Few dishes bring as much warmth and comfort to a family meal as a rich, indulgent Three-Cheese Butternut Squash Lasagna. This delightful recipe is perfect for chilly evenings, offering a harmonious blend of sweet roasted butternut squash, gooey mozzarella, creamy ricotta, and savory parmesan. Gather your loved ones around the table and share the joy of this home-cooked masterpiece, a testament to creativity and family bonding in every bite.

Recipe Summary

Prep Time:30 minutes
Cook Time:1 hour
Total Time:1 hour 30 minutes
Servings:8
Skill Level:Medium

Ingredients

  • 1 large butternut squash, peeled and cubed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 9 lasagna noodles
  • 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried sage
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread out evenly on the prepared baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and lightly browned.
  3. Meanwhile, cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  4. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella, 1/2 cup of parmesan, thyme, sage, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  5. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom.
  6. Layer with three lasagna noodles. Spread one-third of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by one-third of the roasted butternut squash.
  7. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of marinara sauce topped with the remaining mozzarella and parmesan.
  8. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  9. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Helpful Tips

For a quicker version, use pre-cubed butternut squash available at most grocery stores. You can also add layers of spinach or kale for extra nutrition and flavor. If you prefer a meatier version, add layers of cooked Italian sausage or ground turkey.

Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This lasagna also freezes well. Simply wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to enjoy.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you can’t find butternut squash, feel free to use another type of squash like acorn or delicata. For a nut-free alternative, swap out the ricotta cheese with a ricotta-style blend made from tofu. Use gluten-free lasagna noodles if you need a gluten-free option.

Pairings

This Three-Cheese Butternut Squash Lasagna pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad with vinaigrette and a glass of crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. For dessert, consider a simple apple crisp or a slice of pumpkin pie to keep the autumnal theme going.

Gather your family around and indulge in this delicious Three-Cheese Butternut Squash Lasagna. We’d love to see your creations! Share your photos using #ZynahzRecipes or tag us on Instagram. Don’t forget to leave your feedback on our website https://www.zynahz.com/, subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates, and follow us on social media for more delicious recipes and inspiration.

Last Update: November 28, 2024