Cheesy Butternut Squash Spinach Lasagna (Vegan, GF Optional)

Hey there, lasagna lovers! Ready to elevate your fall comfort food game? Our super Creamy and Cheesy Butternut Squash Spinach Lasagna is the cozy, plant-based dish you've been searching for. With seasonal butternut squash and nutrient-packed spinach, this vegan twist on an Italian classic is perfect for those crisp autumn nights. Let's get cooking!

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Oh, let me tell you, this lasagna is a game-changer! First, it's packed with nutrients that make you feel like a superhero. We're talking about butternut squash puree that's loaded with vitamins A and C and fresh spinach that's a powerhouse of iron and calcium. And let's not forget the creamy butternut squash sauce, which is basically liquid gold. It's a delicious vegetarian lasagna recipe that's as good for your body as it is for your soul.

Ease is the name of the game here. You don't need to be a culinary wizard to whip this up. With oven-ready noodles, there's no need to boil lasagna noodles, saving you time and a pot to wash; you can even make your own vegan noodles, if you feel like going all the way!

The butternut squash filling comes together in a blender, and you can even use frozen spinach if you're in a pinch. Just preheat your oven, layer up all that goodness in a casserole dish, and let the magic happen.

Now, let's talk versatility. This dish is perfect as a main meal or as a show-stopping side dish for a larger spread. It's inspired by our previous hit, the vegan butternut squash ravioli, but we've upped the ante with a spinach and mushroom filling. Whether you're meal prepping for the week or looking for a dish that'll impress at your next Fall season or Thanksgiving gathering, this lasagna has got you covered. Trust us, it's a winner in every sense! 🌟

Jump to:

• 🧾 Ingredients
• 🔪 Instructions
• 🥢 What to serve with lasagna?
• 🍶 Substitutions
• 📖 Variations
• 🍽 Equipment
• 🥡 Storage & Meal prep
• 💡 Top tip
• ❓ FAQ
• 📚 More Butternut Squash delicious recipes
• 📋 Recipe
• 🌡️ Food safety
• 💬 Reviews and Comments

🧾 Ingredients

This butternut squash lasagna is made with just a few delicious ingredients:

• Butternut Squash: Adds a creamy texture and sweet, nutty flavor to the lasagna, making it perfect for a fall dish.
• Garlic Cloves: Infuses the lasagna with a rich, aromatic depth that complements the sweetness of the squash.
• Vegan Mozzarella or Vegan Bechamel Sauce: Provides that gooey, cheesy texture we all crave without the dairy. We'll use it for both the spinach and butternut filling.
• Sage Leaves: Gives an earthy, aromatic kick that pairs well with the butternut squash.
• Nutritional Yeast: Adds a cheesy, umami flavor while keeping the dish plant-based. We'll use it for both the spinach and butternut filling.
• Sea Salt and Black Pepper: Enhances the flavors of all the other ingredients, making them pop.
• Oven-Ready Lasagna Noodles (Gluten-Free as Needed): The foundation of the lasagna, these save time and can be easily swapped for a gluten-free option.
• Spinach: Adds a nutritional punch and a vibrant green color, balancing out the richness of the other layers.
• Cremini Mushrooms: Provide an earthy flavor and meaty texture, making the dish more satisfying.
• Leeks: Adds a subtle, sweet undertone that complements the stronger flavors.

Optional ingredients

• Olive Oil (Extra Virgin): Helps sauté the veggies and adds a touch of richness to the filling.
• Homemade Vegan Parmesan Cheese: For that final sprinkle of cheesy magic, adding a layer of complexity to the dish.

See the recipe card for quantities.

🔪 Instructions

This spinach and butternut squash lasagna involves 3 simple steps.

1. Prepping squash.
2. Making fillings butternut and spinach.
3. Assembling and baking.

Prepare Squash

• Cut that squash in half and scoop out the seeds. You can roast them later for a snack!
• You've got options: either make roasted butternut squash, roasting it whole on a large baking sheet, or making butternut squash cubes, or steam the squash. Roasting brings out deep flavors, but steaming is quicker.

To Roast:

• Crank up that oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment.

To Steam:

Preheat oven.

Make Fillings

Butternut squash sauce

Assemble & Bake

If you roast the squash, lower the oven temp. If not, preheat to 350°F.

Time to layer! IOil a 9x13 baking dish with cooking spray.

Top it off with the remaining sauce and some optional vegan parmesan. Pop it in the oven for 30 minutes.

For that golden touch, switch to the grill function for the last 2 minutes.

Cool & Serve

Let it chill for a bit, like 5-10 minutes. Garnish with basil and vegan parmesan, and you're ready to feast!

🥢 What to serve with lasagna?

• Classic Italian: Pair your Butternut Squash Mushroom Lasagna with a simple side salad featuring arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a balsamic vinaigrette. Add some vegan garlic bread, made with artisan bread and you've got yourself an Italian feast.
• Comfort Food Vibes: Serve the lasagna alongside some steamed green beans, steamed Brussels, or roasted Brussels sprouts for a comforting, homey meal. A dollop of vegan sour cream on the side wouldn't hurt either.
• Creative Twist: How about a lasagna soup? Hear me out. Take a slice of your baked lasagna and place it in a bowl. Pour some hot, seasoned vegetable broth around it, and garnish with fresh basil and a sprinkle of vegan parmesan. It's like lasagna but in a cozy, slurpable form.

🍶 Substitutions

Play with subs, as you go. This butternut squash and spinach can take many small tweaks.

• Butternut Squash: Swap it out for acorn squash or pumpkin for a similar creamy texture and autumnal flavor.
• Garlic Cloves: If you're out of fresh garlic, garlic powder or minced garlic can work in a pinch.
• Vegan Mozzarella or Vegan Bechamel Sauce: You can use cashew cream sauce or vegan creamy ricotta cheese (recipe) to make a ricotta mixture as a cheesy alternative.
• Sage Leaves: Rosemary or thyme can be used if you're fresh out of sage. They both offer a robust, earthy flavor.
• Nutritional Yeast: If you're out, you can use vegan parmesan cheese or a dash of soy sauce for that umami kick.
• Sea Salt and Black Pepper: Himalayan pink salt can replace sea salt, and white pepper can stand in for black pepper if needed.
• Oven-Ready Lasagna Noodles: You can use regular lasagna noodles (just pre-cook them), gluten-free noodles, or even thinly sliced zucchini for a low-carb option.
• Spinach: Kale or Swiss chard can be used as a green, leafy substitute. They both offer a similar nutritional profile.
• Cremini Mushrooms: Portobello or white mushrooms can be used. If you're feeling adventurous, try shiitake for a different texture and flavor.
• Leeks: Green onions or shallots can be used if leeks aren't available. They both offer a mild, sweet flavor.

📖 Variations

This squash and spinach lasagna is highly customizable. Here are some variations we have tried:

• Spicy Kick: We loved adding double the freshly ground pepper, it is not super spicy and gave it a very interesting kick! You can also add some red pepper flakes to the spinach and mushroom sauté for a bit of heat. You can also drizzle a spicy chili oil on top before serving to really turn up the heat.
• Protein-Packed: Incorporate some crumbled vegan sausage or tempeh into the mushroom and spinach layer. This will add extra protein and a different texture to the dish.
• Seasonal Twist: For a winter version, add roasted chestnuts to the butternut squash filling. It'll give your lasagna a festive, nutty flavor that's perfect for the holiday season.

🍽 Equipment

• Blender (affiliate link)or Food Processor (affiliate link): This gadget is your best friend for creating a creamy butternut squash sauce. Whether you're using a blender or a food processor, you'll get that velvety texture you're aiming for.
• Large Saucepan (affiliate link): Specifically for sautéing your spinach and mushroom filling. The size matters here; you'll want enough space to cook your veggies without them getting soggy.
• Basket Steamer (affiliate link): A quick and efficient way to cook your butternut squash. It fits right into a large pot, making it super convenient for steaming the squash to perfection in less time.
• Lasagna Baking Dish (affiliate link): The final destination for all your prepped ingredients. A 9 x 13-inch glass or ceramic dish is perfect for layering your no-boil noodles, fillings, and sauce, and it's oven-safe for that golden-brown finish.

🥡 Storage & Meal prep

In the Fridge:

1. Cool Down: Allow the lasagna to cool to room temperature.
2. Wrap It Up: Cover the lasagna dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer individual slices to airtight containers.
3. Fridge Time: Store in the fridge for up to 4-5 days.

Reheating from the Fridge:

1. Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Place the lasagna in an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
2. Microwave Method: Place a slice in a microwave-safe dish and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway to ensure even heating.

Freezing and Reheating:

Freezing:

1. Cool & Slice: Allow the lasagna to cool completely and slice into portions.
2. Wrap: Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a zip-top bag or airtight container.
3. Freeze: Store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating from Frozen:

1. Thaw: For best results, thaw the lasagna in the fridge overnight.
2. Oven Reheat: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Place the lasagna in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake for 30-35 minutes or until hot and bubbly.

Meal Prep Option:

1. Prep Components: Make the butternut squash sauce and spinach-mushroom filling in advance. Store them in separate airtight containers in the fridge.
2. Assembly Day: On the day you plan to cook, simply layer your no-boil noodles, pre-made fillings, and sauce in your lasagna dish and bake as directed.

❓ FAQ

📚 More Butternut Squash delicious recipes

Don't forget to check our sweet butternut squash casserole! As show stopper for your Thanksgiving table!

⭐ If you try this meatless vegetable lasagna recipe, let us know! 💬 Leave a comment, rate it, and don't forget to tag us @ourplantbasedworld on Instagram. Cheers!

📋 Recipe