Pumpkin Lasagna Roll-Ups with Crispy Sage: A Cozy Fall Favorite

Introduction

As the leaves turn golden and the air gets crisp, it’s time to embrace the cozy flavors of fall. There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, cheesy dish that’s bursting with seasonal goodness, and these Pumpkin Lasagna Roll-Ups with Crispy Sage do just that! Imagine tender lasagna noodles rolled up with a rich pumpkin filling, smothered in creamy béchamel sauce and topped with crispy sage. It’s like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for chilly evenings or festive gatherings.

I first discovered this recipe during a family gathering where we were tasked with bringing dishes that showcased the flavors of autumn. I was instantly drawn to the idea of combining pumpkin—one of my favorite fall ingredients—with the comforting familiarity of lasagna. When I made it for the first time, the aroma wafting through the kitchen was enough to get everyone excited. As soon as we sat down to eat, we were all hooked! Since then, it’s become a staple in my fall cooking repertoire, bringing joy and warmth to our table.

So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to make a dish that’s not only delicious but also visually stunning. Trust me; this recipe will become a new fall favorite in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Seasonal Flavors: The earthy sweetness of pumpkin paired with nutty sage creates a perfect autumnal harmony.
• Easily Customizable: You can adjust the cheese or add your favorite herbs to make it your own.
• Impressive Presentation: These roll-ups look beautiful on the plate, making them perfect for special occasions.

Picture the moment you slice into these golden roll-ups, revealing the creamy filling and gooey cheese inside. The crispy sage adds a delightful crunch that perfectly complements the softness of the pasta and filling. It’s a dish that tastes as wonderful as it looks, sure to impress both family and friends!

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (30 minutes prep, 45 minutes cook time)
• Servings: 4 hearty portions
• Calories per serving: Approximately 500 calories, Protein: 18g, Carbs: 50g.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create your Pumpkin Lasagna Roll-Ups:

• 9-12 lasagna noodles: The foundation of your roll-ups; choose whole wheat or regular based on preference.
• 1 cup pumpkin puree: Adds creaminess and a rich, autumnal flavor.
• 1 cup ricotta cheese: For a creamy filling that balances the pumpkin.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: For that melty, cheesy goodness.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty bite and depth to the dish.
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg: A warm spice that enhances the pumpkin flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings to bring out the best in your ingredients.
• 1 cup béchamel sauce: For a creamy layer that ties everything together (store-bought or homemade).
• 8-10 fresh sage leaves: For crispy sage, which adds a lovely crunch and flavor contrast.
• Olive oil: For frying the sage and adding richness to the dish.

Why These Ingredients Matter:

• Pumpkin Puree: This gives the roll-ups their distinct flavor and creaminess.
• Cheeses: The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates a creamy, cheesy filling that’s absolutely irresistible.
• Sage: Fresh sage adds an aromatic quality that perfectly complements the pumpkin.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s dive into making these delicious Pumpkin Lasagna Roll-Ups. Follow these easy steps to create your cozy fall dish!

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your roll-ups bake evenly and nicely.

Step 2: Cook the Lasagna Noodles

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel or parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

• In a mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, ricotta cheese, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
• Mix until well combined. This will be your creamy filling!

Step 4: Assemble the Roll-Ups

• Spread about 2-3 tablespoons of the pumpkin filling onto each lasagna noodle, leaving about an inch at the edges.
• Carefully roll up each noodle from one end to the other, creating a snug roll.
• Place the roll-ups seam-side down in a greased baking dish.

Step 5: Add the Béchamel Sauce

• Pour the béchamel sauce evenly over the roll-ups in the baking dish.
• Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top for that cheesy crust.

Step 6: Bake the Roll-Ups

• Cover the dish with aluminum foil (to prevent burning) and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
• Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 7: Prepare the Crispy Sage

• While the roll-ups are baking, heat a small skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
• Add the fresh sage leaves and fry for 1-2 minutes, or until crispy. Keep an eye on them—they can burn quickly!

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

• Once the roll-ups are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
• Top with crispy sage just before serving for an added crunch.

Helpful Tips:

• Don’t worry if the filling oozes out a bit during baking; it just adds to the rustic charm!
• Feel free to add cooked spinach or mushrooms to the filling for extra flavor and nutrition.
• If you want a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling.

How to Serve

Here are some delightful serving suggestions for your Pumpkin Lasagna Roll-Ups:

• Garnish with extra sage: Fresh sage leaves make a lovely garnish along with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan.
• Pair with a side salad: A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish.
• Serve with crusty bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the béchamel sauce.

Additional Tips

To ensure your Pumpkin Lasagna Roll-Ups turn out perfectly, consider these helpful tips:

1. Use fresh herbs: Fresh sage elevates the flavor. If you can’t find fresh, dried sage works too—just use less.
2. Make it ahead: You can assemble the roll-ups a day in advance and refrigerate them. Just add an extra few minutes to the baking time.
3. Experiment with cheeses: Try mixing in some goat cheese or fontina for a unique flavor twist.
4. Adjust the spice: If you love a bit of heat, consider adding cayenne pepper or chili powder to the filling.
5. Store leftovers properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Recipe Variations

Here are some fun variations to customize your Pumpkin Lasagna Roll-Ups:

• Vegetarian Option: Add cooked spinach or sautéed mushrooms to the pumpkin filling for a heartier dish.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles for a delicious alternative.
• Add Protein: Mix in some cooked ground turkey or sausage to the filling for added protein and flavor.
• Different Squash: Swap pumpkin for roasted butternut squash for a slightly different taste.

Serving Suggestions

Enhance your meal experience with these complementary dishes and drinks:

• Side Dishes: Serve with roasted Brussels sprouts or a warm butternut squash soup.
• Wine Pairings: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red, like Pinot Noir, pairs beautifully with the flavors.
• For Kids: Serve with a side of carrot sticks or apple slices to keep things fun and fresh.

Freezing and Storage

Here’s how to properly store your Pumpkin Lasagna Roll-Ups:

• Storage: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the assembled (but unbaked) roll-ups for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
• Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Special Equipment

While you can whip up these roll-ups with basic kitchen tools, here are a few items that might help:

• Baking Dish: A 9×13-inch dish works perfectly for this recipe.
• Skillet: For frying the sage and adding that crispy touch.
• Mixing Bowl: A good-sized bowl is essential for mixing the filling.

FAQ Section

Got questions? Here are some answers to help you navigate this recipe:

Can I use store-bought béchamel sauce?
Yes! If you’re short on time, store-bought works perfectly.

What if I don’t have ricotta?
You can substitute with cottage cheese or even cream cheese for a different texture.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble it

the night before, refrigerate, and bake when you’re ready to eat.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! Store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.

What’s the best way to reheat?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to maintain texture.

Conclusion

I can’t wait for you to try these Pumpkin Lasagna Roll-Ups with Crispy Sage! They’re not just a feast for the eyes; they’re a delicious way to celebrate the flavors of fall. Cooking can be such a joy, especially when sharing delightful meals with loved ones. Don’t forget to snap a photo of your creation and tag me on Instagram—I love seeing your delicious adaptations! Enjoy every bite!

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