Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze Recipe

There is nothing quite as comforting and visually stunning as this Layered Sweet Potato, Butternut Squash & Carrot Lasagna with Feta, Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze. This dish brings together tender, earthy vegetables layered with a creamy, tangy cheese mixture and finished off with a golden, sweet, and slightly tart Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze that is simply irresistible. Perfect for cozy dinners or festive occasions, this lasagna combines vibrant fall flavors and textures in a way that will have everyone asking for seconds. Trust me, the Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze is the crowning glory that transforms this meal into an unforgettable celebration of taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these straightforward ingredients is the first delightful step toward creating a layered masterpiece. Each element is thoughtfully chosen to contribute to the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color in this dish.

• Sweet potato: Provides natural sweetness and a tender texture when thinly sliced.
• Butternut squash: Adds a lovely earthy flavor and a vibrant orange hue.
• Carrots: Offer a subtle crunch and a hint of natural sugar to round out the layers.
• Olive oil: Helps roast the vegetables to perfection while enhancing their natural flavors.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the wonderful tastes.
• Smoked paprika: Lends a warm, smoky depth to the vegetable blend.
• Feta cheese: Delivers a tangy, salty punch that contrasts the sweetness of the veggies.
• Ricotta cheese: Contributes a creamy, rich texture that binds the layers together.
• Greek yogurt: Adds a slight tang and smoothness while keeping the cheese layer light.
• Roasted garlic: Infuses subtle, caramelized savoriness throughout the cheese mix.
• Lemon juice: Brightens the cheese mixture with a refreshing citrus note.
• Honey: The base of the Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze, providing luscious sweetness.
• Dried cranberries: Impart a chewy texture and tartness balanced perfectly by honey.
• Pecans: Offer a satisfying crunch and buttery flavor in the glaze topping.
• Fresh thyme leaves: Deliver an herbaceous, fragrant touch to the glaze.

How to Make Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil. This ensures your lasagna doesn’t stick and bakes evenly. Taking this simple step early sets you up for success.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

Thinly slice the sweet potato, butternut squash, and carrots so they layer beautifully and cook uniformly. Toss the slices gently with olive oil, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika, coating each piece with warmth and seasoning that will shine during baking. This mix is the hearty foundation packed with natural sweetness and smokiness.

Step 3: Mix the Cheese Layer

In a bowl, crumble the feta and blend it with ricotta, Greek yogurt, roasted garlic, and lemon juice until silky and smooth. This mixture brings a luscious creaminess and tang that contrasts perfectly with the roasted vegetables, making each bite rich yet refreshing.

Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna

Start assembling by spreading half of the vegetable slices across the bottom of your baking dish. Then, layer half of the cheese mixture evenly above. Repeat with the remaining vegetables and cheese mixture. This alternating pattern ensures each forkful captures all the layers’ flavors and textures in harmony.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with foil to keep the moisture in and bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the vegetables are tender. Then, remove the foil and bake another 10 to 15 minutes to let the top brown lightly, creating an inviting golden finish. The aroma during this stage is simply mouthwatering.

Step 6: Prepare the Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze

While the lasagna bakes, gently warm honey in a small saucepan with chopped dried cranberries and fresh thyme leaves. This glaze balances luscious sweetness with tart fruitiness and herbaceous notes. Once your lasagna is out of the oven, drizzle this vibrant Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze over the top, then sprinkle with chopped pecans for an irresistible crunch and flavor boost.

How to Serve Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze

Garnishes

To make your lasagna presentation extra special, sprinkle a few fresh thyme sprigs on top after drizzling the glaze. A handful of extra chopped pecans or a light dusting of crumbled feta can also add delightful bursts of texture and flavor that enhance the overall experience.

Side Dishes

This vegetable lasagna pairs beautifully with light, crisp salads—think arugula with lemon vinaigrette or a simple mixed greens salad. A warm, crusty bread or soft garlic rolls also complement the creamy, layered flavors and make the meal more filling without overpowering the star dish.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, try layering individual portions in small ovenproof dishes or ramekins before baking. This not only makes serving elegant but also keeps the Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze in the spotlight. Alternatively, serve it family-style on a rustic platter, letting guests drizzle their own glaze for an interactive and fun table experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors from the Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze intensify overnight, making your next meal just as delicious, if not better, than fresh.

Freezing

This layered lasagna freezes beautifully. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for even cooking and best texture retention.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers covered in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. To keep the Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze from losing its freshness, drizzle additional glaze and garnish with fresh pecans after reheating for a vibrant finish.

FAQs

Can I substitute other nuts for pecans in the glaze?

Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds work well and bring their own unique crunch and flavor while complementing the sweetness of the honey and tartness of the cranberries.

Is it possible to make this lasagna vegan?

Yes, swap out the cheeses for plant-based alternatives and use maple syrup instead of honey for the glaze. The texture and flavors will be slightly different but still delicious!

Can I prepare the vegetable layers ahead of time?

Yes, you can slice and season the vegetables a day ahead. Store them covered in the fridge and assemble the lasagna just before baking to maintain freshness and texture.

What if I don’t have Greek yogurt?

Regular plain yogurt or sour cream can be used instead, though Greek yogurt adds a thicker, creamier texture that works beautifully in balancing the cheese layer.

How important is the smoked paprika?

Smoked paprika adds a wonderful depth and a subtle smoky warmth, but if you don’t have it, regular paprika or a pinch of chipotle powder can work as great alternatives.

Final Thoughts

This recipe invites you to savor every bite of fall’s finest flavors intertwined with creamy cheese and finished with the dazzling Pecans & Cranberry-Honey Glaze that steals the show. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or a special gathering, this lasagna promises warmth, comfort, and a celebration of taste you’ll want to keep coming back to. Give it a try and watch how the glaze transforms a simple vegetable lasagna into something unforgettable.

Print