Delicious Butternut Squash Lasagna with Comforting Flavors

The first time I made Butternut Squash Lasagna, I was chasing a way to sneak more veggies into our meals without causing dinnertime negotiations. My kids had been dragging their feet around standard pasta dishes, and I knew I needed a fresh, comforting option that packed nutrition and flavor without turning into a stressful kitchen experiment. Spoiler: this Butternut Squash Lasagna quickly became a family hit—not just because it tasted cozy and delicious, but because it loaded our plates with vitamins and fiber in a way that felt natural and inviting.

What really drew me in was how this recipe transformed a simple roasted butternut squash recipe into something that felt like fall comfort food while supporting our wellness. The creamy butternut squash sauce blends beautifully into layers of tender pasta sheets, making it a home run for anyone juggling picky eaters and nutrition goals. It’s a vegetarian lasagna that doesn’t sacrifice taste or satisfaction, which is such a relief on busy weeknights.

I’m sharing this Butternut Squash Lasagna story because if you’re a busy mom trying to feed your family with wholesome meals but without the overwhelm, you’re not alone. This recipe helped me build a steady nutrition win in our dinnertime chaos and I hope it can do the same for you. Plus, it pairs well with other favorites like my white lasagna soup recipe or a warm southern squash casserole, which keep our family table colorful and balanced. If you’re ready for a practical but nutrient-packed twist on classic comfort food, this Butternut Squash Lasagna is here for you.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

Ingredients for Butternut Squash Lasagna including butternut squash, spinach, cheeses, and noodles
  • 4 cups peeled and cubed butternut squash (about one medium squash)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (great for healthy fats!)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 12 lasagna noodles, cooked (look for whole wheat for extra fiber)
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or use plant-based for dairy-free)
  • 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese (optional; adds creaminess and protein)
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (my family loves the extra iron!)
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried sage or fresh if you have it (this adds a lovely fall flavor)
  • 1/4 cup milk (you can use almond or oat milk to keep it dairy-free)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

No worries if you don’t have fresh sage on hand—I’ve used dried sage in this Butternut Squash Lasagna and it’s still perfectly cozy. And if you want a shortcut, grab pre-cubed squash at your grocery store—time saved is sanity saved!

This Butternut Squash Lasagna keeps things budget-friendly and packed with nutrients. Butternut squash is full of vitamin A and fiber, supporting digestion and immune health. My family gets extra nutrition when I toss in fresh spinach and garlic—both kid-friendly veggies that sneak in vitamins without fuss.

For meat-eating families, you could add some cooked Italian sausage or ground turkey into the butternut squash pasta bake layers for a protein boost if you like. But this vegetarian lasagna holds its own and is perfect for those days when you want comforting but light fall comfort food.

Let’s Make it Happen!

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Toss your cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, pepper, and minced garlic on a baking sheet. Roast for about 25-30 minutes, until tender and caramelized. Your kitchen will smell like fall in no time! This roasted butternut squash recipe is the heart of our Butternut Squash Lasagna’s creamy sauce.

Step 2: While that’s roasting, cook your lasagna noodles according to package instructions. I like using whole wheat noodles for extra fiber. After cooking, lay them flat on a kitchen towel to keep them from sticking—that helps when you start layering.

Step 3: When the squash is done, add it to a blender or food processor along with milk, sage, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy; this is your creamy butternut squash sauce. If it’s too thick, add a splash more milk. Pro tip: the sauce should be thick enough to stick but smooth enough to spread easily.

Step 4: Stir chopped spinach into your creamy sauce—this sneaks in extra greens that my kids usually don’t notice. If your kids hesitate to eat spinach straight, this Butternut Squash Lasagna trick really helps them get some without a fuss.

Step 5: Now, let’s layer! In your baking dish, spread a thin layer of the butternut squash sauce on the bottom. Then place a layer of noodles, a generous spread of the sauce, dollops of ricotta, and a sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan. Repeat until you run out of sauce and noodles, finishing with a cheesy top.

Step 6: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then remove foil and bake an extra 10 minutes for that golden bubbly top we all love. If your Butternut Squash Lasagna looks a bit watery at first, don’t worry—that creamy squash sauce sets up beautifully as it cools.

Step 7: Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. This is the perfect time to pack school lunches or tidy up the kitchen. Your family will thank you for this nourishing, nutrient-dense fall comfort food!

This Butternut Squash Lasagna usually takes about an hour from start to finish—a reasonable dinnertime win for busy moms. If you want to make it even quicker, roast the squash the night before or double the recipe for freezer meals ahead.

For more cozy pasta bake ideas to feed your family, check out this butternut squash pasta bake inspiration by Henry David Firth—it’s gorgeous and nutrition-packed!

How We Love to Eat This!

Our family loves serving this Butternut Squash Lasagna with a simple side of roasted Brussels sprouts or a crisp green salad, which keeps the meal light yet filling. The kids especially enjoy pairing it with carrot sticks and hummus, adding a crunch and extra fiber to the plate.

Because this dish is such a comforting vegetarian lasagna, it shines on chilly fall nights or anytime we crave warm, nourishing food. I even bring leftovers to moms’ meetups or potlucks—it’s always a winner!

Presentation-wise, sprinkling a handful of fresh herbs on top before serving makes it seem extra special without extra effort. You could even drizzle a little balsamic glaze for a tangy touch that kids usually find fun.

When we have leftovers—and trust me, we always do—I like to warm individual portions in the oven or microwave. It reheats well and keeps its nutrition intact, making it a sanity-saving lunch or after-school snack.

If you want to mix it up, try swapping the spinach for kale or adding sautéed mushrooms for a more earthy twist. Some friends have loved doubling up on the cheese for a treat, while others prefer it lighter without ricotta—that quick switch works with this tasty Butternut Squash Lasagna.

If your kids love this tasty Butternut Squash Lasagna, they’ll also go crazy for my white lasagna soup recipe or the creamy southern squash casserole that pack simple nutrition into every bite.

FAQs: Your Questions Answered

Q: Is this Butternut Squash Lasagna really nutritious enough for growing kids?
A: Absolutely! The butternut squash offers vitamin A and fiber, while the cheeses add protein and calcium. I boost the nutrition quietly with spinach and garlic, which adds iron and antioxidants. My picky eaters have surprisingly loved it because it tastes like comfort food, not “healthy.”

Q: What if my picky eater won’t try this healthy Butternut Squash Lasagna?
A: I get it! Start with smaller portions and pair it with a favorite veggie. The creamy butternut squash sauce tends to win over reluctant eaters. For extra encouragement, involve your child in layering the lasagna—they’re more likely to taste what they helped make!

Q: Can I meal prep this Butternut Squash Lasagna for busy weeks ahead?
A: Yes! This lasagna freezes beautifully. Prepare it completely, then freeze portions in airtight containers. Reheat at 350°F covered until warmed through. I do this when life’s crazy and it saves my sanity while keeping nutrition high.

Q: Can I use no-boil noodles instead of regular ones?
A: Definitely. Just make sure your Butternut Squash Lasagna has enough sauce to soften them while baking. I’ve had good success with this swap, and it cuts down prep time.

Q: Does this recipe fit into a vegetarian or gluten-free diet?
A: It’s a great vegetarian lasagna. For gluten-free, swap regular noodles with gluten-free ones, and confirm your cheeses are gluten-free. It’s a versatile, nutrition-packed dish that’s easy to adjust.

Q: How can I sneak even more veggies into this Butternut Squash Lasagna?
A: Try adding grated zucchini or finely chopped mushrooms with the squash. Or top with extra greens after baking for a fresh bite. This recipe is like a blank canvas for nutrition-packed tweaks.

Q: Where did you find this recipe?
A: I was inspired by a gorgeous butternut squash & sage lasagne reel from Henry David Firth and adapted it with my family’s tastes. Then I added my own nutrition hacks to make it practical for busy moms. (If you love this, check the Double-Stuffed Butternut Squash “Lasagna” by Sarah M. Lasry on Facebook, too!)

For more simple, wholesome casserole ideas to feed your family, peek at my squash casserole recipes; they’re simple, healthy, and mom-approved.

Final Thoughts:

Final plated Butternut Squash Lasagna showcasing its creamy layers and golden top

This Butternut Squash Lasagna supports our family’s nutrition goals by packing seasonal veggies, fiber, vitamins, and protein into a familiar, comforting meal. It keeps me sane during busy weeks and helps my kids get more plant goodness without battles.

My Butternut Squash Lasagna Nutrition Hacks?
– Adding fresh spinach into the creamy butternut squash sauce to sneak in iron and vitamins.
– Using whole wheat noodles for extra fiber.
– Roasting the butternut squash with garlic and sage to deepen flavor and antioxidants.

For variety, my husband loves it with extra spicy sausage added in, the kids favor the all-cheese version with ricotta, and I enjoy adding mushrooms or kale for extra earthiness and nutrients.

Make it your own! This Butternut Squash Lasagna is flexible enough for changing tastes and kitchen energy. I hope it brings you as many dinnertime nutrition wins and warm family moments as it has for us.

If you want more yummy recipes that fit busy family life, try my white lasagna soup recipe or dive into the cozy southern squash casserole for healthy comfort. You’re doing amazing feeding your family well. This recipe is here to help you feel confident and nourished—fellow moms, give it a whirl and enjoy the beautiful chaos of family meals!

For more ideas to feed your family nutritious meals without stress, don’t miss these:

  • Easy white lasagna soup for a quick warm-up right here
  • A southern squash casserole that’s like a veggie hug found here
  • Another nourishing squash casserole with a twist just here

And get inspired by amazing Butternut Squash Lasagna ideas like Henry David Firth’s recipe, Sarah M. Lasry’s double-stuffed take, or this “Lazy Lasagna” approach that’s perfect for busy cooks on Instagram.

Print

Butternut Squash Lasagna

This Butternut Squash Lasagna is a wholesome, comforting Italian-inspired dish that layers tender roasted squash with creamy cheese and savory tomato sauce for a perfect vegetarian meal.

  • Author: Juliette
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 60 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and thinly sliced
  • 9 lasagna noodles, cooked
  • 3 cups ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 3 cups marinara sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried sage
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Toss the butternut squash slices with olive oil, garlic, dried sage, salt, and pepper.
  2. Spread squash slices on a baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes until tender.
  3. In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom.
  4. Layer 3 cooked lasagna noodles over the sauce.
  5. Spread half of the ricotta cheese over the noodles, then add half of the roasted butternut squash slices.
  6. Top with a layer of marinara sauce, then sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
  7. Repeat layers once more starting with noodles, ricotta, squash, sauce, and cheeses.
  8. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
  9. Remove foil and bake another 10-15 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
  10. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving, garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Notes

For extra depth, add a layer of sautéed spinach or substitute sage with fresh thyme. Serve with a crisp green salad for a complete meal.

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