As the leaves turn golden and the air gets crisp, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a homemade meal shared with loved ones. Our Kale and Butternut Squash Lasagna is a culinary masterpiece that marries the earthy richness of kale with the sweet, velvety notes of butternut squash. It’s an ode to fall, a celebration of wholesome ingredients, and a perfect dish for family gatherings. At Zynahz, we’re passionate about bringing you recipes that not only nourish your body but also warm your heart, inspiring you to create beautiful memories around the dinner table.
Recipe Summary
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 80 minutes
- Servings: 6-8
- Skill Level: Intermediate
Ingredients
- 1 butternut squash, peeled and sliced thinly
- 1 bunch of kale, stems removed and chopped
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish with a bit of olive oil.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the lasagna noodles until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Add in the chopped kale and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper.
- In the prepared baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Lay down a layer of lasagna noodles, followed by a layer of sliced butternut squash, a layer of cooked kale, a layer of ricotta cheese, and a sprinkling of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Repeat the layers, ending with a final layer of marinara sauce and cheeses on top.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden.
- Let the lasagna cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Helpful Tips
- To make this dish vegetarian-friendly, consider using a meatless marinara sauce or adding sautéed mushrooms for an extra layer of flavor.
- Pre-cook the butternut squash slices slightly in the microwave if you prefer a softer texture.
- You can prepare this lasagna a day ahead and refrigerate it before baking. Just allow additional baking time if cooking straight from the fridge.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you can’t find butternut squash, sweet potatoes are a great alternative. For those who prefer a different green, spinach can be used in place of kale.
Pairings
This lasagna pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette and a crusty loaf of garlic bread. For a delightful beverage, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red like Pinot Noir complements the flavors wonderfully.
Conclusion
We hope this Kale and Butternut Squash Lasagna brings joy and warmth to your family gatherings. Share your beautiful creations with us using #ZynahzRecipes or tag us on Instagram. We love to see your culinary adventures! Don’t forget to leave your feedback on www.zynahz.com. Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates and follow Zynahz on social media for more inspiring recipes. Happy cooking!