Name: Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta: Cozy Fall Comfort Food
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 12 oz Fettuccine or penne (Works best for sauce adherence); 2 cups Butternut Squash (Diced; substitute with pumpkin if desired); 3 tbsp Olive Oil (For roasting and sautéing; can be replaced with other oils); Salt & Pepper (Essential for enhancing flavor); 1 small Onion (Finely chopped; shallots are a great milder substitute); 3 cloves Garlic (Minced; adjust based on your love for garlic); 1 tsp Fresh Sage (Finely chopped; use less dried sage as it’s more potent); ½ tsp Red Pepper Flakes (Optional; omit if you prefer a milder flavor); ½ cup Vegetable Broth (Creates depth in the sauce; chicken broth is a good substitute); ½ cup Heavy Cream (Provides creaminess; coconut milk is a great dairy-free swap); ½ cup Parmesan Cheese (Plus extra for serving; nutritional yeast works well for dairy-free); ¼ cup Toasted Walnuts (Roughly chopped; feel free to swap with pumpkin seeds for nut-free); Fresh Sage Leaves (For garnish)

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As the leaves turn gold and the air carries that delightful crispness, I can’t help but crave cozy meals that warm both the soul and the stomach. Enter my Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta—a seasonal celebration that captures autumn’s essence in every bite. With its creamy sauce blending the sweet, nutty flavor of perfectly roasted butternut squash and the enchanting aroma of sage, this dish not only comforts but also nourishes. Perfect for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings, it’s a fantastic vegetarian option that’s easily adaptable for gluten-free and dairy-free diets too. Ready to trade takeout for a heartwarming homemade meal? Join me as we dive into a dish that’s sure to become a seasonal favorite!

Why Is This Pasta So Irresistible?

Comforting Flavors: Prepare for a delightful blend of sweet roasted butternut squash and aromatic sage that envelops your senses with every bite.

Easy Adaptation: This recipe is easily tailored to suit dietary needs, whether you’re craving a vegan, gluten-free, or dairy-free dish—no one will miss the heavy ingredients!

Time-Saving: With straightforward steps that come together in just about 30 minutes, it makes for a perfect weeknight meal.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether you’re hosting a gathering or having a cozy dinner for two, this pasta brings out the best flavors of fall that everyone will love.

Feeling inspired? You can easily pair this dish with a light mixed green salad for a balanced meal or explore other mouthwatering options like Garlic Parmesan Pasta for a different twist!

Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta Ingredients

• Here’s everything you need to create this comforting dish!

For the Pasta

Pasta (12 oz / 340g) – Fettuccine or penne work best for sauce adherence.

For the Roasted Squash

Butternut Squash (2 cups, diced) – Adds sweetness and nutrition; substitute with pumpkin if desired.
Olive Oil (3 tbsp) – For roasting and sautéing, contributing richness; can be replaced with other oils if needed.
Salt & Pepper – Essential for enhancing flavor; Himalayan salt brings an extra layer of taste if you have it.

For the Sauce

Onion (1 small, finely chopped) – Provides depth and sweetness when sautéed; shallots are a great milder substitute.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Elevates the dish’s flavor profile; adjust based on your love for garlic.
Fresh Sage (1 tsp, finely chopped or ½ tsp dried) – This aromatic herb elevates the dish; use less dried sage as it’s more potent.
Red Pepper Flakes (½ tsp, optional) – Adds a touch of heat; omit if you prefer a milder flavor.
Vegetable Broth (½ cup) – Creates depth in the sauce; chicken broth is a good non-vegetarian substitute.
Heavy Cream (½ cup) – Provides creaminess; coconut milk is a great dairy-free swap.
Parmesan Cheese (½ cup, plus extra for serving) – Adds umami richness; nutritional yeast works well for a dairy-free option.

For the Finishing Touches

Toasted Walnuts (¼ cup, roughly chopped) – Adds a delightful crunch and healthy fats; feel free to swap with pumpkin seeds for nut-free.
Fresh Sage Leaves for Garnish – They not only enhance presentation but also provide an extra burst of flavor.

Get ready to savor every comforting bite of this Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta

Step 1: Preheat Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is essential for roasting the butternut squash perfectly, which is a key component of our Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta. Once heated, it allows the squash to caramelize beautifully, enhancing its natural sweetness.

Step 2: Roast Squash
Dice 2 cups of butternut squash into bite-sized pieces and toss it with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, along with a generous sprinkle of salt and pepper. Spread the squash evenly on a baking sheet and roast in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Look for a tender, caramelized finish to ensure the best flavor for your dish.

Step 3: Cook Pasta
While the squash is roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces of your chosen pasta, stirring occasionally. Cook until al dente, typically around 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta, which will help create a creamy sauce later.

Step 4: Sauté Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 finely chopped small onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it turns translucent. Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of finely chopped fresh sage, and an optional ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the aromatics to fill your kitchen with a delightful fragrance.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Once the butternut squash is done roasting, add it to the skillet with the sautéed onions and aromatics. Pour in ½ cup of vegetable broth, lightly mashing some squash for creaminess. Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, blending everything together. Adjust the sauce thickness using the reserved pasta water, adding as needed.

Step 6: Toss Pasta
Add the drained al dente pasta to the skillet with the sauce mixture, tossing gently to coat each piece evenly. This step is crucial for integrating the sweet flavors of the butternut squash & sage pasta throughout. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as desired, ensuring a harmonious blend of flavors.

Step 7: Serve
Plate your luscious Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta, garnishing each serving with ¼ cup of chopped toasted walnuts for crunch, additional grated Parmesan, and a few fresh sage leaves. This not only enhances the presentation but also highlights the delicious herbaceous notes of the dish. Enjoy this comforting and hearty meal!

What to Serve with Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta

As you indulge in this cozy, creamy dish, consider these delightful pairings to elevate your dining experience.

Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing blend of greens dressed with lemon vinaigrette balances the pasta’s richness.
Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread complements the savory notes and provides a satisfying crunch.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slight bitterness and crispy edges add depth and texture, harmonizing beautifully with sweet squash.
Sweeter Side Dish: Consider a side of candied carrots or sweet potatoes. Their natural sweetness enhances the meal’s comforting flavors.
Chardonnay: This light and fruity wine pairs wonderfully with the pasta, cutting through the richness while enhancing the dish’s flavors.
Apple Crisp: Finish the meal with a warm apple crisp; its sweet, spiced flavors echo the seasonal ingredients of the pasta.
Pumpkin Soup: For a comforting starter, pumpkin soup echoes the squash flavor, creating a cohesive autumnal dining experience.

Make Ahead Options

These Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta are perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep enthusiasts! You can roast the butternut squash up to 24 hours in advance, allowing it to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can prepare the sauce mixture (excluding the heavy cream and cheese) and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce, stirring in the heavy cream and Parmesan, and toss it with freshly cooked pasta. This approach not only saves time but also ensures that the flavors meld beautifully, making for a meal that’s just as delicious as when freshly made!

Expert Tips for Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta

Reserve Pasta Water: Always keep some pasta water after cooking; it’s essential for achieving the perfect creamy consistency in your sauce.
Timing Matters: Cook the pasta just as the squash comes out of the oven to ensure everything is perfectly hot and ready to mix together.
Use Fresh Sage: For the best flavor in your Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta, opt for fresh sage. If using dried, reduce the amount, as it’s more concentrated.
Mash Some Squash: Lightly mashing part of the roasted squash in the sauce offers delightful creaminess without needing excessive cream.
Taste as You Go: Always taste and adjust seasoning as needed. This ensures that all the wonderful flavors shine through and suit your palate perfectly.

How to Store and Freeze Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure it cools completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: This Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta freezes well for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container, leaving space for expansion.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or pasta water to revive the creamy sauce.

Serving: For optimal taste, enjoy the pasta within a few days for the best flavor and texture!

Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta Variations

Feel free to make this dish your own with exciting twists and substitutions that suit your taste!

Vegan Option: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a plant-based delight. The nutty flavor from these alternatives complements the squash beautifully.
Gluten-Free Pasta: Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions and still enjoy the rich flavors of this dish. Quinoa or chickpea pasta adds a nice protein boost too!
Nut-Free Choice: Omit the walnuts or substitute with crunchy pumpkin seeds for a nut-free version. Both options provide a delightful crunch while keeping the dish wholesome.
Heat It Up: Add more red pepper flakes if you love a spicy kick. Alternatively, toss in some sautéed diced jalapeños for a fresh twist.
Protein Boost: Incorporate cooked chickpeas or lentils for an extra protein punch. This offers a heartier texture that works well with the creamy sauce.
Herb Swap: Try fresh thyme or rosemary instead of sage for a unique flavor profile. These herbs bring their own aromatic characteristics to the dish.
Cheese Alternatives: Substitute Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy, perfect for vegans and those avoiding lactose.
Seasonal Veggies: Mix in sautéed kale or spinach for an added nutrient boost and color. These greens not only enhance the flavor but also make the dish even more visually appealing.

Don’t forget to check out other delicious pasta options like Garlic Parmesan Pasta or explore the incredible flavors in our Street Corn Pasta for further culinary adventures!

Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta Recipe FAQs

What kind of butternut squash should I use?
For the best flavor and texture, choose a firm butternut squash without any dark spots or soft areas. Look for one that feels heavy for its size. If butternut squash isn’t available, pumpkin is a great substitute; just ensure it’s also fresh and firm.

How should I store leftovers of the Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to let the pasta cool completely before sealing it to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently on the stovetop to bring back its creamy sauce.

Can I freeze Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the pasta to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Leave some space for expansion. This dish will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
If your sauce turns out thicker than expected, don’t fret! Start by adding a bit of the reserved pasta water, mixing well until you achieve your desired consistency. If it’s still too thick after this, you can add a splash of vegetable broth or even more cream, stirring to blend smoothly.

Are there any dietary concerns I should be aware of?
This Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta is vegetarian, but can easily be made gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. For dairy-free dieting, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese. Always check for nut allergies, especially if you’re using walnuts; pumpkin seeds are a lovely nut-free alternative.

Can I substitute the pasta to fit my diet?
Certainly! This recipe works wonderfully with a variety of pasta types. If you prefer a low-carb option, zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash can be delicious alternatives. When using gluten-free pasta, make sure to follow packet instructions for cooking times for the best results.