Butternut Squash Spinach Lasagna Rollups

Lasagna is a classic comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table, and with these Butternut Squash Spinach Lasagna Rollups, you get a fresh, vibrant twist on the traditional dish. Combining the natural sweetness of butternut squash with the earthiness of spinach and the creamy richness of ricotta and mozzarella cheeses, this recipe is both hearty and wholesome. The rollup format makes serving easy and adds a fun presentation that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. If you’re looking for a vegetable-forward, cheesy, and utterly delicious meal, these rollups are a must-try.

Why This Recipe Is Reliable

This Butternut Squash Spinach Lasagna Rollups recipe stands out because it balances taste, texture, and nutrition beautifully. The butternut squash is roasted to bring out its natural sweetness, which complements the savory cheeses and spinach perfectly. Using fresh spinach keeps the dish vibrant and packed with nutrients, while the lasagna noodles provide the perfect structure without overpowering the filling. The recipe uses garlic and onion powders for a subtle flavor boost that doesn’t overwhelm the other ingredients. Plus, it’s easy to prepare ahead and bake when ready, making it ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep. Every step is thoughtfully designed to guarantee consistently delicious results.

What You’ll Gather

• 12 lasagna noodles – regular or no-boil, depending on your preference
• 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed – for that sweet, creamy base
• 1 cup fresh spinach – packed with vibrant color and nutrients
• 1 cup ricotta cheese – adds creaminess and richness
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – for meltiness and stretch
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – gives a sharp, savory kick
• 1 egg – binds the filling together
• 2 cups marinara sauce – choose your favorite brand or homemade
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – for subtle depth
• 1 teaspoon onion powder – enhances flavor complexity
• Salt and pepper to taste – essential seasoning
• Olive oil for drizzling – adds richness and helps roasting

Gear Checklist

• Large pot for boiling noodles – to cook noodles al dente
• Baking sheet – for roasting butternut squash
• Large mixing bowl – to combine filling ingredients
• 9×13-inch baking dish – perfect size for layering rollups
• Blender or food processor (optional) – if you prefer a smoother squash filling
• Spatula or spoon – to spread sauce and roll up noodles
• Aluminum foil – to cover while baking

How to Prepare Butternut Squash Spinach Lasagna Rollups

Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the peeled and cubed butternut squash with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread the cubes evenly on a baking sheet and roast for about 20-25 minutes until tender and caramelized at the edges. This roasting enhances the natural sweetness and makes the squash easier to mash.

Step 2: Cook the Lasagna Noodles

While the squash roasts, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the lasagna noodles and cook according to package instructions until just al dente. Be careful not to overcook, as the noodles will continue cooking in the oven. Drain and lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel or parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the roasted butternut squash (mash it slightly with a fork or pulse briefly in a food processor if you want it smooth), fresh spinach (chopped finely if desired), ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until well incorporated. The egg helps hold the filling together while baking.

Step 4: Assemble the Rollups

Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of your baking dish. Lay a lasagna noodle flat and spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the filling along one edge. Carefully roll the noodle up to enclose the filling and place it seam side down in the baking dish. Repeat with the remaining noodles and filling, arranging the rollups snugly side by side.

Step 5: Add Sauce and Cheese

Pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the top of the rollups. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over everything for that irresistible golden melt.

Step 6: Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.

Step 7: Serve

Let the rollups rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set and makes slicing easier. Drizzle a little olive oil on top if desired, and pair with a fresh salad or your favorite side.

Budget & Availability Swaps

• If butternut squash is out of season or pricey, substitute with sweet potato or pumpkin cubes.
• Frozen spinach works well if fresh isn’t available—thaw and squeeze out excess water before mixing.
• Use part-skim ricotta or cottage cheese as a lighter alternative to full-fat ricotta.
• Store-bought marinara sauce can be swapped with homemade for a fresher taste or for cost savings.
• Shredded mozzarella can be replaced with provolone or a mild cheddar for a different flavor profile.

Avoid These Traps

• Don’t overcook the lasagna noodles; mushy noodles can make the rollups fall apart.
• Be sure to roast the butternut squash until tender—undercooked squash results in a grainy filling texture.
• Avoid excess moisture in the filling by properly draining spinach and not adding too much sauce inside the rollups.
• Don’t skip resting the rollups after baking; it helps them hold their shape when served.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, place the assembled rollups in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake covered at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes until warmed through.

Quick Q&A

Can I make these rollups ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and assemble the rollups a day in advance. Just cover the baking dish tightly with foil and refrigerate until ready to bake. This makes dinner prep much easier on busy days.

What if I don’t have a food processor?

No worries! You can mash the roasted butternut squash with a fork or potato masher. The filling will still be delicious with a slightly chunkier texture.

Can I add meat to this recipe?

If you prefer a meaty twist, cooked ground chicken or turkey can be mixed into the filling. Just be sure to fully cook the meat before combining it with the other ingredients.

What’s a good side to serve with these rollups?

These Butternut Squash Spinach Lasagna Rollups pair beautifully with a simple green salad or a side of Easy Garlic Bread. For a more substantial meal, consider a bowl of Italian Zucchini Meatball Soup or a cheesy casserole like the Creamy Spinach Zucchini Gnocchi Bake.

What to Make After This

• Creamy Spinach Zucchini Gnocchi Bake – a luscious vegetable-packed pasta bake
• Easy Garlic Bread – perfect for soaking up extra sauce
• Italian Zucchini Meatball Soup – a hearty, comforting soup option

Wrap-Up

This recipe for Butternut Squash Spinach Lasagna Rollups is a wonderful way to enjoy a classic comfort dish with a fresh, wholesome twist. The combination of sweet roasted squash, nutritious spinach, and creamy cheeses wrapped in tender pasta creates a satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a potluck, or meal prepping for the week, these rollups are simple to make and can be customized to fit your tastes. With just a handful of ingredients and some straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious, colorful dish that’s both beautiful and flavorful. Give these rollups a try, and you might just find yourself making them again and again!

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