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Cheesy Comfort: Melt-in-Your-Mouth Autumn Lasagna Casserole

Embrace the cozy flavors of fall with this Melt-in-Your-Mouth Autumn Lasagna Casserole. Perfectly layered with tender butternut squash, vibrant spinach, rich ricotta, and gooey mozzarella, this dish is a comforting delight for chilly evenings. Ideal for gatherings or family dinners, it's a hearty recipe that showcases the essence of autumn. Prepare it ahead of time for a quick bake and enjoy warm, cheesy goodness that will become a seasonal favorite.
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Ingredients
  

9 lasagna noodles

1 lb ground turkey or beef

1 medium onion, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup pumpkin puree

2 cups ricotta cheese

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

2 cups spinach, fresh or frozen (if using frozen, thaw and drain)

2 cups marinara sauce

1 teaspoon olive oil

Instructions
 

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

    In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain and set aside.

      Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for around 3-4 minutes until it becomes clear.

        Introduce the minced garlic into the skillet and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

          Add the ground turkey or beef to the skillet and cook until browned and thoroughly cooked, taking about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess grease.

            Mix in the pumpkin puree, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Combine well, then gently fold in the spinach and remove from heat.

              In a bowl, blend the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Stir until well mixed.

                Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce at the base of a 9x13 inch baking dish.

                  Place three lasagna noodles on top of the sauce. Layer one third of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by one third of the meat and pumpkin mixture, then drizzle one third of the remaining marinara sauce.

                    Repeat this layering process twice more, finishing with a top layer of noodles, the rest of the marinara, and the remaining mozzarella cheese.

                      Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

                        Let sit for 10 minutes before serving to allow the layers to firm up. Slice, serve, and indulge in this cozy autumn treat!

                          Prep Time: 30 min | Total Time: 1 hr 15 min | Servings: 6