Name: Sausage Kale Butternut Squash Lasagna
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 lasagna noodles; 1 lb mild Italian sausage; 4 cups butternut squash cubes; 4 cups chopped kale; 15 oz ricotta cheese; 2 cups mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1/2 tsp fennel seed; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper

Delicious Sausage Kale Butternut Squash Lasagna dish served on a plate

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why make this recipe

Sausage Kale Butternut Squash Lasagna is a delicious twist on a classic dish. This lasagna is not only comforting but also packed with nutrients. The combination of mild Italian sausage, hearty kale, and sweet butternut squash makes each bite a delight. It’s perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies!

how to make Sausage Kale Butternut Squash Lasagna

Ingredients

12 lasagna noodles
1 lb mild Italian sausage
4 cups butternut squash cubes
4 cups chopped kale
15 oz ricotta cheese
2 cups mozzarella
1/2 cup Parmesan
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1/2 tsp fennel seed
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

Directions

Heat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the lasagna noodles until they are just flexible, then drain them.
In a baking sheet, toss the butternut squash cubes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and roast until tender. Once roasted, mash the squash with chicken broth, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper until smooth.
In a skillet, brown the sausage with the diced onion, minced garlic, and fennel seed until there is no pink left in the sausage. Add in chopped kale and cook until the kale is wilted.
Spread some of the squash sauce in a baking dish. Layer the noodles, ricotta cheese, sausage-kale mixture, mozzarella cheese, and more squash sauce. Repeat these layers.
Finish with a layer of Parmesan cheese on top. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. After that, uncover it and bake for another 15 minutes until the center is hot and bubbling.
Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

how to serve Sausage Kale Butternut Squash Lasagna

Serve warm, sliced into squares. This lasagna pairs well with a side salad, garlic bread, or a light vegetable soup. Garnish with fresh basil or additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

how to store Sausage Kale Butternut Squash Lasagna

To store leftovers, allow the lasagna to cool completely. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, bake it in the oven or microwave until heated through.

tips to make Sausage Kale Butternut Squash Lasagna

You can use whole wheat or gluten-free lasagna noodles for a healthier option.
Try adding other vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrients.
Make the squash sauce ahead of time to save time on the day you plan to serve the lasagna.

variation

For a vegetarian version, you can omit the sausage and substitute it with mushrooms or zucchini. You can also use lentils for added protein and texture.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute mozzarella and ricotta with cottage cheese or any cheese of your choice.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the lasagna up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate it overnight. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

How do I make it spicier?
You can add red pepper flakes to the sausage mixture or use spicy Italian sausage instead.