Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll-Ups are the perfect example of a dish that feels elegant enough for entertaining yet comforting enough to enjoy on a quiet evening at home. With each roll, you experience the sweetness of roasted butternut squash mingling with the caramelized richness of onions, the subtle herbaceous aroma of sage, and the creaminess of ricotta and mozzarella tucked into tender lasagna sheets. The rolls are then nestled into a baking dish with a velvety béchamel sauce and a layer of tomato sauce that bubbles and caramelizes in the oven until the top is golden and irresistible. This recipe combines classic Italian-inspired techniques with seasonal ingredients, offering a fresh twist on traditional lasagna. Its versatility makes it ideal for dinner parties, potlucks, or weekly meal prep, since the rolls can be assembled in advance and baked when needed, saving time without sacrificing flavor.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• Olive oil

• Butternut squash

• Onions

• Fresh sage

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

• Jalapeño (optional)

• Pasta sauce (homemade or store-bought)

• Lasagna riccia sheets (curled-edge lasagna noodles)

• Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing

• Butter

• All-purpose flour

• Whole milk

• Fresh thyme

• Ricotta cheese

• Mozzarella cheese

• Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)

• Turkey deli slices (optional)

• Optional garnish: olive oil, chiles, chopped parsley, extra grated Parmesan

Directions

• Roast the butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper until soft and caramelized, then mash into a smooth filling.

• Slowly cook onions in olive oil until deeply caramelized, then stir them with the squash and sage to create the roll-up filling.

• Boil lasagna noodles until just shy of al dente, then lay flat and brush lightly with oil to prevent sticking.

• In a saucepan, prepare béchamel by melting butter, whisking in flour, then gradually adding milk until thickened; season with thyme, salt, and pepper.

• Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce in the bottom of a greased baking dish.

• Spread squash mixture onto each lasagna sheet, add ricotta, mozzarella, and optional turkey slices, then roll tightly.

• Place rolls seam-side down in the baking dish, cover with béchamel and remaining tomato sauce, sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan.

• Bake until the cheese is bubbling and the top is golden brown. Garnish with parsley, chiles, or extra Parmesan before serving.

Nutrients

• Serving size: about 9 servings

• Calories: varies by portion and ingredient adjustments

• Protein: moderate, boosted with ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan

• Carbohydrates: primarily from pasta and squash

• Fat: balanced from cheeses, béchamel, and olive oil

Why This Recipe Stands Out

This dish distinguishes itself by merging the richness of a classic lasagna with the elegance of individually rolled servings. Instead of being heavy or overwhelming, each roll offers the perfect portion that feels refined on the plate. The roasted butternut squash brings warmth and sweetness, elevating the flavor profile beyond a standard cheese-based filling. Sage and caramelized onions provide depth and complexity, while the creamy béchamel balances the acidity of tomato sauce to create harmony. Presentation is another highlight—golden, bubbling rolls arranged neatly in a dish have a striking effect, instantly making the meal feel celebratory. Whether for a family gathering, a romantic dinner, or a festive seasonal spread, these roll-ups strike the right balance between comfort food and gourmet dining.

The Benefits of the Ingredients

Every ingredient contributes to both flavor and nutrition. Butternut squash is not only naturally sweet but also rich in fiber, potassium, and immune-boosting vitamins A and C, making it a seasonal powerhouse. Caramelized onions are packed with antioxidants while adding savory-sweet complexity. Fresh sage infuses the filling with earthy aromatics while supporting digestion. The béchamel, made with milk and butter, offers calcium and creaminess without being overly indulgent if prepared with moderation. Ricotta and mozzarella enrich the dish with protein and provide that signature gooey, satisfying texture. Parmesan, with its sharpness, finishes the dish with a touch of umami. The ruffled lasagna noodles are perfect for trapping sauce, giving each bite more flavor and texture. Even optional additions like turkey slices or jalapeños add versatility—protein for a more filling option or spice for a little heat. Altogether, these ingredients create a dish that is both nutritious and indulgent, allowing you to enjoy comfort food without guilt.

Cooking Tips

To make sure your lasagna roll-ups come out perfectly every time, start with properly roasted squash. Cutting the squash in half and roasting it cut-side down allows natural sugars to caramelize, creating a deeper flavor. When caramelizing onions, patience is key—low heat over a long time ensures they develop sweetness without burning. For the noodles, avoid overcooking as they will continue baking in the oven; aim for slightly firm pasta that can roll without tearing. Spread the filling evenly so each roll has balanced flavors, and avoid overstuffing, which can cause breakage. While preparing béchamel, whisk constantly to avoid lumps and aim for a sauce that coats the back of a spoon. Once assembled, cover the baking dish with foil for the first half of baking to retain moisture, then remove it to allow the cheese to crisp and brown. For added convenience, assemble the rolls a day ahead, refrigerate, and bake when ready. If freezing, wrap individual rolls tightly, thaw before baking, and heat gently to preserve texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These roll-ups are a meal in themselves but pair beautifully with a fresh green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to add brightness. Roasted Brussels sprouts or green beans also complement the richness while highlighting the fall theme. For a cozy pairing, serve with a warm bowl of soup like roasted red pepper, tomato basil, or pumpkin bisque, creating a hearty, seasonal feast. A glass of crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc enhances the creamy and savory notes, while sparkling water with citrus offers a refreshing, lighter option. For gatherings, serve the roll-ups in a large baking dish and garnish with extra Parmesan and parsley for visual appeal. Leftovers are just as delightful—portion into containers for lunches, or freeze for a ready-made dinner. The versatility of this dish means it adapts to casual family meals and elegant dinner parties alike, making it a recipe worth repeating throughout the season.

Conclusion

Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll-Ups are a celebration of autumn flavors wrapped in a format that is both practical and beautiful. They take the comfort of lasagna and transform it into something lighter and more refined, with roasted squash, sage, and caramelized onions setting the stage for indulgent layers of cheese and sauce. Each roll is a perfect balance of sweetness, creaminess, and savory richness, creating a dish that feels indulgent without being overwhelming. The option to make it ahead or freeze portions makes it a reliable choice for busy schedules, while the presentation ensures it can impress on any dinner table. This recipe captures the warmth and coziness of the season while offering flexibility for different dietary preferences. Whether you’re hosting friends, feeding family, or simply indulging in a comforting homemade dinner, these roll-ups bring a touch of elegance and satisfaction that makes every bite feel like a celebration of the season.