Imagine a lasagna so deliciously satisfying that you won't even miss the traditional pasta layers - this No Noodle Butternut Squash Lasagna is about to revolutionize your dinner game! Packed with hearty Italian sausage, creamy ricotta, and sweet butternut squash, this recipe transforms a classic comfort food into a healthier, more exciting meal that will have your family begging for seconds. Whether you're watching your carb intake or simply looking for a show-stopping dinner that's both nutritious and incredibly tasty, this recipe is your ultimate culinary destination.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 1 butternut squash, sliced
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with olive oil or cooking spray.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the Italian sausage, breaking it into small crumbles. Cook until the meat is no longer pink and has developed a nice golden color, about 8-10 minutes. Drain excess fat and set aside.
- Prepare the butternut squash by washing thoroughly and using a mandoline or sharp knife to slice into thin, uniform rounds approximately 1/4 inch thick. If using a knife, aim for consistent thickness to ensure even cooking.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well to incorporate the seasonings evenly.
- Begin layering the lasagna by spreading a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Create the first layer by arranging butternut squash slices to cover the entire bottom of the dish, slightly overlapping them.
- Spread half of the cooked Italian sausage over the squash layer, followed by dollops of the seasoned ricotta cheese.
- Pour about 1 cup of marinara sauce over the ricotta, ensuring even coverage.
- Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
- Repeat the layering process: butternut squash slices, remaining sausage, ricotta, marinara sauce, and mozzarella cheese.
- For the final layer, arrange a top layer of butternut squash and cover completely with remaining marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, ensuring it doesn't touch the cheese. This helps prevent burning and promotes even cooking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to allow the cheese to become golden and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes. This allows the layers to set and makes serving easier.
- Slice into 6 portions and serve hot. Optionally, garnish with fresh basil or parsley for added flavor and presentation.
Tips
- Slice Consistency is Key: Use a mandoline or very sharp knife to ensure butternut squash slices are uniformly thin (about 1/4 inch). This guarantees even cooking and a professional-looking layered dish.
- Drain Sausage Thoroughly: After browning the Italian sausage, drain excess fat to prevent a greasy lasagna and ensure clean, robust flavors.
- Season Ricotta Generously: Don't be shy with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper when mixing the ricotta. This is where your base flavor develops.
- Prevent Burning: Always cover the lasagna with foil for the majority of cooking time to protect the top from burning while allowing even heat distribution.
- Let it Rest: Patience matters! Allowing the lasagna to rest 10-15 minutes after baking helps the layers set and makes cutting and serving much easier.
- Optional Enhancements: Consider adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley as a final garnish to brighten the dish's flavor and presentation.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 440kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 80mg
