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Homemade Yellow Squash Lasagna

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This yellow squash lasagna swaps pasta noodles for thin-sliced golden squash, creating a lighter, veggie-forward comfort dish that still delivers on richness and flavor. Layers of lemon-brightened ricotta, wilted spinach, marinara, and melted mozzarella come together in a dish that slices cleanly and bakes up with a beautiful golden crust. It's a make-ahead-friendly option perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Prep Time 35 minutes
Cook Time 1 minute
Total Time 36 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian

Ingredients
  

For the Ricotta Filling
  • 2 cups whole milk ricotta
  • 1/3 cup parmesan cheese grated
  • 3 tbsp fresh basil finely ribboned
  • 2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 large egg room temperature
  • 1 tsp fresh lemon zest
For the Layers
  • 4 large yellow squash sliced 1/8-inch thick
  • 4 cups fresh baby spinach wilted and squeezed dry
  • 2 1/4 cups marinara sauce
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella
  • 2 tsp dried parsley

Equipment

  • Mandoline slicer
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Microwave-safe bowl
  • Clean kitchen towel
  • Aluminum foil

Method
 

  1. Using a mandoline slicer or sharp knife, cut the yellow squash into 1/8-inch thick rounds. Lay the slices out between layers of paper towels, sprinkle lightly with salt, and allow them to rest for 15 minutes — this draws out excess moisture and helps prevent a watery lasagna. While the squash drains, preheat your oven to 375°F.
  2. In a large bowl, mix together the ricotta, parmesan, fresh basil, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, salt, black pepper, egg, and lemon zest. Stir until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined. In a separate microwave-safe bowl, microwave the fresh spinach with a splash of water for 3 minutes until fully wilted, then transfer it to a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible — thoroughly dry spinach is key to keeping the layers from becoming soggy.
  3. Spread about 1/3 cup of marinara sauce in an even layer across the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Arrange one-third of the salted squash slices on top, then spread half of the ricotta mixture evenly over the squash, followed by half of the wilted spinach. Add another drizzle of marinara sauce and sprinkle with one-third of the shredded mozzarella.
  4. Build a second layer starting with another third of the squash slices, followed by the remaining ricotta mixture, the remaining spinach, more marinara sauce, and another third of the mozzarella. Finish the lasagna with the final layer of squash slices, the remaining marinara sauce spread evenly on top, and the last of the mozzarella sprinkled over everything.
  5. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake at 375°F for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking uncovered for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling at the edges.
  6. Take the lasagna out of the oven and let it rest, uncovered, for 15 minutes before slicing. This resting time allows the layers to firm up so each portion holds its shape when served. Sprinkle with dried parsley before serving.

Notes

Zucchini can be substituted for yellow squash in equal amounts — slice it to the same 1/8-inch thickness and follow the same steps. You can assemble this lasagna up to 24 hours ahead, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate; add 10 to 15 minutes to the covered bake time when cooking straight from the fridge. Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days; reheat individual slices in the microwave for 1 to 2 minutes or warm larger portions in a 350°F oven covered with foil. The assembled unbaked lasagna can also be frozen for up to 2 months — wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed. This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your marinara sauce and other packaged ingredients are free of hidden gluten.

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