Imagine a warm, comforting dish that perfectly blends the rich flavors of creamy goat cheese with the sweet, earthy notes of roasted butternut squash—welcome to your new favorite indulgence: Butternut Squash Goat Cheese Lasagna! This Italian-inspired recipe is not only a feast for the senses but also a delightful way to incorporate seasonal produce into your meals. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply craving a cozy night in, this lasagna is sure to impress your guests and tantalize your taste buds. Ready to elevate your culinary skills and create a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds? Dive into this recipe and discover the magic of layering flavors!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup goat cheese, crumbled
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your lasagna cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- Prepare the butternut squash. Start by peeling the squash with a vegetable peeler. Cut it in half, scoop out the seeds, and then dice it into small cubes, about 1/2 inch in size.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, add the diced butternut squash. Season with salt and pepper. Sauté for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the squash is tender and slightly caramelized. Remove from heat and set aside.
- While the squash is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the lasagna noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the noodles and lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel to prevent them from sticking together.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, crumbled goat cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until well combined and set aside.
- In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. This will prevent the noodles from sticking.
- Layer 3 lasagna noodles over the marinara sauce, making sure they do not overlap. Spread half of the ricotta and goat cheese mixture over the noodles, followed by half of the sautéed butternut squash. Then, pour a third of the marinara sauce over the squash and sprinkle with a third of the shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat the layering process: add another 3 noodles, the remaining ricotta and goat cheese mixture, the remaining butternut squash, another third of the marinara sauce, and another third of the mozzarella cheese.
- Finish with a final layer of 3 lasagna noodles. Top this layer with the remaining marinara sauce and the remaining mozzarella cheese, ensuring that the noodles are well covered to prevent drying out.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, making sure it does not touch the cheese. This will keep the moisture in while baking.
- Bake the lasagna in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Once done, remove the lasagna from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This will help the layers set and make serving easier.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your delicious butternut squash goat cheese lasagna!
Tips
- Choose the Right Squash: When selecting butternut squash, look for one that feels heavy for its size and has a smooth, firm skin. This ensures maximum flavor and texture in your lasagna.
- Pre-cook the Noodles: To prevent your lasagna from becoming too watery, ensure you cook the lasagna noodles just until al dente. They will continue to soften while baking.
- Layering Technique: When layering your lasagna, make sure to cover each layer with sauce and cheese to keep the noodles moist. This will help achieve that perfect cheesy, bubbly top!
- Let It Rest: After baking, allow your lasagna to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting time helps the layers set, making it easier to serve and enhancing the flavors.
- Add Fresh Herbs: For an extra pop of flavor, consider garnishing your lasagna with fresh herbs like basil or parsley before serving. It adds a lovely touch and brightens the dish!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 23g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 75mg
