I still remember the first time I made Butternut Squash Lasagna. It was during one of those chaotic weeknights when I needed something comforting, nourishing, and, honestly, simple enough to handle without adding stress. The idea came from a fall vegetable lasagna I stumbled upon while scrolling through Pinterest late one night. I thought, why not try a creamy squash lasagna twist for my family? Spoiler: it was an instant hit! My kids loved the mild sweetness of the roasted squash lasagna layers, and my husband actually asked for seconds—a quiet win in our busy kitchen world.
What I quickly learned with this Butternut Squash Lasagna is how versatile it is. It’s a vegetarian lasagna that doesn’t feel like you’re skimping on flavor or heartiness. Balancing the creamy layers with the earthy roasted squash brought a warmth my family craves during the cooler months. Plus, it reminded me that comfort doesn’t have to be complicated or leave me scrambling. That’s the magic behind this recipe—it wraps simple ingredients into something familiar yet fresh.
If you’re a fellow busy mom searching for something comforting without the overwhelm, this Butternut Squash Lasagna might just become your go-to. Coming from the swirl of after-school meltdowns, school lunches to prep, and the sleepy call of bedtime, having a comforting dish like this brings a little peace to the daily chaos. It also sparks those quiet moments when your family gathers to share more than just a meal—it’s connection wrapped in cozy goodness.
By the way, if you love this cozy squash pasta bake vibe, take a peek at my Butternut Squash and Turkey Chili for another twist on simple family comfort. And when you want to switch gears toward a soupsier feel, my White Lasagna Soup Recipe is just as warm and easy.

Ingredients You’ll Need:
Here’s the comfort-friendly line-up for my Butternut Squash Lasagna. Trust me, no fancy stuff—just simple flavors to bring cozy back without complicated shopping trips.
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 3 pounds), peeled and diced
- 9-12 lasagna noodles, no-boil works great for saving time
- 3 cups ricotta cheese (whole milk ricotta for creamier comfort)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups baby spinach or kale (optional, but adds a nice fresh pop)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade, whatever you have on hand)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or sage (if you want that fall vegetable lasagna touch)
- Salt and pepper to taste
No worries if you don’t have fresh herbs—dried ones work well too, and I often swap baby spinach for frozen chopped spinach when my freezer is stocked. This Butternut Squash Lasagna proves delicious doesn’t mean expensive; you can find these simple ingredients at your regular grocery store or farmer’s market. If peeling and dicing squash feels like too much on busy days, many stores offer pre-cut squash (score!). That was a game changer for me when juggling school runs.
My family gets extra comfort when I add a pinch of nutmeg to the ricotta mixture—it somehow makes the creamy squash lasagna feel like a warm hug. Feel free to customize the cheeses or toss in some mushrooms for a fuller vegetarian lasagna experience. Shopping tip: grab no-boil noodles to cut down on prep—both time and sanity savers for busy kitchens!
If you want to see a pretty easy roasted squash lasagna version that inspired me, check out Alexandra’s lovely Roasted Butternut Squash Lasagna | Alexandra’s Kitchen. For another take on creamy layers, Giada’s butternut squash lasagna is worth the peek Giada’s Butternut Squash Lasagna. Henry David Firth’s butternut squash and sage lasagne reel also gives great ideas for flavors and layers Henry David Firth | BUTTERNUT SQUASH & SAGE LASAGNE A ….
Let’s Make it Happen!
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. In a large bowl, toss the diced butternut squash with olive oil, a pinch of salt, pepper, and fresh thyme or sage. Spread it out on a baking sheet and roast for about 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until tender and caramelized. Your kitchen should start smelling like fall dreams coming true.
2. While the squash roasts, sauté the chopped onions and garlic in a skillet over medium heat until soft and golden. If you’re adding spinach or kale, toss it in near the end so it wilts nicely. It’s a great way to sneak in veggies without complaints.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with the Parmesan, a little salt, pepper, and that pinch of nutmeg if you’re using it. This creamy mix will make your butternut squash pasta bake feel extra comforting with every bite.
4. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of your baking dish. Lay down your first layer of no-boil noodles. Spread half of the roasted butternut squash over the noodles, then dollop and spread half the ricotta mixture, followed by some of the sautéed greens and onions. Sprinkle a bit of mozzarella.
5. Repeat the layering: noodles, rest of the squash, ricotta mix, greens, and mozzarella. Finish with a final noodle layer, the remaining marinara sauce, and top generously with mozzarella and a little extra Parmesan for that golden crust.
6. Cover with foil and bake for 35 minutes. Uncover and bake another 10-15 minutes until bubbly and slightly browned on top. I usually set a timer and while it’s baking, prep tomorrow’s lunch or tuck the kids into their homework—it’s a perfect multitasking window.
7. Let your Butternut Squash Lasagna rest for 10 minutes before serving. This helps it set so every slice holds together but stays creamy.
Don’t worry if your Butternut Squash Lasagna looks a little messy off the bat—that’s all part of home cooking beauty. My family’s comfort comes from the smells, the warmth, and the fact that this recipe gives me a break from frantic “what’s for dinner?” moments. If you want some other comforting veggie bakes, my Squash Casserole recipe pairs well as a side or swap.
How We Love to Eat This!
This Butternut Squash Lasagna is a hit at our table when I serve it with crisp green salad or roasted winter veggies. The kids devour it when I add a sprinkle of Parmesan on top and a side of garlic bread—because sometimes a little carb indulgence makes the comfort even cozier.
I’ve found this dish perfect for those busy weeknights when we need comfort food fast, yet satisfying enough for weekend gatherings when friends drop by unannounced. Presentation-wise, I like to serve it in colorful ceramic dishes to add a homey touch that says, “let’s linger at this table a while.”
Leftovers? Oh, they’re a blessing! I reheat slices during the week for lunches, or sometimes layer it into a hearty butternut squash pasta bake transformation for a fresh take on leftovers.
Seasonally, I swap out spinach for kale or toss in some thin apple slices between layers in autumn for a subtle sweet surprise. Everyone around our table gets curious and always asks for the recipe (a mom-wins eternal moment!).
If your family loves this, I promise they might adore my cozy White Lasagna Soup Recipe too—a warm, all-in-one bowl that’s a lifesaver on busy nights.
FAQs: Your Questions Answered
Q: Is this Butternut Squash Lasagna filling enough for growing kids?
A: Absolutely! The combination of creamy cheese, hearty noodles, and roasted squash makes it satisfying. My kids say it’s “yummy” and keeps them full for after-school activities without that sugar crash from other snacks.
Q: What if my picky eater won’t try this Butternut Squash Lasagna?
A: Start with smaller portions and encourage tasting alongside something familiar, like a favorite cheese stick. I’ve found that layering the flavors gently in a butternut squash pasta bake helps transition picky eaters. Adding a bit more mozzarella can help mask veggie hesitations too.
Q: Can I meal prep this Butternut Squash Lasagna for busy weeks ahead?
A: Yes! Assemble it fully and freeze before baking, or bake first then freeze in portions. It reheats well in the oven or microwave, making it a roomy life-saver for hectic evenings.
Q: Can I substitute lasagna noodles with gluten-free options?
A: Definitely. I’ve swapped in gluten-free noodles with success. Just keep an eye on cooking times and moisture—sometimes you’ll need a touch more sauce for a creamy squash lasagna feel.
Q: How do I prevent the lasagna from drying out?
A: Covering with foil during most of the baking and using no-boil noodles helps keep moisture in. The creamy ricotta and roasted squash add juiciness too, so don’t skimp there!
Q: Can I add meat to this vegetarian lasagna?
A: Of course. Adding browned Italian sausage or ground turkey turns this into a heartier fall vegetable lasagna. My family enjoys that variation when we need extra protein.
Q: How long does leftover Butternut Squash Lasagna keep?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It tastes great reheated but if you want to keep it longer, consider freezing slices.
If you want to see more tossed salad or light sides that balance this creamy squash lasagna perfectly, I have a few more ideas in my Squash Casserole post that’s super family-friendly.
Final Thoughts:
My family’s comfort food goals revolve around simple, satisfying meals that don’t leave me drowning in prep or cleanup. This Butternut Squash Lasagna hits all those notes.
My Butternut Squash Lasagna Comfort Hacks:
– Use no-boil noodles to save on prep and clean-up
– Roast butternut squash a day ahead to speed dinnertime
– Add a pinch of nutmeg in the ricotta for cozy warmth
Over the years, we’ve tried a few family-tested Butternut Squash Lasagna variations:
– Adding kale and mushrooms for deeper veggies (my hubby’s favorite)
– Topping with a crispy sage-breadcrumb mixture (my daughter’s creative twist)
– Mixing in a layer of browned turkey for extra protein on busy weekdays
Each family member has their “go-to” favorite version, and that’s what makes this recipe so adaptable. You can make it your own way while still holding on to that cozy comfort feel.
If you’re in the mood for more nourishing hugs on a plate, give this Roasted Butternut Squash Lasagna | Alexandra’s Kitchen a look for another spin on the classic. I hope your family’s mealtimes fill with warmth and smiles as this dish has done for mine.

Here’s to less stress, happy tummies, and lots of comforting Butternut Squash Lasagna dinners ahead!
Butternut Squash Lasagna
A hearty and comforting lasagna layered with sweet roasted butternut squash, creamy béchamel sauce, and melted cheese, perfect for a cozy family dinner.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 9 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained
- 3 cups béchamel sauce (white sauce)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, garlic, onion, dried sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the squash on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and caramelized.
- Lower oven temperature to 375°F (190°C).
- In a greased baking dish, spread a thin layer of béchamel sauce on the bottom.
- Place 3 cooked lasagna noodles over the sauce.
- Spread half of the roasted butternut squash evenly over the noodles.
- Pour a third of the béchamel sauce over the squash, then sprinkle with a third of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
- Repeat layering with 3 noodles, the remaining squash, béchamel sauce, and cheeses.
- Top with the last 3 noodles, remaining béchamel sauce, and cheeses.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 15 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Notes
For extra depth, add a layer of sautéed spinach or substitute mozzarella with ricotta for a creamier texture.

