Pumpkin Lasagna Roll Ups with Crispy Sage

Introduction

There’s something magical about the arrival of fall. The air gets crisper, sweaters come out of storage, and pumpkin starts to make its way into everything—from lattes to pastries and, yes, even dinner. That’s where this recipe for Pumpkin Lasagna Roll Ups with Crispy Sage comes in. It’s the ultimate cozy meal, combining the rich, creamy flavors of pumpkin with the comforting familiarity of lasagna, all topped with crispy sage leaves that feel like a gourmet touch.

I still remember the first time I made this dish. It was a cool October evening, and I wanted something that captured the essence of the season but wasn’t the usual pumpkin pie or soup. After a little experimentation, this recipe was born. My family took one bite and immediately declared it a new fall favorite! Now, it’s a tradition to serve these roll-ups at least once a week while pumpkins are in season.

What makes this dish so special is its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The creamy pumpkin ricotta filling is spiced with a touch of nutmeg and cinnamon, giving it a sweet-savory note. The marinara sauce provides tanginess, while the melted mozzarella on top is just pure gooey perfection. And let’s not forget the crispy sage leaves—fried in butter until aromatic and crunchy—they’re the crowning glory that takes this dish to another level.

Whether you’re looking for a vegetarian main course to impress guests, a comforting weeknight dinner, or a make-ahead meal for busy days, these Pumpkin Lasagna Roll Ups deliver on all fronts. They’re simple enough for a beginner to pull off but sophisticated enough to earn you compliments every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are just a few reasons this dish will become a fall favorite in your home:

• Easy yet impressive: It’s simpler to prepare than it looks, but the presentation is elegant enough for dinner parties.
• Rich, cozy flavors: The pumpkin filling is creamy and spiced just right, while the sage adds a crispy, earthy topping.
• Perfect for make-ahead: You can assemble the roll-ups in advance and bake them when you’re ready to serve.
• Vegetarian-friendly: A hearty, meatless dish that even non-vegetarians will enjoy.

Trust me, your house will smell like a five-star restaurant, and your taste buds will thank you.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Servings: 4-6

Ingredients

Pumpkin Filling:

• 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Roll-Ups:

• 12 lasagna noodles, cooked until al dente
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Sauce:

• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup heavy cream

Crispy Sage:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 12-15 fresh sage leaves

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Lasagna Noodles

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the lasagna noodles until they’re just al dente. This typically takes about 8-10 minutes, but check your package instructions.
• Drain and lay the noodles flat on a baking sheet to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Pumpkin Filling

• In a medium mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well blended.
• Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. The filling should be flavorful on its own!

3. Assemble the Roll-Ups

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Spread about 2-3 tablespoons of the pumpkin filling evenly over each cooked lasagna noodle.
• Roll up the noodles tightly, starting from one end and rolling toward the other. Place the roll-ups seam-side down in a greased baking dish.

4. Make the Sauce

• In a small saucepan, heat the marinara sauce and heavy cream over medium heat. Stir until the mixture is warmed through and smooth.
• Pour the sauce evenly over the lasagna roll-ups in the baking dish.

5. Add the Topping

• Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the roll-ups.

6. Bake the Roll-Ups

• Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
• Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Prepare the Crispy Sage

• While the lasagna bakes, melt the butter in a small skillet over medium heat.
• Add the sage leaves and fry for 1-2 minutes, or until crispy. Be careful not to burn them!
• Transfer the sage leaves to a paper towel-lined plate and set aside.

8. Serve

• Once the lasagna roll-ups are out of the oven, garnish them with the crispy sage leaves.
• Serve hot and enjoy the combination of creamy, cheesy goodness with a pop of crispy sage!

How to Serve

This dish is incredibly versatile, and here are a few serving suggestions:

• With a salad: Pair it with a simple arugula or spinach salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette.
• Garlic bread: Serve with warm, crusty garlic bread to soak up the extra sauce.
• Wine pairing: A chilled sparkling water with a slice of lemon is the perfect refreshing complement.

Additional Tips

1. Don’t overcook the noodles: Al dente is key so they hold their shape during baking.
2. Use fresh pumpkin puree if possible: It adds a deeper, richer flavor.
3. Layer the sauce generously: Don’t skimp on the marinara and cream mixture—it keeps the roll-ups moist.
4. Crispy sage shortcut: If you’re short on time, sprinkle dried sage over the top instead of frying fresh leaves.
5. Let them cool slightly before serving: This helps the roll-ups firm up and makes them easier to plate.

Recipe Variations

• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles.
• Vegan option: Substitute the ricotta with cashew cream, the Parmesan with nutritional yeast, and the mozzarella with a vegan cheese alternative. Use a plant-based butter for the sage.
• Add protein: Mix cooked, shredded chicken into the pumpkin filling for a heartier dish.
• Herb swap: If you’re not a fan of sage, try crispy thyme or rosemary instead.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerating: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Assemble the roll-ups and freeze before baking. When ready to eat, bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cook time.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

FAQ Section

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the lasagna roll-ups up to 24 hours in advance. Cover them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, remove the cover and proceed as directed.

2. Can I freeze Pumpkin Lasagna Roll Ups?
Yes! These roll-ups are freezer-friendly. Assemble the dish but don’t bake it. Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and then foil. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C), adding 10-15 extra minutes to the cooking time.

3. Can I substitute the pumpkin puree?
If you’re out of pumpkin puree, butternut squash or sweet potato puree works beautifully as an alternative. Both offer a similar creamy texture and slightly sweet flavor.

4. What’s the best way to prevent the noodles from sticking together?
After cooking the noodles, drain them and lay them flat on a baking sheet. Drizzle a little olive oil over them to prevent sticking. This trick makes assembly much easier!

5. Can I make this recipe vegan or gluten-free?
Yes! For a vegan version, swap the ricotta with cashew cream, Parmesan with nutritional yeast, and mozzarella with vegan cheese. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free lasagna noodles and check your marinara sauce to ensure it’s gluten-free.

6. How do I ensure my sage is perfectly crispy?
The key is using butter at the right temperature—medium heat is best. Add the sage leaves once the butter begins to foam, and cook them just until crisp, usually 1-2 minutes. Remove them promptly to avoid burning.

7. Can I use pre-cooked lasagna sheets?
Yes, pre-cooked lasagna sheets are a time-saver. Make sure to soften them slightly in hot water so they’re pliable enough to roll without cracking.

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Conclusion

Pumpkin Lasagna Roll Ups with Crispy Sage isn’t just a recipe; it’s an experience. Each roll-up is a perfect bundle of cozy fall flavors, creamy textures, and a touch of sophistication with the crispy sage garnish. It’s the ultimate comfort food, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking for a hearty, delicious meal to share with family.

What makes this recipe truly special is how adaptable it is. Want to add protein? Toss in some shredded chicken or ground turkey. Need a dairy-free version? Swap out the cheeses for plant-based options. No matter how you tweak it, these roll-ups are guaranteed to bring smiles around the table.

So light a candle, pour yourself a glass of wine, and enjoy this culinary hug on a plate. If you try the recipe, don’t forget to share your experience. I’d love to hear your thoughts, tips, or any creative twists you’ve made. Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite!