As autumn’s chill settles in, the craving for warm, hearty meals only deepens. Picture this: the comforting aroma of roasted garlic mingling with the sweet notes of butternut squash, enveloped in tender lasagna noodles and layered with a creamy pesto sauce. Sounds enticing, right? I discovered this fabulous recipe for Roasted Garlic Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll-Ups with Sweet Italian Sausage during a cozy weekend cooking session, where I wanted nothing more than to create something nourishing yet indulgent.
This dish is not just about the layers but also about the joy of cooking and sharing a comforting meal with loved ones. Easy to customize according to your taste—whether you prefer spicy turkey sausage or a vegetarian version packed with greens—these roll-ups boast a deliciously rich flavor profile that will impress even the choosiest eaters. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into this delightful fall-inspired feast!
Why love Roasted Garlic Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll-Ups?
Comforting nourishment: This dish brings a warm, cozy feeling to your table, perfect for those chilly fall evenings.
Rich and creamy: The blend of roasted garlic, butternut squash, and pesto cream sauce creates an irresistible flavor experience.
Customizable options: Choose between sweet Italian sausage or a vegetarian version without sacrificing taste or satisfaction.
Easy weeknight meal: Prep ahead of time or make it on a busy night; it’s a fulfilling option for family dinners.
Crowd pleaser: The delightful aroma and generous portions make this a hit at any gathering or holiday feast!
Roasted Garlic Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll-Ups Ingredients
For the Roll-Ups
• Lasagna Noodles – A sturdy base for the roll-ups; gluten-free noodles work perfectly too.
• Sweet Italian Turkey Sausage – Offers savory protein; feel free to swap with pork sausage or omit for a vegetarian twist.
• Olive Oil – Helps prevent noodles from sticking while adding a touch of richness.
• Butternut Squash – The hero of the filling, contributing both sweetness and creaminess; pumpkin is a great substitute if you’re feeling adventurous.
• Roasted Garlic – Adds a sweet, robust flavor; if pressed for time, fresh garlic can easily be used instead.
• Ricotta Cheese – Ensures a creamy filling; cottage cheese is a wonderful low-fat alternative.
• Milk – Adjusts the filling’s texture; pick any type, dairy or non-dairy, to suit your needs.
• Kosher Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for enhancing flavors; adjust to your taste preference.
For the Cream Sauce
• Fresh Grated Parmesan Cheese – Elevates the flavor and acts as a hearty topping; aged Parmesan offers a richer taste.
• Prepared Basil Pesto – Infuses a herby goodness into the sauce; homemade pesto brings a fresh touch you won’t want to miss.
• Butter – Adds extra richness to the creamy sauce.
• Heavy Cream – Creates a luscious, indulgent texture; swap it with half-and-half for a lighter version.
Create your own masterpiece of Roasted Garlic Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll-Ups with Sweet Italian Sausage and Pesto Cream Sauce with these delightful ingredients!
How to Make Roasted Garlic Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll-Ups
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Prepare the Filling: Begin by roasting garlic and cooking butternut squash ahead of time. Preheat your oven to 350°F to ensure it’s ready for baking!
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Cook the Noodles: Boil lasagna noodles for 1 minute less than the package directions; drizzle with olive oil to prevent them from sticking together. Drain and set aside.
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Brown the Sausage: In a skillet, brown the sweet Italian turkey sausage until juicy and delicious, then set aside.
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Blend the Filling: In a blender, mix the cooked squash, roasted garlic, Parmesan, ricotta, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
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Make the Cream Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter, then add milk, cream, and pesto; bring to a lovely simmer. Stir in the remaining Parmesan and adjust thickness with reserved pasta water.
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Assemble the Roll-Ups: Spread the flavorful squash mixture onto each noodle, sprinkle with sausage, and roll them up tightly.
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Layer in the Dish: Spread 1/3 of the pesto sauce at the bottom of a baking dish, arrange roll-ups seam-side down, and cover with the remaining sauce.
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Bake to Perfection: Cover and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until everything is heated through and bubbling with deliciousness.
Optional: Garnish with fresh basil or extra Parmesan before serving for a delightful finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Roasted Garlic Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll-Ups Variations
Feel free to get creative with these delightful roll-ups that allow your taste buds to explore new flavor adventures!
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Turkey or Pork: Swap turkey sausage for savory pork sausage for a richer taste and a familiar comfort food vibe.
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Vegetarian Delight: Omit the sausage entirely and add sautéed mushrooms and spinach for hearty, nutritious fillings without meat.
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Pumpkin Twist: Substitute butternut squash with pumpkin for a different but equally comforting flavor that’s perfect for the fall.
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Creamier Cheese: Use mascarpone instead of ricotta for an ultra-creamy filling that oozes richness, elevating each bite to pure bliss.
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Whole Wheat Pasta: Use whole wheat lasagna noodles for an added fiber boost, embracing a heartier texture without skimping on flavor.
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Heat it Up: Add red pepper flakes to the filling or the cream sauce for a touch of spice, giving your roll-ups a satisfying kick.
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Herb Infusion: Mix fresh herbs like thyme or sage into the filling for an aromatic depth that complements the butternut squash beautifully.
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Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pine nuts over the top before serving for an extra layer of crunch that contrasts with the creamy sauce.
Make Ahead Options
These Roasted Garlic Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll-Ups with Sweet Italian Sausage and Pesto Cream Sauce are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the filling—including roasted garlic and butternut squash—up to 3 days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The lasagna noodles can also be cooked ahead of time and stored with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking, allowing for easy assembly later. When ready to serve, simply fill the noodles, roll them up, and layer in the baking dish with the sauce before baking. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious, homemade meal on busy weeknights with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Roasted Garlic Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll-Ups?
Create a warm and inviting meal that delights the senses and complements the flavors of this creamy, comforting dish.
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Simple Green Salad: A refreshing mix of greens adds a crisp texture and balances the richness of the lasagna. Top with a light vinaigrette for zing.
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Garlic Bread: Perfect for sopping up leftover pesto cream sauce, this cheesy, buttery bread will satisfy your cravings and enhance the cozy vibe.
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Sautéed Greens: Whether it’s spinach, kale, or Swiss chard, sautéed greens provide a nice pop of color and an extra nutritional punch, harmonizing with the flavors.
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Roasted Vegetables: A combination of seasonal vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and beets adds a hearty side that brightens your plate and flavor profile.
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Creamy Polenta: This silky side dish complements the Italian-inspired flavors while delivering an indulgent, buttery mouthfeel that pairs beautifully with the lasagna.
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Crisp White Wine: A glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc provides a refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy roll-ups, enhancing the overall dining experience.
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Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, treat yourself to a light and airy chocolate mousse that offers a sweet finish to the meal, leaving everyone happily satisfied.
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Apple Crisp: Embrace the fall flavors with a warm apple crisp, its cinnamon and nutmeg notes echoing the season in a perfect way to close the meal.
Storage Tips for Roasted Garlic Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll-Ups
Fridge: Store leftover roll-ups in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure they’re covered with sauce to keep them moist.
Freezer: Freeze assembled roll-ups in a tightly sealed container or wrap individually in plastic wrap. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, remove from the fridge or freezer and place in a preheated oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. Add a splash of milk if they seem dry.
Make-Ahead: The filling can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days, making it easy to assemble the Roasted Garlic Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll-Ups when ready to cook.
Expert Tips for Roasted Garlic Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll-Ups
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh butternut squash and garlic for the best flavor. Avoid pre-packaged versions which may lack sweetness.
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Avoid Overcooked Noodles: Cook lasagna noodles just under package instructions to prevent them from becoming too soft, which could lead to broken roll-ups.
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Balance the Pesto Sauce: If the pesto cream sauce is too thick, use reserved pasta water to adjust consistency—this will help ensure the Roasted Garlic Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll-Ups are perfectly creamy.
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Layer Wisely: When assembling your roll-ups, spread the filling evenly and don’t overstuff. This will help them maintain their shape during baking.
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Let it Rest: After baking, let the lasagna roll-ups rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set and makes them easier to slice and serve.
Roasted Garlic Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll-Ups with Sweet Italian Sausage and Pesto Cream Sauce Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe butternut squash?
Absolutely! When choosing butternut squash, look for a firm, heavy squash with a smooth, tan-colored skin. Avoid any that have dark spots or soft areas, which could indicate spoilage. A good rule of thumb is to select a squash that’s about the size of your forearm; smaller ones tend to be sweeter.
What’s the best way to store leftover lasagna roll-ups?
Very! Store leftover roasted garlic butternut squash lasagna roll-ups in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. Make sure they are well covered with the sauce to keep them moist and flavorful.
Can I freeze the lasagna roll-ups?
Definitely! To freeze, wrap each roll-up individually in plastic wrap and place them in a tightly sealed freezer-safe container. They can remain frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes.
What if my lasagna noodles are too soft when cooked?
Oh no! If your noodles get too soft, they may break when you’re rolling them. To avoid this, cook the lasagna noodles just 1 minute less than recommended on the package—this keeps them sturdy enough for rolling. If they do get overcooked, you can try to gently place them on a towel to absorb some moisture and attempt rolling them carefully.
Are there any dietary considerations for the ingredients?
Absolutely! If you or your guests have dietary restrictions, this recipe is very versatile. For a vegetarian option, just omit the sausage and consider adding sautéed spinach or other veggies to the filling. Be cautious with pesto, as it often contains nuts; you can either make a nut-free version or use store-bought ones that meet your dietary needs.
How can I adjust the cream sauce thickness?
Very simple! If your pesto cream sauce turns out too thick, reserve some of the pasta cooking water and gradually stir in a few tablespoons at a time until you reach your desired consistency. This technique not only helps adjust thickness but also enhances the flavor with that starchy pasta goodness!
Roasted Garlic Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll-Ups with Sausage Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Filling: Begin by roasting garlic and cooking butternut squash ahead of time. Preheat your oven to 350°F to ensure it’s ready for baking!
- Cook the Noodles: Boil lasagna noodles for 1 minute less than the package directions; drizzle with olive oil to prevent them from sticking together. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the Sausage: In a skillet, brown the sweet Italian turkey sausage until juicy and delicious, then set aside.
- Blend the Filling: In a blender, mix the cooked squash, roasted garlic, Parmesan, ricotta, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Make the Cream Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter, then add milk, cream, and pesto; bring to a lovely simmer. Stir in the remaining Parmesan and adjust thickness with reserved pasta water.
- Assemble the Roll-Ups: Spread the flavorful squash mixture onto each noodle, sprinkle with sausage, and roll them up tightly.
- Layer in the Dish: Spread 1/3 of the pesto sauce at the bottom of a baking dish, arrange roll-ups seam-side down, and cover with the remaining sauce.
- Bake to Perfection: Cover and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until everything is heated through and bubbling with deliciousness.