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Comfort food holds a special place in the hearts and kitchens of cultures around the world. It evokes feelings of warmth, nostalgia, and satisfaction, often transporting us back to cherished family gatherings or cozy evenings spent at home. From creamy mac and cheese to rich, savory stews, comfort food encapsulates flavors and aromas that nourish not only the body but also the soul. Among these delightful dishes, lasagna stands out as a beloved favorite, known for its layers of pasta, cheese, and an array of fillings. In this article, we are excited to introduce a unique twist on the classic lasagna: Hearty Butternut Squash Lasagna.

Butternut Squash Lasagna

Discover the ultimate comfort food with our Hearty Butternut Squash Lasagna recipe! This unique twist on the classic dish layers the natural sweetness of butternut squash with creamy ricotta, melty mozzarella, and fresh spinach, creating a delightfully hearty and nutritious meal. Packed with vitamins and fiber, this lasagna is not just delicious but also a great addition to your healthy eating plan. Perfect for cozy dinners or family gatherings, it's sure to impress everyone at the table!
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Ingredients
  

1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed

2 cups ricotta cheese

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 cups fresh spinach (or kale)

12 lasagna noodles (oven-ready or regular)

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon dried basil

1 teaspoon dried oregano

Salt and pepper, to taste

1/2 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Squash: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for about 25-30 minutes or until tender.

    Make the Spinach Mixture: In a skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute). Add the spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted. Season with salt, pepper, and set aside to cool slightly.

      Blend the Squash: Once the squash is done roasting, transfer it to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth, adding a splash of water if necessary to achieve a creamy consistency. Mix in dried basil and oregano for added flavor.

        Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the grated Parmesan cheese, the sautéed spinach, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until well combined.

          Assemble the Lasagna: In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Place 4 lasagna noodles on top. Spread 1/3 of the ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles, then layer on 1/3 of the butternut squash puree, and sprinkle with a layer of mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers (noodles, ricotta mixture, squash puree, mozzarella) two more times, finishing with a final layer of noodles topped with marinara sauce and remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.

            Bake the Lasagna: Cover with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

              Cool and Serve: Remove the lasagna from the oven and let it sit for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This will help the layers set for cleaner slices. Serve warm and enjoy this hearty and comforting dish!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 30 minutes | 1 hour | 6 servings