Butternut Squash Lasagna is a delicious twist on a classic comfort dish, combining roasted squash, creamy cheeses, fresh greens, and aromatic herbs. By replacing traditional pasta sheets with butternut squash, this dish becomes a healthier and flavorful alternative that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or meal prep, this guide will help you create a lasagna that’s both nutritious and indulgent.
Looking for more warm, comforting meals? Explore our Skillet Cornbread Recipe for a perfect side dish to pair with your lasagna!
Whether you’re looking for a nutrient-packed meal, a gluten-free lasagna alternative, or a seasonal fall dish, this recipe is a must-try!
🥗 Why You’ll Love Butternut Squash Lasagna
1️⃣ A Nutritious Alternative to Traditional Lasagna
Replacing pasta with butternut squash makes this dish lower in carbs and higher in essential nutrients.
✔️ Rich in Vitamin A & C – Supports immunity and promotes healthy skin.
✔️ Packed with Fiber – Aids digestion and keeps you feeling full longer.
✔️ Healthy Fats & Protein – Ricotta and mozzarella add satisfying creaminess without excessive calories.
💡 Looking for more nutritious meal ideas? Check out our guide on Is Caesar Salad with Chicken Good for You? for a breakdown of healthy, protein-packed salads!
2️⃣ A Perfectly Balanced Flavor Profile
Butternut Squash Lasagna delivers a harmonious mix of flavors that differ from the classic tomato-based lasagna:
✔️ Natural Sweetness – Roasting caramelizes the squash’s sugars, enhancing its flavor.
✔️ Creamy & Savory Layers – Ricotta and mozzarella create an indulgent, creamy texture.
✔️ Aromatic Herbs & Spices – Sage, thyme, and nutmeg add warmth and depth.
💡 Tip: A sprinkle of chili flakes adds a gentle heat to balance the sweetness!
3️⃣ Easily Adaptable for Any Diet
This recipe is highly versatile and can be customized to suit various dietary needs:
✔️ Vegan? Swap out dairy for cashew cream, almond ricotta, and nutritional yeast.
✔️ Gluten-Free? Butternut squash replaces pasta—no need for modifications!
✔️ High-Protein? Add cooked chicken, turkey, or tofu for an extra boost.
💡 Tip: Make it even heartier by layering in mushrooms or roasted chickpeas!
4️⃣ Seasonal Comfort Food at Its Best
This fall-inspired dish is perfect for cozy, cold-weather meals.
✔️ Peak Fall Produce – Butternut squash is freshest and most affordable in autumn.
✔️ Festive & Elegant – A great holiday dish for Thanksgiving or family gatherings.
✔️ Warm & Satisfying – A bubbling, cheesy, oven-baked lasagna is the perfect comfort meal.
💡 Tip: Pair it with garlic bread and a crisp fall salad for a complete meal!
🛒 Ingredients for Butternut Squash Lasagna
For the Squash Layer:
✅ 1 large butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and sliced thin (or cubed for purée)
✅ 2 tbsp olive oil
✅ ½ tsp salt
✅ ¼ tsp black pepper
For the Cheese Layers:
✅ 2 cups ricotta cheese (or dairy-free alternative)
✅ 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or vegan mozzarella)
✅ ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for vegan option)
✅ 1 large egg (optional, for structure)
For the Greens:
✅ 3 cups fresh spinach or kale, sautéed until wilted
For Seasoning & Herbs:
✅ 1 tsp ground nutmeg
✅ 1 tbsp fresh sage (or 1 tsp dried)
✅ 1 tbsp fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried)
Optional Crunchy Topping:
✅ 1 cup breadcrumbs mixed with 1 tbsp melted butter (or crushed nuts for a gluten-free version)
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Guide to Making Butternut Squash Lasagna
Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash
Roasting enhances the sweetness and depth of flavor in the squash.
1️⃣ Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2️⃣ Toss thinly sliced or cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3️⃣ Spread in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
💡 Tip: For a smoother texture, blend the roasted squash into a purée before layering.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
1️⃣ In a medium bowl, mix ricotta, nutmeg, sage, and thyme.
2️⃣ Stir in Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for a vegan option).
3️⃣ If using, add one egg to help bind the layers together.
💡 Tip: For extra creaminess, add ½ cup Greek yogurt to the ricotta mixture!
Step 3: Sauté the Greens
1️⃣ Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2️⃣ Add spinach or kale, stirring until wilted (3–4 minutes).
3️⃣ Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess moisture.
💡 Tip: Press the greens with a spoon to extract extra water, preventing soggy lasagna.
Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna
📌 Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and layer the ingredients as follows:
✔️ Base Layer – Spread a thin layer of roasted squash purée or slices.
✔️ Cheese Layer – Spoon the ricotta mixture evenly over the squash.
✔️ Greens Layer – Add sautéed spinach or kale for a nutritious boost.
✔️ Mozzarella Layer – Sprinkle shredded mozzarella for extra creaminess.
✔️ Repeat Layers – Continue layering until all ingredients are used.
✔️ Final Topping – Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top.
💡 Tip: Add extra mozzarella on top for a bubbly, golden crust!
Step 5: Bake the Lasagna
🔥 Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes.
🔥 Remove foil and bake for 15 more minutes to crisp the top.
🔥 Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing—this helps the layers set.
💡 Tip: Want an extra crispy top? Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end!
🔥 Tips for the Perfect Butternut Squash Lasagna
✔️ Slice the Squash Evenly – Ensures even cooking and a sturdy lasagna structure.
✔️ Drain the Greens Well – Prevents watery layers that can make the lasagna too soft.
✔️ Experiment with Flavors – Try adding rosemary, caramelized onions, or chili flakes!
✔️ Make It Ahead – Assemble in advance and refrigerate before baking.
🍽️ What to Serve with Butternut Squash Lasagna
Butternut Squash Lasagna is a rich, creamy, and satisfying dish, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate the meal to a restaurant-quality experience. To balance its indulgent flavors, opt for fresh, light, and complementary sides that enhance the dish without overwhelming it.
🥗 1. Crisp Green Salad – A Fresh & Light Contrast
Pairing your lasagna with a vibrant, crisp salad provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy, cheesy layers. A well-balanced salad introduces acidity and crunch, cutting through the richness and enhancing each bite.
✅ Caesar Salad – The tangy Caesar dressing, crunchy croutons, and salty Parmesan beautifully complement the lasagna’s natural sweetness. Try a Chicken Caesar Salad for added protein.
✅ Arugula & Parmesan Salad – Peppery arugula, shaved Parmesan, and a lemon vinaigrette add a bright, zesty contrast. Toss in some cherry tomatoes and walnuts for extra texture and flavor.
✅ Spinach & Pomegranate Salad – Fresh spinach leaves, juicy pomegranate seeds, crumbled feta, and a balsamic glaze bring a sweet-savory balance that pairs beautifully with butternut squash.
💡 Pro Tip: A citrus-based dressing (like lemon or orange vinaigrette) works best with butternut squash dishes, enhancing their natural sweetness while providing a refreshing counterpoint to the creamy cheese layers.
🍞 2. Garlic Bread – The Ultimate Comfort Pairing
Few things go better with lasagna than warm, buttery garlic bread. It’s perfect for soaking up the creamy, cheesy layers while adding a crispy texture to contrast the soft squash.
✅ Classic Garlic Bread – A golden, crispy baguette brushed with garlic butter, parsley, and Parmesan is an unbeatable side.
✅ Rosemary Focaccia – This aromatic Italian bread adds an herby touch that enhances the nutmeg, sage, and thyme in the lasagna.
✅ Whole-Grain Bread – If you prefer a healthier option, a slice of whole-grain bread with olive oil and sea salt offers a nutty, hearty contrast.
💡 Pro Tip: For extra flavor, roast some garlic and mix it with butter before spreading it on the bread—it creates a deeper, more caramelized garlic flavor that pairs wonderfully with butternut squash.
🥣 3. A Warm, Cozy Soup – Perfect for Chilly Days
A bowl of comforting soup makes a fantastic starter or side dish, complementing the lasagna’s richness without overpowering it.
✅ Tomato Basil Soup – A smooth, velvety tomato soup with basil and a hint of cream balances the sweetness of the butternut squash while adding a touch of acidity.
✅ Roasted Red Pepper Soup – Slightly smoky and mildly sweet, this soup pairs well with the earthy herbs in the lasagna.
✅ Minestrone Soup – A light, veggie-packed Italian soup filled with beans, zucchini, and carrots is a nutritious and flavorful pairing.
💡 Pro Tip: Keep the soup on the lighter side to avoid an overly heavy meal—broth-based soups work best.
🥦 4. Roasted or Steamed Vegetables – A Healthy Side
Roasted vegetables add an earthy depth to your meal while providing extra fiber and nutrients.
✅ Brussels Sprouts & Pecans – Roasted Brussels sprouts with toasted pecans and a drizzle of balsamic glaze create a sweet, nutty, and slightly tangy side dish.
✅ Garlic-Roasted Asparagus – Light, crisp asparagus roasted with olive oil, garlic, and lemon zest adds brightness to the meal.
✅ Honey-Glazed Carrots – Sweet, tender carrots enhance the butternut squash’s natural caramelized flavors while providing a slight crunch.
💡 Pro Tip: For extra flavor, roast your vegetables with a sprinkle of Parmesan and crushed red pepper flakes for a savory-spicy kick.
💡 Want more meal inspiration? Try our Best Side Dishes for Butternut Squash Lasagna for even more delicious ideas!
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
1️⃣ Can I Freeze Butternut Squash Lasagna?
✅ Yes! Freeze fully assembled, unbaked lasagna for up to 3 months.
2️⃣ How Long Does It Stay Fresh?
✅ Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days.
3️⃣ Can I Make It Ahead of Time?
✅ Absolutely! Assemble the lasagna a day in advance and refrigerate until baking.
✨ Final Thoughts: A Must-Try Comfort Dish!
Butternut Squash Lasagna is more than just a recipe—it’s a warm, comforting, and nutritious twist on a beloved classic. With its naturally sweet roasted squash, creamy layers of ricotta and mozzarella, and fragrant herbs, this dish delivers incredible depth of flavor while offering a healthier, wholesome alternative to traditional lasagna.
Whether you’re looking for:
✔️ A lighter, low-carb alternative to pasta-based lasagna
✔️ A seasonal fall favorite that highlights fresh, in-season ingredients
✔️ A family-friendly comfort meal packed with nutrients
✔️ A vegetarian-friendly dish with bold, satisfying flavors
✔️ A make-ahead recipe that’s perfect for meal prepping and busy weeknights
This Butternut Squash Lasagna checks all the boxes! It’s creamy, cheesy, nourishing, and packed with the warm, cozy flavors of fall. Best of all, it’s incredibly versatile and easy to customize—whether you want a gluten-free, vegan, or protein-packed version, this dish can be adapted to fit your dietary needs without sacrificing taste or texture.
💡 Pro Tip: Serve it with a simple green salad, a glass of wine, or a slice of warm garlic bread for the ultimate comfort meal experience!
🔥 Are you ready to experience the rich, comforting flavors of Butternut Squash Lasagna? Gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy a homemade dish that’s both healthy and indulgent! 🍽️😊