Creamy Cottage Cheese and Butternut Squash Lasagna Recipe

Cottage Cheese and Butternut Squash Lasagna is like a warm hug on a chilly evening; it wraps you in creamy layers of goodness that make your taste buds dance with joy. Picture this: gooey cheese, sweet and nutty butternut squash, and a hint of spice all nestled between sheets of tender pasta—it’s the ultimate comfort food experience that sings to your soul.

Now, let me take you back to the first time I discovered this delightful dish. I was at a cozy little café, and as soon as the waiter brought out my order, the aroma enveloped me like a cloud of happiness. I couldn’t resist snapping a pic for Instagram, but trust me, it was even better than it looked. Whether it’s a family gathering or just an ordinary Wednesday night, Cottage Cheese and Butternut Squash Lasagna is perfect for any occasion—and it promises to deliver an explosion of flavors that’ll leave you craving more.

Ingredients for Cottage Cheese and Butternut Squash Lasagna

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Lasagna Noodles: Choose either traditional or whole wheat noodles based on your preference; no-boil varieties work great too!
• Cottage Cheese: Look for low-fat cottage cheese for creaminess without feeling guilty; it’s also packed with protein.
• Butternut Squash: Fresh butternut squash brings natural sweetness; peel and cube it before cooking for best results.
• Spinach: Fresh spinach adds color and nutrients; feel free to substitute with frozen spinach if that’s what you’ve got.
• Italian Seasoning: A mix of dried herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme brings that authentic Italian flavor to your lasagna.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: This melty goodness holds everything together; don’t skimp on this crowd-pleaser!

For the Sauce:

• Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought sauce or homemade—this will keep everything moist and flavorful.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Cottage Cheese and Butternut Squash Lasagna

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating up, grab a baking dish and give it a spray with nonstick cooking spray so nothing gets stuck during baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Butternut Squash

In a large pot, boil water and toss in your cubed butternut squash. Cook until tender but still firm—around eight minutes should do the trick. Drain them well!

Step 3: Mix the Filling

In a bowl, combine cottage cheese with half of your shredded mozzarella cheese and Italian seasoning. Stir until everything is well-blended—you want those cheesy dreams coming true!

Step 4: Layer Like a Pro

Start layering in your baking dish: spread marinara sauce at the bottom first (to keep things saucy), then add your lasagna noodles followed by half of the cottage cheese mixture. Next up, sprinkle some cooked butternut squash cubes and fresh spinach before adding another layer of marinara sauce.

Step 5: Repeat Layers

Repeat step four until all ingredients are used up! Make sure you finish off with noodles topped with marinara sauce and remaining mozzarella cheese for that cheesy crust everyone loves.

Step 6: Bake It Up

Cover the lasagna with aluminum foil (to prevent burning) and bake for about 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and let things get bubbly for an additional ten minutes—or until golden brown!

Transfer to plates and drizzle with extra marinara sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every creamy bite of this delectable Cottage Cheese and Butternut Squash Lasagna!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by roasting the butternut squash until tender, then prepare your lasagna noodles while blending the cottage cheese mixture. Layer everything together in a baking dish, and let the oven do its magic for a bubbling masterpiece.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out butternut squash for sweet potatoes or add spinach for extra greens. Experiment with spices like nutmeg or sage to elevate the flavors of your Cottage Cheese and Butternut Squash Lasagna.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for convenience.

Sometimes I whip this lasagna up for friends’ gatherings, and you wouldn’t believe how many people ask for seconds—it’s become my unofficial party dish!

FAQs :

What is Cottage Cheese and Butternut Squash Lasagna?

Cottage Cheese and Butternut Squash Lasagna is a nutritious twist on traditional lasagna. This dish replaces ricotta with cottage cheese, providing a lighter texture and a boost of protein. The butternut squash adds natural sweetness and creaminess, making it a delicious vegetarian option. Layered with pasta sheets, marinara sauce, and mozzarella cheese, this lasagna blends flavors beautifully while maintaining a healthy profile. It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep!

How do you make Cottage Cheese and Butternut Squash Lasagna healthier?

To make Cottage Cheese and Butternut Squash Lasagna healthier, use whole grain or gluten-free pasta sheets. You can also opt for low-fat cottage cheese to reduce calorie content without sacrificing flavor. Adding spinach or kale increases the nutritional value significantly. Additionally, using homemade marinara sauce allows you to control sugar levels and avoid preservatives found in store-bought versions.

Can I freeze Cottage Cheese and Butternut Squash Lasagna?

Yes, you can definitely freeze Cottage Cheese and Butternut Squash Lasagna! To do this, prepare the lasagna as usual but don’t bake it first. Instead, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil after assembling. When you’re ready to enjoy it later, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake it according to your recipe instructions. This method preserves the flavors and textures well.

What are some side dishes that pair well with Cottage Cheese and Butternut Squash Lasagna?

Cottage Cheese and Butternut Squash Lasagna pairs wonderfully with several side dishes. A fresh garden salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette complements the richness of the lasagna perfectly. Garlic bread is another favorite choice that adds crunch and flavor. For a lighter option, steamed broccoli or roasted Brussels sprouts can enhance the meal’s nutrition while balancing its flavors.

Conclusion for Cottage Cheese and Butternut Squash Lasagna :

In summary, Cottage Cheese and Butternut Squash Lasagna is a delightful alternative to traditional recipes that packs a nutritional punch. Using cottage cheese instead of ricotta offers a lighter texture while butternut squash brings sweetness to each bite. With easy preparation steps and customizable options for health-conscious eaters, this dish suits various dietary needs. Enjoying this lasagna can become a cherished family tradition filled with flavor and nourishment!

Print

Cottage Cheese and Butternut Squash Lasagna

• Author: Camiliya
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Serves approximately 6
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

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Description

Cottage Cheese and Butternut Squash Lasagna is a creamy, comforting dish layered with sweet butternut squash, nutritious cottage cheese, and melty mozzarella—a perfect meal for any occasion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 9 lasagna noodles (traditional or whole wheat)
• 2 cups low-fat cottage cheese
• 2 cups fresh butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 2 cups fresh spinach (or 1 cup frozen spinach)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 cups marinara sauce

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Boil water in a large pot; add cubed butternut squash and cook until tender, about 8 minutes. Drain well.
3. In a bowl, combine cottage cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, and Italian seasoning. Mix until well-blended.
4. Spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
5. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of the dish.
6. Place three lasagna noodles over the sauce, then add half of the cottage cheese mixture.
7. Layer half of the cooked butternut squash and one cup of spinach on top.
8. Add another layer of marinara sauce.
9. Repeat layers (noodles, cottage cheese mixture, butternut squash, spinach, marinara) until ingredients are used up.
10. Finish with noodles topped with remaining marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella.
11. Cover the lasagna with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
12. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until golden brown.
13. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 200g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: - For added flavor, experiment with spices like nutmeg or sage in your filling. - Substitute butternut squash with sweet potatoes if desired. - Allow leftovers to cool completely before storing in an airtight container for up to four days.