Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta

Warm up this autumn with a comforting bowl of Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta. If you’re looking for a dish that wraps you in a warm hug, this is it! The rich flavors of roasted butternut squash combined with the earthy aroma of sage create a delightful experience that fills your home with warmth and joy. This recipe is not just about good food; it’s about bringing people together around the table, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

What makes this dish truly special is its simplicity. With only a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can whip up a nourishing meal that everyone will love. Imagine enjoying a cozy dinner on a chilly evening, savoring every bite of creamy pasta enveloped in the comforting essence of autumn. Trust me, once you try this Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta, it might just become your new favorite fall recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: This dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for those hectic evenings when time is short but comfort is needed.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the creamy goodness and unique flavors—it’s sure to please everyone at the table!
• Healthy and nutritious: Packed with vitamins from the butternut squash and fresh herbs, this pasta dish is as wholesome as it is delicious.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge, making mealtime even easier!
• Deliciously satisfying: The combination of flavors creates a comforting bowl that leaves you feeling full and happy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delightful dish! Each component plays an important role in crafting the rich flavors of Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta.

For the Pasta:

• Fettuccine or penne pasta – Your choice will determine the texture; both work beautifully!

For the Sauce:

• 1 medium butternut squash – Roasted to bring out its natural sweetness.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – For roasting and adding richness.
• 1 medium onion, chopped – Adds depth and flavor to the sauce.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the dish with aromatic goodness.
• 1 cup vegetable broth – Creates a silky sauce base.
• 1 teaspoon fresh sage, chopped (or ½ teaspoon dried sage) – Offers an earthy note that complements the squash.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Enhances all the flavors beautifully.

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to make it your own by trying out these fun variations:

• Add some greens: Toss in fresh spinach or kale during cooking for an extra boost of nutrition and color.
• Change up the herbs: Experiment with thyme or rosemary if you’re looking for different flavor profiles.
• Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of coconut milk or non-dairy cream for an extra creamy texture.
• Add protein: Consider grilled chicken or chickpeas for added heartiness!

How to Make Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta

Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel, seed, and cube your butternut squash into bite-sized pieces. Toss them in olive oil along with salt and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness while achieving that lovely caramelization. Bake for about 25-30 minutes until they are tender and golden brown.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While your squash roasts, bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. It’s important not to overcook here; we want that perfect bite! Once done, reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining—this starchy water will help create our sauce later.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a bit more olive oil if needed and sauté your chopped onions until they turn translucent—about 5-7 minutes. This step is key because caramelizing onions enhances their natural sweetness. Next, add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Blend It All Together

Once your butternut squash is roasted, transfer it into the skillet with onions and garlic. Pour in vegetable broth and add fresh sage. Use an immersion blender (or carefully transfer everything into a regular blender) to puree until smooth. If you prefer some texture, blend slightly less—it’s all about what you like!

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add your cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the blended sauce. Stir well to coat every piece evenly. If it seems too thick, add reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time until you’ve reached your desired consistency—creamy yet cohesive!

Step 6: Serve Warm

Finally, taste for seasoning! Adjust salt or pepper as needed before serving warm. Garnish with additional sage if desired; it’s always nice to have that fresh touch on top.

And there you have it—a comforting bowl of Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta ready to warm you from the inside out! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta

Creating the perfect bowl of Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta is a delightful experience, and these tips will help you achieve a wonderfully flavorful dish every time.

• Choose ripe butternut squash: Selecting a squash that feels heavy for its size and has a matte skin ensures maximum sweetness and flavor in your dish.

• Roast for deeper flavor: Roasting the butternut squash brings out its natural sweetness and adds a caramelized depth to the dish. This step is essential for achieving that comforting autumn flavor.

• Don’t forget the pasta water: Reserve some pasta cooking water before draining. Adding a splash of this starchy water to your sauce can enhance its creaminess and help it cling better to the pasta.

• Use fresh sage: Fresh sage has a more vibrant flavor than dried, which enhances the overall taste of your dish. If possible, pick it straight from your garden or get it from a local farmer’s market!

• Experiment with cheese alternatives: If you enjoy creamy textures, try adding nutritional yeast or a plant-based cheese alternative to mimic that cheesy flavor without using dairy.

How to Serve Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta

When it comes to serving your Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta, presentation is key! Here are some ideas to make your dish look as good as it tastes.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Toasted pumpkin seeds: These add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, complementing the sweetness of the butternut squash beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The earthy flavor of Brussels sprouts pairs perfectly with the sweet notes of butternut squash. Simply roast them in olive oil with garlic until crispy.

• Simple Arugula Salad: A light salad featuring peppery arugula dressed with lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta dish.

• Herbed Quinoa: Fluffy quinoa cooked with herbs not only adds texture but also serves as a nutritious side that complements the flavors of the pasta.

• Steamed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans tossed with olive oil and lemon zest offer a bright, crunchy element that balances out the creamy pasta.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta will surely impress family and friends alike! Enjoy every bite of this cozy autumn meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week. With a few simple tips, you can store leftovers or prepare components in advance.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge.
• It’s best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal flavor and freshness.
• If you have sauce left over, keep it stored separately to maintain the pasta’s texture.

Freezing

• To freeze, portion out the pasta and sauce into freezer-safe containers.
• Make sure to leave some space at the top of the container for expansion.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months; just label your containers with the date!

Reheating

• For best results, thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce.
• You can also microwave individual servings; cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta.

Can I use another type of pasta for Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta?

Absolutely! While fettuccine or penne works wonderfully, feel free to substitute with your favorite gluten-free pasta or whole wheat options.

How long does Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this dish lasts about 3-4 days. Make sure to separate pasta from sauce if you plan on keeping leftovers!

What other herbs pair well with Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta?

In addition to sage, consider using thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist. They complement butternut squash beautifully!

Can I make Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta vegan?

Yes! Simply use a plant-based cream alternative for the sauce, and ensure any cheese used is dairy-free.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta! It’s a delightful recipe that brings warmth and comfort during chilly nights. Share it with friends or savor it alone—I truly believe it will become a favorite. Enjoy every bite and happy cooking!