know when the lasagna is done?

• Lasagna is done when the cheese is bubbly and golden, and the edges are hot and slightly browned.

Can I use different types of cheese?

• Yes, you can mix different cheeses like mozzarella, ricotta, provolone, or feta to create your flavor combination.

Conclusion

Butternut squash lasagna is a delicious and nutritious twist on a classic dish. Its creamy layers of ricotta, fresh spinach, and sweet butternut squash create a satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy. Whether you serve it for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this lasagna is sure to impress.

Butternut Squash Lasagna

Recipe by Wasian CookeryCourse: MainCuisine: ItalianDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

20

minutes

Cooking time

45

minutes

Total time

1

hour 

5

minutes

This butternut squash lasagna is a comforting and nutritious twist on the classic recipe. With layers of creamy ricotta, sweet butternut squash, and fresh spinach, all topped with melted mozzarella, it’s a perfect meal for fall.

Ingredients

• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and sliced thin

• 9 lasagna noodles (no-boil or regular)

• 2 cups ricotta cheese

• 1 egg

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 cups spinach (fresh or frozen)

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 cups marinara sauce

Directions

• Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Prepare the Butternut Squash: In a large bowl, mix the sliced butternut squash with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Set aside.
• Mix the Cheese Filling: In another bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, spinach, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth.
• Assemble the Lasagna: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Place 3 lasagna noodles on top. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by half of the butternut squash slices, and a layer of marinara sauce. Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining noodles on top.
• Top with Cheese: Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top layer of noodles. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the sauce.
• Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
• Cool and Serve: Let the lasagna cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

• For even cooking, slice the butternut squash as thinly as possible. A mandoline slicer can help achieve uniform thickness, allowing it to cook through properly.