Layered Sweet Potato Lasagna with Cranberry-Honey Glaze Recipe

If you’re searching for a dish that brings together comforting layers of vibrant vegetables with a touch of sweet and tangy magic, look no further than this Layered Sweet Potato Lasagna with Cranberry-Honey Glaze Recipe. It’s a genuinely delightful twist on traditional lasagna, swapping pasta sheets for colorful root veggies like sweet potatoes, butternut squash, and parsnips. The creamy ricotta and tangy feta provide richness, while the crunchy walnuts add texture, all tied together with a luscious cranberry-honey glaze that elevates every bite. This recipe is like a warm hug plated with autumn flavors, perfect for cozy dinners or special gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients may look simple, but each one plays a vital role in the harmony of this Layered Sweet Potato Lasagna with Cranberry-Honey Glaze Recipe. From the earthy sweetness of the root vegetables to the velvety cheeses and the bright, sticky glaze, it’s a beautiful balance of tastes and textures that you’ll fall in love with.

• 2 medium sweet potatoes: Peeled and thinly sliced, these create the main layer, bringing natural sweetness and vibrant color.
• 2 cups butternut squash: Also peeled and sliced thin, they add a smooth, velvety texture and subtle flavor.
• 2 large parsnips: Their slightly nutty taste perfectly complements the sweet potato and squash.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For coating the veggies and ensuring a tender, roasted finish.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for drawing out flavors and seasoning every layer.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: A touch of warmth to balance the natural sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Earthy herbal notes that add depth to the dish.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a gentle, savory hint without overpowering the veggies.
• 1 cup feta cheese: Crumbled on top for a salty, tangy punch that contrasts beautifully.
• 1/2 cup walnuts: Chopped to bring a delightful crunch and subtle bitterness.
• 1 cup ricotta cheese: Combined with milk and egg, it creates a creamy, delicate binder between layers.
• 1/2 cup milk: Keeps the ricotta mixture silky and smooth.
• 1 large egg: Helps set the ricotta layers to hold everything together.
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg: A warm spice that lends a cozy, comforting aroma to the ricotta mix.
• 1/2 cup cranberry juice (non-alcoholic): The base for the signature glaze, offering bright flavor and a hint of acidity.
• 2 tablespoons honey: Sweetens the glaze naturally and balances the tartness of the cranberries.
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice: Adds freshness and keeps the glaze vibrant and zesty.

How to Make Layered Sweet Potato Lasagna with Cranberry-Honey Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This simple step sets the stage for a smooth layering process and helps prevent sticking, ensuring your lasagna comes out beautifully intact.

Step 2: Toss Your Veggies

In a large bowl, toss the peeled and thinly sliced sweet potatoes, butternut squash, and parsnips with olive oil, salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and garlic powder until every slice is well coated. This seasoning blend elevates the natural flavors of each vegetable and adds an inviting aromatic touch.

Step 3: Mix the Ricotta Filling

In a separate bowl, whisk together ricotta cheese, milk, egg, and a pinch of nutmeg until perfectly smooth and creamy. This luscious mixture will help bind the layers together and bring a velvety richness to the dish without overwhelming the delicate vegetable flavors.

Step 4: Build the First Layer

Spread a thin layer of the ricotta mixture evenly on the bottom of your prepared baking dish. This base layer prevents the vegetables from sticking and starts the creamy foundation that makes every bite indulgent.

Step 5: Add Sweet Potato and Ricotta Layer

Arrange a layer of sweet potato slices over the ricotta, then dollop on more of the ricotta mixture and sprinkle generously with crumbled feta cheese. This combination balances sweet and salty elements and creates exciting contrasts in every mouthful.

Step 6: Layer the Butternut Squash and Walnuts

Add a layer of butternut squash slices, top with more ricotta, and scatter chopped walnuts on top. The nuts bring a welcome crunchiness, while the squash continues the natural sweetness, keeping things interesting for your palate.

Step 7: Finish with Parsnips, Ricotta, Feta, and Walnuts

Repeat the layering with parsnips, adding ricotta, feta, and the remaining walnuts. This final vegetable layer rounds out the earthy and sweet medley, with hints of nutty texture that keep every bite lively.

Step 8: Bake Covered

Cover the dish with foil, then bake in your preheated oven for 40 minutes. This covered baking step steams the layers, softening all those beautiful veggies and allowing the flavors to meld perfectly.

Step 9: Bake Uncovered to Finish

Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15 minutes. This allows the top to turn lightly golden and gives the veggies a lovely roasted finish, adding a touch of texture contrast to the creamy layers beneath.

Step 10: Prepare the Cranberry-Honey Glaze

While your lasagna bakes, combine cranberry juice, honey, and lemon juice in a small saucepan. Simmer gently for 8-10 minutes until the mixture thickens into a glossy glaze that’s bursting with sweet-tart flavor—a perfect finishing touch for the dish.

Step 11: Glaze and Serve

Just before serving, drizzle the cranberry-honey glaze generously over your warm lasagna. This final flourish brightens every bite and elevates this unique layered dish into an unforgettable culinary experience.

How to Serve Layered Sweet Potato Lasagna with Cranberry-Honey Glaze Recipe

Garnishes

For a beautiful presentation, sprinkle extra chopped walnuts on top after glazing, and consider adding a few fresh thyme leaves or a light scattering of crumbled feta. These simple garnishes not only provide a lovely visual contrast but also add bursts of flavor that complement the lasagna perfectly.

Side Dishes

This layered masterpiece pairs wonderfully with crisp, fresh salads—think arugula with a balsamic vinaigrette or a winter citrus salad to echo the glaze’s brightness. A side of crusty whole-grain bread or garlic-roasted green beans can round out the meal for a satisfying balance of textures.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving guests, consider plating individual portions on warm ceramic dishes and switching up the glaze drizzle for a more artistic style—use a spoon to create zigzags or dots for extra charm. You can also serve this lasagna family-style with the cranberry-honey glaze in a small bowl on the side for dipping or additional drizzling.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Layered Sweet Potato Lasagna with Cranberry-Honey Glaze Recipe keeps beautifully for up to four days in the refrigerator. Store leftovers in an airtight container to preserve moisture and freshness, making for an easy and equally delicious next-day meal.

Freezing

You can freeze this lasagna before baking or after it has cooled post-baking. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. Frozen, it will stay good for up to two months, giving you a convenient option for future cozy dinners.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, then warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, covered loosely with foil to keep it moist. You can remove the foil in the last few minutes to re-crisp the top. The glaze can be reapplied or warmed gently on the side to refresh its brightness.

FAQs

Can I use other vegetables instead of parsnips and butternut squash?

Absolutely! Root vegetables like carrots or even sweet beets would work wonderfully and bring their own unique flavors and colors to your layered lasagna.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, it’s completely vegetarian-friendly as it relies on cheeses and vegetables without any meat or fish products.

Can I make this dish vegan?

To make it vegan, substitute the ricotta and feta with plant-based cheese alternatives, replace the egg with a flax egg or other egg replacers, and use a vegan-friendly cranberry juice and honey substitute like maple syrup.

How thick should I slice the vegetables?

Try to slice your sweet potatoes, squash, and parsnips fairly thin—about 1/8 inch. Thin slices cook evenly and make layering easier, resulting in a tender and cohesive lasagna.

What if I don’t have fresh cranberries for the glaze?

No worries! The glaze uses cranberry juice, so fresh cranberries aren’t necessary. Just be sure to use pure cranberry juice without added sugars or flavors for the best glaze consistency and taste.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Layered Sweet Potato Lasagna with Cranberry-Honey Glaze Recipe a try soon. It’s a stunning combination of simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary that’s perfect for any occasion. Each bite tells a warm and delicious story of comforting home cooking elevated with a touch of elegance. Trust me, once you taste this, it will become one of your go-to favorites to share with family and friends.

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