Pumpkin Lasagna Roll Ups with Crispy Sage Recipe

If you’re craving a twist on classic comfort food, the Pumpkin Lasagna Roll Ups with Crispy Sage Recipe are going to become your new go-to. This dish marries the creamy richness of pumpkin and ricotta with the melty goodness of mozzarella, all wrapped in tender lasagna noodles and elevated by the irresistible crunch and earthiness of crispy sage. It’s a beautiful balance of cozy autumn flavors, warm textures, and a little bit of elegant flair that makes every bite feel like a celebration. Whether it’s a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is as impressive as it is comforting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the ingredient list intimidate you — these simple essentials each play a vital role in creating the luscious layers of taste and texture that make Pumpkin Lasagna Roll Ups with Crispy Sage Recipe so memorable. From creamy cheeses to fragrant spices, every element is thoughtfully chosen.

• Lasagna noodles (12 to 15): The perfect soft yet sturdy base for rolling up all those delicious fillings.
• Ricotta cheese (12 ounces): Adds a smooth, creamy texture that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.
• Pumpkin puree (1 can, 15 ounces): Brings natural sweetness and a lovely autumnal color to the dish.
• Parmesan cheese (1 cup, finely grated plus extra for sprinkling): Delivers a sharp, nutty flavor and a hint of saltiness to brighten the filling and topping.
• Large egg (1): Acts as a binder to keep the filling perfectly creamy but firm inside the roll ups.
• Dried sage (¼ teaspoon): Infuses the filling with that classic herbaceous warmth associated with fall dishes.
• Kosher salt and pepper: Essential seasonings, balancing and enhancing all the other flavors.
• Mozzarella or provolone cheese (2 cups, freshly grated): Gives luscious melty cheesiness on top of and inside the roll ups for ooey-gooey satisfaction.
• Butter (3 tablespoons total): Used both in the creamy sauce and to crisp up the sage leaves for a flavorful crunch.
• All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons): Thickens the white sauce, giving it that silky, smooth texture.
• Milk (2 cups): Creates the comforting béchamel base that blankets the entire dish.
• Freshly grated nutmeg (¼ teaspoon): Adds subtle warmth and spice, enhancing the pumpkin’s natural flavors.
• Fresh sage leaves (about 15): Crisped in butter, they provide an aromatic, crispy topping that’s simply divine.

How to Make Pumpkin Lasagna Roll Ups with Crispy Sage Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Noodles

Begin by boiling salted water and cooking the lasagna noodles until they’re just tender but still hold their shape, roughly 8 to 9 minutes. Cooking extra noodles beyond the 12 you need is a smart backup — noodles can be delicate and prone to breaking. Once cooked, carefully lay them flat on a slightly damp kitchen towel or parchment paper sprayed with nonstick spray to prevent sticking. This step sets the stage for perfectly rollable noodles that won’t tear during assembly.

Step 2: Mix the Pumpkin Ricotta Filling

In a large bowl, whisk together ricotta cheese, pumpkin puree, grated parmesan, a whole egg, dried sage, salt, and pepper. The egg helps bind everything together, while the dried sage adds a warm, earthy note. This mixture is where the magic happens — creamy, mildly sweet, and herbaceous, perfectly balanced to fill each noodle with rich, flavorful goodness.

Step 3: Assemble the Roll Ups

Spread about 3 tablespoons of the pumpkin ricotta filling evenly over each noodle. A helpful tip is to dollop the filling on all noodles before spreading, so none get left behind. Next, sprinkle the grated mozzarella generously over the filling before rolling up each noodle tightly from one end to the other, rolling into neat little cylinders packed with creamy pumpkin and melty cheese.

Step 4: Make the Creamy White Sauce

In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat, then whisk in flour and cook until golden and fragrant, about 2 to 3 minutes. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps, until the mixture thickens into a smooth béchamel sauce, typically 3 to 4 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and freshly grated nutmeg, tasting to adjust seasoning. This sauce will lavishly coat the roll ups and add silky richness.

Step 5: Bake the Lasagna Roll Ups

Pour a thin layer of the white sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish or an oven-safe skillet. Arrange the roll ups seam-side down in the dish snugly. Pour the remaining sauce all over the top of the roll ups, then sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella and a little parmesan cheese on top. Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 25 to 30 minutes until bubbling and golden — the cheese browns beautifully, signaling the dish is ready to wow your taste buds.

Step 6: Prepare the Crispy Sage

While the roll ups bake, melt butter in a skillet and add fresh sage leaves. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the leaves turn crispy and fragrant, creating the perfect garnish that brings both texture and aroma to this comforting dish.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the lasagna roll ups from the oven, allow them to cool just slightly, then top with the crispy sage leaves. Serve hot with extra parmesan cheese on the side for sprinkling. Each bite offers creamy, cheesy comfort punctuated by the fresh, crisp burst of sage leaves.

How to Serve Pumpkin Lasagna Roll Ups with Crispy Sage Recipe

Garnishes

Crispy sage leaves are the star garnish here, adding a deep herbal crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pumpkin filling. A light sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan right before serving adds an extra touch of salty richness. For a pop of color, consider adding a few small sage sprigs or even a drizzle of good quality olive oil to finish the plate with finesse.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with bright, fresh sides to balance the richness. Think a simple arugula salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette or roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze. The freshness of greens and the acidity from a vinaigrette help cut through the creamy lasagna’s indulgence, making the meal feel lively and well-rounded.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving guests or want to elevate this comforting meal, consider baking the roll ups in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets. Serving them in personal portions is charming and makes for an elegant presentation. Another idea is to sprinkle toasted pumpkin seeds on top for added crunch or swirl in a touch of browned butter sauce infused with chopped sage for extra depth of flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more beautifully after a day or two, making for a perfect next-day meal.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked roll ups or the baked dish. For unbaked, assemble and arrange the roll ups in your baking dish, cover tightly with foil and plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 2 months. For baked leftovers, cool completely before wrapping tightly and freezing. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat refrigerated portions in the oven at 350°F until warmed through and bubbly, about 15 to 20 minutes. Microwaving is quicker but reheating in the oven helps maintain texture and flavor, especially for the crispy sage topping which can be re-crisped separately in a skillet if desired.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Yes! If using fresh pumpkin, roast and puree it until smooth. Be sure to remove excess moisture by cooking down the puree slightly to prevent a watery filling.

Is this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! The Pumpkin Lasagna Roll Ups with Crispy Sage Recipe contains no meat. Just double-check your cheeses are made without animal rennet if you prefer a stricter vegetarian option.

What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

Cottage cheese (well drained) is a decent substitute, though ricotta’s creaminess and mild flavor are harder to replicate exactly. You could also try blending cream cheese with a little sour cream to mimic the texture.

How spicy is the dish?

This recipe is mild and centered on warm, earthy flavors. If you prefer a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes in the filling or sauce can add subtle spice without overpowering the core flavors.

Can I make this vegan?

To make it vegan, substitute dairy cheeses with plant-based alternatives, use a flax egg instead of a chicken egg, and select a non-dairy milk for the béchamel sauce. The crispy sage garnish remains the same and delicious.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the Pumpkin Lasagna Roll Ups with Crispy Sage Recipe that brings warmth and festive comfort to any meal. It’s a dish that feels both cozy and sophisticated, perfect for sharing with loved ones, impressing guests, or just treating yourself to a slice of autumn magic. I hope you give this recipe a whirl and fall in love with its creamy, cheesy goodness crowned with that unforgettable crispy sage. Trust me — once you try it, it will become a cherished favorite!

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