Pumpkin Lasagna Roll-Ups with Crispy Sage Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dinner that feels a bit fancy but is totally doable, I’ve got you covered with my Pumpkin Lasagna Roll-Ups with Crispy Sage Recipe. I absolutely love how this dish combines creamy pumpkin and ricotta filling with melty mozzarella and that gorgeous crispy sage on top. It’s perfect for fall dinners when you want something warm and inviting but with a twist from your usual lasagna.

When I first tried this recipe, I was blown away by how the pumpkin adds a subtle sweetness that balances beautifully with the herbs and cheeses. You’ll find that it’s not just delicious but also a bit lighter than traditional lasagna, plus those crispy sage leaves? They bring such an elegant, earthy crunch that your whole family will go crazy for. Honestly, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and well worth trying any time you want something special yet homey.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients in this Pumpkin Lasagna Roll-Ups with Crispy Sage Recipe come together beautifully to create a balanced flavor and texture. I always recommend using fresh sage if possible, and picking good-quality cheeses for the best melt and flavor.

• Lasagna noodles: I usually make a whole box to have extras handy—in case some noodles break when boiling.
• Ricotta cheese: Choose a creamy ricotta for that smooth filling consistency.
• Pumpkin puree: Use pure pumpkin, not pie filling, for an authentic savory flavor.
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated adds the best nutty flavor—you can never go wrong with extra sprinkle on top.
• Egg: Helps bind the filling so it holds well inside the noodles.
• Dried sage: This adds subtle herbiness to the filling itself; don’t skip it!
• Salt and pepper: Key for seasoning throughout the dish.
• Mozzarella or provolone cheese: I go for mozzarella because it melts beautifully and stretches perfectly.
• Butter and all-purpose flour: For making the creamy béchamel sauce that dresses the roll-ups.
• Milk: Whole milk gives richness to the sauce.
• Freshly grated nutmeg: Just a pinch wakes up the béchamel with warm, subtle spice notes.
• Fresh sage leaves: For frying crispy and topping the finished dish.
• Additional butter: Used to crisp up the sage leaves to golden perfection.

Variations

I like to keep this recipe flexible because everyone’s taste buds (and dietary needs) vary. Sometimes I’ll swap the pumpkin for butternut squash puree or add a little cooked sausage into the filling for extra heartiness. Feel free to make it your own!

• Adding protein: My family loves when I stir in some cooked Italian sausage or spinach for an extra layer of flavor.
• Dairy-free version: Use a dairy-free ricotta alternative and plant-based milk for the béchamel to accommodate allergy needs.
• Herb swaps: If you don’t have sage, thyme or rosemary both work well—just remember to adjust quantities to avoid overpowering.
• Cheese variations: Mixing provolone and mozzarella can add a slightly smokier, richer profile if that’s your jam.

How to Make Pumpkin Lasagna Roll-Ups with Crispy Sage Recipe

Step 1: Boil and Prepare Your Lasagna Noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook your lasagna noodles according to package instructions—usually around 8 to 9 minutes. I always make a few extra noodles to give myself some wiggle room if one tears or sticks. Once cooked, carefully lay each noodle out in a single layer on a kitchen towel or parchment paper that you’ve sprayed with nonstick spray to avoid sticking. This lets them cool properly and keeps them ready for rolling.

Step 2: Mix the Pumpkin Ricotta Filling

In a large bowl, whisk together the ricotta, pumpkin puree, freshly grated parmesan, egg, dried sage, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. I like to add generous seasoning here because filling can taste bland without enough salt. Once combined, dollop about 3 tablespoons of filling onto each lasagna noodle and then spread it out evenly. I find it easiest to place the filling on all noodles first, then spread to keep things consistent.

Step 3: Add Mozzarella and Roll It Up

Sprinkle about 1½ cups of your grated mozzarella evenly over each filled noodle. This extra melty layer inside the roll-ups is pure magic. Once topped, carefully roll each noodle from one end, making sure it’s tight enough to hold but not squished. Placing them seam-side down will help them stay closed while baking.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Béchamel Sauce

In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat, then whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden. Next, slowly whisk in 2 cups of milk, stirring constantly to avoid any lumps. Keep whisking until the sauce thickens, around 3 to 4 minutes. Then reduce the heat and add salt, pepper, and a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg. A quick taste test here will help you decide if you want it more seasoned.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Pour about half a cup of the béchamel sauce into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish or an oven-safe skillet. Arrange your lasagna roll-ups seam-side down in the dish. Pour the remaining béchamel sauce evenly over the roll-ups, then sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella and a little parmesan on top. Pop it into your preheated 350°F oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until it’s bubbly and golden brown on top.

Step 6: Fry the Sage Leaves

While the roll-ups bake, heat a tablespoon of butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add about 15 fresh sage leaves and fry them for 1 to 2 minutes until they’re crisp and fragrant. They’ll darken just a bit and become irresistible crunchy little gems perfect for topping your finished dish.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, carefully remove the lasagna roll-ups from the oven and top with those crispy fried sage leaves. Sprinkle extra parmesan cheese if you want to add even more cheesy goodness. Serve hot and watch everyone’s eyes light up — this is definitely a dish to savor!

How to Serve Pumpkin Lasagna Roll-Ups with Crispy Sage Recipe

Garnishes

I always keep it simple with garnishes: crispy fried sage leaves are the star here, but I also love a sprinkle of extra parmesan and sometimes a drizzle of good-quality olive oil just before serving. A little cracked black pepper on top adds a nice finishing touch too.

Side Dishes

This recipe pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness. Roasted Brussels sprouts or a simple garlic sautéed spinach always round out the meal perfectly without taking away from the main event.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like arranging the roll-ups standing upright in a round oven-safe skillet so they look like little bundles. Adding a few fresh sage sprigs on the side makes the presentation rustic and beautiful. You can also drizzle balsamic glaze for a fancy touch that guests love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying the meal, I let leftovers cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They keep well for about 3-4 days, which makes for an easy lunch or second dinner that’s just as good.

Freezing

I’ve frozen these roll-ups successfully by wrapping each one tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to keep their creamy texture intact.

Reheating

To reheat, cover the roll-ups with foil and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, but baking retains the texture best. If the top dries out, a quick brush of béchamel or a sprinkle of cheese before reheating works wonders.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Lasagna Roll-Ups with Crispy Sage Recipe has quickly become one of my favorite fall dinners to make for friends and family. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate but still looks sophisticated enough for company. If you’re craving something cozy yet a little different from the usual, I really encourage you to give this recipe a try—I promise it’s worth every bite and the compliments that come with it!

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