Name: Butternut Squash Pasta with Crispy Sage
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 5 cups peeled butternut squash (cut into 1-½-inch cubes); ½ cup sliced yellow onion (or shallot); ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil; Kosher salt (to taste); ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper; ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 2 cloves garlic (finely chopped); ¼ cup fresh sage leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried sage or thyme); 2½ cups vegetable broth (warmed); ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving); 2 tablespoons butter; 12 ounces dried short pasta (such as rigatoni, shells, or ziti)

Introduction to Butternut Squash Pasta

When life gets busy, young professionals often seek quick yet nutritious meals to fuel their day. Enter butternut squash pasta—a delightful dish that combines creamy flavors with the earthy sweetness of roasted butternut squash. Packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, this dish not only nourishes your body but also delights your taste buds.

Imagine coming home after a long workday, eager to whip up something scrumptious without spending hours in the kitchen. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. By utilizing just a handful of ingredients—like wholesome butternut squash, garlic, and fresh sage—you can create a restaurant-quality meal in about 40 minutes. Moreover, the golden hue of the sauce is not just visually appealing; it’s also a fantastic source of antioxidants.

For those looking to elevate their evening dining experience, this butternut squash pasta pairs beautifully with a refreshing salad or a side of crusty bread. If you’re considering meal prep, this recipe is even better the next day! Feel free to explore more about the nutritional benefits of butternut squash through resources like the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health for added inspiration.

Ingredients for Butternut Squash Pasta

Essential Ingredients for a Delectable Dish

When it comes to creating the perfect butternut squash pasta, having the right ingredients is key to building those rich, comforting flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:

Butternut Squash: About 5 cups of peeled and cubed butternut squash bring a naturally sweet, creamy base for the sauce.
Onion or Shallot: A half-cup of sliced onion (or shallots if you prefer a milder taste) adds a savory depth to the dish.
Olive Oil: A quarter-cup of extra virgin olive oil is essential for roasting the squash and enhancing the overall flavor.
Spices and Herbs: Kosher salt, crushed red pepper, black pepper, and fresh sage (or dried if that’s what you have) elevate the dish with warmth and earthiness.
Garlic: Two cloves, finely chopped, add fragrance and flavor that pairs beautifully with the squash.
Vegetable Broth: Warmed broth makes the sauce luxurious and helps achieve a perfectly smooth consistency.
Parmesan Cheese & Butter: These enrich the sauce, making it wonderfully creamy.

With these simple yet flavorful ingredients, your butternut squash pasta will surely be a hit. Want more tips on types of pasta to use? Check out these pasta varieties.

Preparing Butternut Squash Pasta

Creating a delectable butternut squash pasta dish is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a wonderfully satisfying cooking experience. Here’s how to make it easy and enjoyable!

Preheat the oven and prepare ingredients

Begin your culinary adventure by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This step is crucial because a hot oven will help caramelize the squash, bringing out that sweet, nutty flavor we all love. While the oven heats, take this opportunity to peel and cube your butternut squash. You’ll want about 5 cups of cubes, so consider using precut squash from your local grocery store to save time! Also, slice half a cup of yellow onion or shallot and have the rest of your ingredients ready at hand. Trust me, a little prep work upfront will make the cooking process flow much smoother.

Roast the butternut squash and onion

Once the oven is toasty, toss your prepared butternut squash and sliced onion on a rimmed baking sheet. Drizzle them generously with ¼ cup of extra virgin olive oil and season with kosher salt, crushed red pepper, and freshly ground black pepper. It’s key to arrange everything in a single layer for even roasting. Let them roast for about 15 minutes, then add the garlic and sage. Stir everything around, and continue roasting for another 10-15 minutes until the squash is tender and the edges of the onion are beautifully browned.

Blend the sauce for an ultra-smooth texture

Now comes the fun part! Scoop out 1½ cups of the roasted mixture and set it aside. The remainder should go into a food processor or blender, along with 2 cups of warmed vegetable broth, ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and 2 tablespoons of butter. Blend until the sauce is silky smooth. If it’s too thick for your liking, don’t hesitate to add a little extra broth. Keeping the sauce warm while you cook the pasta is essential to maintain that creamy, dreamy consistency.

Cook the pasta to al dente perfection

Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and add about 2 tablespoons of kosher salt. Toss in 12 ounces of your favorite short pasta, like rigatoni or shells, and cook until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes—so keep an eye on it! Once cooked, drain the pasta and transfer it to a large serving bowl.

Combine pasta with sauce and serve

Finally, it’s time to bring everything together. Add the smooth butternut squash sauce into the bowl with the pasta, along with the reserved roasted squash cube mix. Toss it well to ensure every piece of pasta is enveloped in that flavorful sauce. Serve hot with extra Parmesan cheese on top for good measure.

Embrace the warmth and rich flavors of this butternut squash pasta, perfect for a cozy evening!

Variations on Butternut Squash Pasta

Adding Protein: Chicken Ham or Turkey Bacon

Elevate your butternut squash pasta by adding some protein! Sauté strips of chicken ham or crumble turkey bacon into your dish for a savory, umami-rich boost. Not only do they add flavor, but they also make this dish heartier—perfect for those busy weeknights when you're craving something filling yet nutritious.

Vegetarian Add-Ins: Spinach or Kale

For a vibrant twist, consider tossing in some spinach or kale. These leafy greens not only bring a burst of color to your butternut squash pasta but also pack a nutritious punch. Spinach wilts beautifully into the warm pasta, while kale offers a delightful texture that complements the creamy sauce. Whether you’re a meat-lover or a veggie enthusiast, you’ll appreciate these delicious alternatives!

For more ideas on healthy pasta variations, check out resources like Healthline or EatingWell.

Cooking tips for Butternut Squash Pasta

How to save time with pre-cut squash

If you're short on time but craving that deliciously creamy butternut squash pasta, consider picking up pre-cut squash from your local grocery store. This not only shaves off your prep time but also makes it easy to whip up a weeknight dinner without the hassle of peeling and chopping.

Tips for achieving the perfect sauce consistency

To ensure your butternut squash pasta sauce has that velvety, luscious texture, aim for a thick but pourable consistency. Start by blending the roasted squash with your warm vegetable broth gradually—adding more broth until you reach your desired texture. Remember to keep the sauce warm while cooking your pasta; that way, it will easily cling to the noodles for a flavorful bite in every forkful! If you're looking for more tips on how to perfect your pasta sauces, check out this guide from the Culinary Institute of America.

Serving suggestions for Butternut Squash Pasta

Garnishing with Parmesan

A generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese elevates your butternut squash pasta to new heights. Not only does it add a delightful creaminess, but it also complements the sweetness of the squash beautifully. Consider using a microplane for a light and airy finish, allowing those cheesy flavors to mingle with the roasted squash and sage.

Pairing with a Fresh Salad

To create a balanced meal, serve your pasta alongside a fresh garden salad. A simple mix of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers drizzled with a zesty lemon vinaigrette enhances the overall flavor without overpowering it. This refreshing contrast not only adds crunch but also complements the rich, savory notes of the pasta. For salad inspiration, check out this great resource on healthy salad recipes. Enjoy your meal!

Time Breakdown for Butternut Squash Pasta

Preparation Time

Getting your ingredients ready for the butternut squash pasta takes about 15-20 minutes. You'll be peeling and cubing the squash, chopping onions, and measuring out the rest of your ingredients.

Cooking Time

The cooking process takes approximately 30-35 minutes. This includes roasting the vegetables and blending your delicious sauce.

Total Time

Overall, you can expect to spend around 50-55 minutes from start to finish. In under an hour, you’ll enjoy a hearty, comforting meal that's perfect for busy weeknights!

Nutritional Facts for Butternut Squash Pasta

When you’re meal prepping or simply craving a comforting dish, Butternut Squash Pasta with Crispy Sage is a superb choice, delivering nutritious goodness without compromising on flavor. Here’s a quick look at the nutritional benefits per serving:

Calories

With an approximate 565 calories, this dish strikes a lovely balance between satisfaction and nutrition.

Protein

You’ll get about 15 grams of protein, making this pasta a hearty meal that supports your muscle health and keeps you feeling full longer.

Sodium

With 722 mg of sodium, it's important to watch the salt during meal prep. You can easily adjust the sodium to suit your dietary needs by moderating added salt or using low-sodium broth.

You can learn more about healthy eating habits and balanced meals on platforms like the Mayo Clinic or Healthline. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

FAQs about Butternut Squash Pasta

Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! To make this butternut squash pasta vegan, simply swap out the Parmesan cheese and butter for plant-based alternatives. Nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor, while olive oil works perfectly as a butter substitute. You’ll still get a rich, comforting meal without any animal products.

How do I store leftovers?

Storing leftovers is simple! Allow your butternut squash pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, consider freezing the pasta. Just note that the texture might slightly change upon reheating, but it will still be delicious!

What are the best pasta types for this recipe?

For this recipe, short pasta shapes like rigatoni, shells, or ziti work best. Their shapes allow the creamy butternut squash sauce to cling perfectly. If you're feeling adventurous, you could also try whole wheat or gluten-free options. Each type will bring its own unique flavor and texture to your butternut squash pasta dish!

For more tips on cooking pasta perfectly, check out this comprehensive guide.

Conclusion on Butternut Squash Pasta

In summary, butternut squash pasta with crispy sage is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors with nutritional benefits. Perfect for any occasion, this meal is not only easy to prepare but also comforting and satisfying. So, gather your ingredients, enjoy the cooking process, and savor this seasonal favorite!