If you’re craving a comforting dish that brings together the perfect harmony of sweet, savory, and a touch of tang, this Layered Sweet Potato, Pumpkin, Parsnip Lasagna topped with Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze is going to be your new favorite. Imagine tender slices of fall veggies layered with creamy ricotta and feta, the subtle earthiness of dried herbs, all crowned with a luscious cranberry-honey glaze that adds a beautiful shine and bursts of flavor. The Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze is not just a finishing touch but a star component that ties all the flavors together with its crunchy texture and sweet-tart charm.

Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe relies on simple, seasonal ingredients that bring out the natural sweetness and depth of flavor in every bite. Each element plays a vital role in building layers of texture and taste, making this dish as visually stunning as it is delicious.

Sweet potato (2 cups, peeled & thinly sliced): Adds natural sweetness and a creamy texture that complements the other root vegetables.
Pumpkin (2 cups, peeled & thinly sliced): Brings a slightly earthy, smooth flavor and vibrant color to the layers.
Parsnips (1½ cups, peeled & thinly sliced): Offers subtle sweetness with a bit of bite, balancing the dish’s flavors.
Ricotta cheese (1 cup): Provides a light creaminess that binds the layers without overpowering them.
Feta cheese (½ cup, crumbled): Adds a tangy, salty contrast to the sweet vegetables.
Pecans (½ cup, chopped & toasted): Imparts crunch and nutty richness essential for the Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze’s texture.
Dried thyme (1 tsp): Gives subtle herbal notes that enhance the savory profile.
Dried rosemary (1 tsp): Lends an aromatic depth that pairs beautifully with the root veggies.
Salt & black pepper (to taste): Enhances all the flavors, balancing sweet and savory.
Honey (2 tbsp): Sweetens the glaze naturally, melding perfectly with cranberry sauce.
Cranberry sauce (2 tbsp): Introduces fruity tartness central to the Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze.
Olive oil (1 tbsp): Adds richness and helps the glaze coat the layers evenly.
Cinnamon (½ tsp): Brings warmth to the glaze without being overpowering.
Shredded mozzarella (½ cup, optional): Creates a golden crust that melts beautifully on top.
Fresh herbs (thyme or parsley, for garnish): Adds a fresh and vibrant finish to the dish.

How to Make Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by preheating your oven to 190°C (375°F). Take your sweet potatoes, pumpkin, and parsnips, and slice them paper-thin using a sharp knife or mandoline. Thin slices ensure that the vegetables cook evenly and layer beautifully in your lasagna without overpowering the creamy cheese mixture.

Step 2: Mix the Cheese Filling

In a medium bowl, blend the ricotta, crumbled feta, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper. This cheese mixture adds a luscious, savory creaminess that balances the sweetness of the vegetables and complements the Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze perfectly.

Step 3: Whisk Together the Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk the honey, cranberry sauce, olive oil, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until everything is well combined. This glaze is where the magic happens — it delivers a sticky-sweet, tart, and warmly spiced layer that beautifully contrasts the mild, savory layers beneath it.

Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna Layers

Lightly grease your baking dish to prevent sticking. Begin with a layer of sweet potato slices, then spread a layer of the ricotta-feta mixture. Follow with pumpkin slices, another dollop of ricotta, then parsnips. Drizzle with the cranberry-honey glaze here and there as you layer. Sprinkle the toasted pecans throughout to scatter bursts of crunch. Repeat this layering until you reach the top of the dish.

Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches and Bake

For a golden crust, sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the top, if you like. Add one last drizzle of Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze for extra flavor and shine. Cover with foil and bake for 35 to 40 minutes to let the vegetables soften and the flavors meld. Then remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 10 to 15 minutes until the top is golden and bubbling. Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before slicing to help it set beautifully.

How to Serve Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze

Garnishes

Fresh thyme or parsley sprinkled on top adds a pop of green color and fresh herbal aroma that cuts through the richness. For an extra glossy, inviting look, a final spoonful of the Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze drizzled on the warm lasagna brightens both appearance and flavor.

Side Dishes

This lasagna is a hearty centerpiece but pairs wonderfully with a crisp, lightly dressed green salad or roasted Brussels sprouts. The fresh, bright sides balance the earthy, sweet layers enhanced by the Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual portions in small ramekins for an elegant touch at dinner parties. You can also sprinkle extra toasted pecans on top for added crunch or offer a bowl of extra glaze on the side for guests who love that special sweet-tart flavor boost.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover lasagna keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors of the Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze continue to develop, making each bite even more delicious the next day.

Freezing

This layered dish freezes well. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn, then store for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 175°C (350°F) covered with foil to avoid drying out, until warmed through—usually about 20 minutes. A quick extra drizzle of the Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze before serving will refresh its vibrant flavor.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of cranberry sauce for the glaze?

While fresh cranberries can be used, they require cooking down with sugar first to achieve the ideal thickness and sweetness that cranberry sauce provides, which is crucial for the balance in the Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze.

Is it possible to substitute the cheeses for a dairy-free version?

Yes, you can swap ricotta and feta with plant-based alternatives, such as tofu-based ricotta or vegan feta, though the texture and flavor will vary slightly. The glaze will remain just as delightful.

What if I don’t have parsnips? Can I replace them?

Absolutely! You can substitute with other root veggies like turnips or even carrots sliced thinly. Just remember that changing the vegetables will slightly adjust the flavor profile but still pair nicely with the glaze.

Can the Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze be made ahead of time?

The glaze is best made fresh for maximum brightness, but it can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Just whisk it again before using to reincorporate ingredients.

How do I get the vegetables to slice thinly without a mandoline?

If you don’t have a mandoline, use a very sharp knife and take your time to slice as evenly as possible. Even thickness helps the vegetables cook uniformly and layer nicely.

Final Thoughts

This dish is truly a celebration of fall flavors and textures, brought to life with the perfect touch of the Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze. It’s comforting, elegant, and wholesome all at once, making it an absolute joy to serve to yourself, family, or friends. Give it a try—you might just find a new favorite way to enjoy seasonal vegetables with a fun twist!