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As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like the warmth and comfort of a homemade lasagna. Our Cozy Butternut Squash Spinach Lasagna embodies the essence of autumn with its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, making it an ideal dish for chilly evenings. This delightful variation on traditional lasagna incorporates seasonal favorites that not only satisfy your taste buds but also nourish your body.

Butternut Squash Spinach Lasagna

Warm up your fall evenings with our Cozy Butternut Squash Spinach Lasagna, a delicious twist on a classic dish. Bursting with the flavors of roasted butternut squash and sautéed spinach, this comforting lasagna is both satisfying and nutritious. Rich cheeses meld beautifully with the seasonal ingredients, creating a meal that feels indulgent yet wholesome. Discover the joy of cooking with this step-by-step guide and bring a touch of autumn to your dinner table.
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Ingredients
  

2 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced

1 tablespoon olive oil

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon dried thyme

9-12 lasagna noodles (regular or no-boil)

3 cups fresh spinach

2 cups ricotta cheese

1 cup grated mozzarella cheese, divided

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 large egg

3 cups marinara sauce

Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it's hot and ready for baking your lasagna.

    Prepare the Squash: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the diced butternut squash with olive oil, a generous pinch of salt, freshly ground black pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme. Spread the seasoned squash evenly on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until tender and slightly caramelized.

      Cook the Noodles: If you are using regular lasagna noodles, follow the package instructions to cook them until they are al dente. Drain them well and set aside to cool.

        Sauté the Spinach: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the fresh spinach. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes or until the spinach is wilted and bright green. Once cooked, remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly.

          Make the Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the grated mozzarella, the grated Parmesan, the egg, and the wilted spinach. Season with a little salt and pepper, then mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well blended.

            Layer the Lasagna: In a 9x13 inch baking dish, begin by spreading a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Layer with 3-4 lasagna noodles, then spread half of the ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles. Add half of the roasted butternut squash on top and drizzle with more marinara sauce. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a final layer of noodles topped with remaining marinara and the rest of the mozzarella cheese.

              Bake the Lasagna: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. To prevent the foil from sticking to the cheese, you may spray the underside with cooking spray. Bake in the oven for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

                Let it Rest: After baking, remove the lasagna from the oven and allow it to rest for about 10-15 minutes. This resting period allows the layers to set and makes cutting into the lasagna much easier.

                  Garnish and Serve: Cut the lasagna into squares and serve hot, garnished with fresh basil if desired. Savor the rich, comforting flavors of this delightful dish!

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 30 min | 1 hr | 6-8 servings

                      Presentation Tips: Serve the lasagna on warm plates to keep it cozy, and consider adding a side salad for a fresh contrast to the creamy layers of lasagna. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top before serving enhances the dish beautifully. Enjoy!