Fall is the perfect season for gathering in the kitchen and creating heartwarming dishes that evoke the cozy ambiance we all love. Our Classic Butternut Squash Lasagna is a delightful twist on a traditional favorite, combining the sweetness of butternut squash with the savory goodness of cheese and herbs. This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of family bonding, creativity, and the comforting flavors of autumn.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Servings: 6-8
- Skill Level: Intermediate
Ingredients
- 1 large butternut squash, peeled and thinly sliced
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cups milk
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh sage leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Cook the lasagna noodles in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, until golden.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens and is smooth. Add nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Spread a thin layer of the béchamel sauce over the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Place a layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce. Add a layer of butternut squash slices, followed by dollops of ricotta cheese, a sprinkle of mozzarella, and Parmesan.
- Repeat the layers, finishing with a hearty layer of cheese on top.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Allow the lasagna to cool for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh sage leaves if desired.
Helpful Tips
For a twist, add a layer of sautéed spinach or mushrooms in between the layers. If you’re short on time, use pre-cooked lasagna noodles. Make sure to slice the butternut squash thinly to ensure it cooks through perfectly.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also freeze this lasagna for up to 3 months; just be sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.
Pairings
This lasagna pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad and a glass of chilled white wine, such as a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. For a non-alcoholic option, try it with a refreshing glass of sparkling apple cider.
We hope this Classic Butternut Squash Lasagna brings warmth and joy to your table. Don’t forget to share your beautiful creations on Instagram using #ZynahzRecipes or tag us directly at @Zynahz. Visit our website at Zynahz to leave your feedback, and be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest recipes and updates. Follow us on social media to stay connected and inspired in the kitchen!
