Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A beautiful, elegant take on classic lasagna.
• Roasted butternut squash adds natural sweetness and depth.
• Individual roll ups make for easy serving and portion control.
• Can be made vegetarian or with turkey slices for a heartier version.
• Comforting, cheesy, and perfect for family meals or entertaining.

Ingredients

3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1 butternut squash (2 pounds), halved lengthwise, seeds removed
2 onions, diced
¼ cup fresh sage leaves, chopped
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 jalapeno, diced (seeds optional)
2 jars pasta sauce (700 ml each, homemade or store-bought)
1 box lasagna riccia sheets (454 g, about 18 sheets)
Olive oil cooking spray
¼ cup butter (plus more for buttering the baking dish)
¼ cup all-purpose flour
2 ½ cups whole milk, warm
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
1 ½ cups whole-milk ricotta cheese
3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided, plus more for serving)
14 turkey deli slices (optional)

For serving (optional):
Good quality olive oil
Chiles
Chopped parsley
Grated Parmesan cheese

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place butternut squash halves on a baking sheet, drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast for 40–45 minutes until tender. Scoop out flesh and mash or puree.
2. In a skillet, heat remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, sage, and jalapeno, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 6–8 minutes. Mix with mashed squash, season to taste, and set aside.
3. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to form a roux, then slowly add warm milk, whisking constantly until smooth. Stir in thyme, season with salt and pepper, and cook until slightly thickened (5–7 minutes).
4. Cook lasagna sheets according to package directions. Drain and lay flat on a lightly oiled surface to prevent sticking.
5. Spread a thin layer of the squash mixture and ricotta on each lasagna sheet. If using, layer with a slice of turkey. Roll up each sheet and place seam-side down in a buttered baking dish.
6. Pour half the pasta sauce over the bottom of the dish. Arrange roll ups on top, cover with remaining sauce, then pour béchamel evenly over the top.
7. Sprinkle mozzarella and half the Parmesan cheese over the roll ups.
8. Cover loosely with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake an additional 15 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
9. Serve hot, garnished with parsley, chiles, olive oil drizzle, and extra Parmesan if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 servings (18 roll ups).
Preparation time: 40 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 55 minutes

Variations

• Add spinach or kale to the squash mixture for extra greens.
• Use béchamel alone instead of tomato sauce for a white lasagna version.
• Make it vegan by using dairy-free ricotta, plant-based milk, and vegan cheese.
• Add nutmeg to the béchamel for a classic Italian flavor note.

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or in the microwave for smaller portions.
• Freeze unbaked roll ups tightly wrapped for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra time as needed.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the roll ups a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Do I have to use lasagna riccia sheets?

No, regular lasagna sheets work as well, though the curled edges help hold in the filling.

Can I skip the béchamel sauce?

Yes, but it adds richness and creaminess. Without it, the dish will be more tomato-forward.

How do I keep the lasagna sheets from sticking?

Drain and lay them flat on parchment or lightly oiled foil after boiling.

Can I roast the squash ahead of time?

Yes, roast and mash the squash up to 2 days in advance. Store in the fridge until ready to use.

What cheeses can I substitute for mozzarella?

Fontina, provolone, or Gruyère all work well.

Can I make this spicy?

Keep the jalapeno seeds or add red pepper flakes for more heat.

Is there a gluten-free option?

Use gluten-free lasagna sheets and substitute flour with a gluten-free alternative in the béchamel.

How do I prevent watery lasagna roll ups?

Be sure the squash is well roasted and not watery. Let it drain a bit before mixing with the filling.

What can I serve with these roll ups?

A simple green salad and crusty bread pair perfectly with this dish.

Conclusion

Butternut squash lasagna roll ups are a cozy, flavorful dish that combines creamy squash, herbs, and cheese with tender pasta. With their individual portions and beautiful presentation, they’re perfect for family dinners or festive gatherings. This recipe is hearty, adaptable, and sure to impress at the table.

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