Butternut Squash Lasagna Recipes Vegetarian and Delicious Ideas

Butternut squash lasagna is a delightful twist on the classic Italian favorite, perfect for vegetarians and anyone craving a hearty, comforting meal. This dish layers tender sheets of pasta with creamy butternut squash, savory ricotta, and a luscious béchamel sauce, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

The natural sweetness of the roasted squash pairs beautifully with fragrant sage and nutty parmesan, making each bite a celebration of fall’s best produce. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy family dinner, this butternut squash lasagna recipe brings warmth and wholesome goodness to your table.

Vegetarian-friendly and packed with nutrients, this lasagna is a fantastic way to incorporate more veggies into your diet without sacrificing taste. Plus, it’s easy to prepare ahead of time, making it an ideal dish for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Ready to impress your dinner guests with a unique, delicious meal? Let’s dive into the recipe and explore why this butternut squash lasagna will become a new favorite in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian butternut squash lasagna is a perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and sweet flavors that comfort the soul. Here’s why it’s a must-try:

• Nutritious and filling: Packed with vitamins A and C from butternut squash, plus protein from ricotta and mozzarella.
• Vegetarian-friendly: No meat needed, making it ideal for plant-based diets.
• Flavorful layers: Roasting the squash enhances its natural sweetness, complemented by herbs like sage and thyme.
• Make-ahead friendly: Prepare in advance and bake when ready for a stress-free meal.
• Comfort food with a twist: Traditional lasagna gets an autumnal makeover perfect for fall and winter dinners.

Ingredients

• 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 pounds), peeled, seeded, and cubed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried sage or 1 tablespoon fresh sage, finely chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 9-12 no-boil lasagna noodles
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for topping
• 3 cups béchamel sauce (see instructions for homemade)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• Fresh thyme leaves, optional for garnish

Equipment

• Baking sheet for roasting the squash
• Large skillet for sautéing onions and garlic
• Large mixing bowl for combining cheeses and squash
• 9×13 inch baking dish for assembling the lasagna
• Medium saucepan for béchamel sauce
• Whisk for stirring sauce
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Aluminum foil for covering lasagna while baking

Instructions

1. Roast the butternut squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed squash with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, pepper, and sage. Spread evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and caramelized. Remove and set aside to cool.
2. Prepare the béchamel sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Whisk in 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden. Gradually whisk in 3 cups warm milk, stirring constantly until thickened (about 5-7 minutes). Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Remove from heat.
3. Sauté aromatics: In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
4. Mix filling: In a large bowl, combine roasted butternut squash, ricotta cheese, half the mozzarella, Parmesan, sautéed onions and garlic. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
5. Assemble the lasagna: Lightly oil the baking dish. Spread a thin layer of béchamel on the bottom. Layer 3-4 lasagna noodles to cover. Spread one-third of the squash mixture over noodles, then layer béchamel sauce. Repeat layers two more times finishing with noodles topped with béchamel and remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
6. Bake: Cover with aluminum foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.
7. Rest and serve: Let the lasagna cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

For a vegan version, substitute ricotta and mozzarella with plant-based cheeses and use a dairy-free milk alternative in the béchamel sauce.

Tip: If you don’t have no-boil noodles, pre-cook regular lasagna noodles until al dente and layer as usual.

Add sautéed spinach or kale between layers for extra greens and nutrients.

For extra depth of flavor, roast a few garlic cloves with the squash.

Try adding a touch of smoked paprika or chili flakes to the béchamel for a subtle smoky or spicy kick.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This butternut squash lasagna pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness. Roasted Brussels sprouts or garlic sautéed green beans also make excellent side dishes.

For a cozy meal, serve with warm crusty bread to soak up any extra béchamel sauce.

If you’re looking to continue your vegetarian meal journey, you might also enjoy our Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe or try the comforting Harvest Hash Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Fall Comfort Food.

For a little appetizer before dinner, check out our Low Fodmap Appetizer Recipes.

Conclusion

Butternut squash lasagna is a wonderful vegetarian dish that combines seasonal flavors with classic Italian comfort food elements. Its creamy texture, balanced sweetness, and rich cheese layers make it a crowd-pleaser for any dinner table.

This recipe offers a nutritious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for fall and winter, but delicious enough to enjoy year-round.

With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner cooks can master this dish. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite vegetables and herbs.

Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this butternut squash lasagna promises warmth, flavor, and a touch of elegance. Happy cooking!

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