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 warmth and flavor, this recipe is just what you need! It celebrates the deliciousness of roasted butternut squash, which not only tastes amazing but also packs a nutritional punch. Combined with the fragrant notes of sage, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

What makes this pasta truly special is its creamy sauce made with simple ingredients that elevate the flavors. Each bite is a delightful reminder of fall’s bounty, making it an ideal choice for cozy dinners with loved ones.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for a weeknight meal without sacrificing flavor.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy texture and sweet hints from the butternut squash.
Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare it in advance, so it’s ready when you need a satisfying dinner.
Seasonal Ingredients: Using fresh, seasonal produce means you’ll enjoy the best flavors autumn has to offer.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is a breeze! You’ll find that these are simple, wholesome items you can easily grab at your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Pasta

Fettuccine or penne pasta: About 12 ounces, any type will do!

For the Sauce

Butternut squash: 1 medium-sized, peeled and cubed.
Olive oil: Helps roast the squash beautifully.
Onion: 1 small onion, chopped finely for sweetness.
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced for aromatic flavor.
Vegetable broth: About 1 cup to create that creamy base.
Sage leaves: Fresh or dried; they add a distinctive herbal note.
Salt and pepper: To taste.

Variations

This recipe is quite flexible! You can easily adjust it to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are some fun ideas:

Add Some Greens: Toss in some fresh spinach or kale for added nutrients and color.
Cheese Lovers Unite: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan or vegan cheese on top before serving for an extra layer of flavor.
Go Nutty: Add toasted pine nuts or walnuts for crunch and richness.
Spice It Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes can give this dish a warm kick!

How to Make Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta

Step 1: Roast the Squash

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread your cubed butternut squash on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roasting brings out its natural sweetness and enhances its flavors. Bake for about 25-30 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While your squash is roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine or penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Remember to reserve about half a cup of pasta water before draining—it’ll help create that silky sauce later!

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onions in olive oil until they become translucent—about 5 minutes. This step is important as it releases their natural sweetness and builds the foundation of your sauce. Then stir in minced garlic and fresh sage leaves for about another minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the roasted butternut squash to your onion mixture along with vegetable broth. Use a fork or potato masher to mash some of the squash while leaving other pieces intact for texture. Mix in the cooked pasta and reserved pasta water gradually until you reach your desired creaminess. Taste it! Adjust salt and pepper if needed.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

Plate up your Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta while it’s warm! Top with additional sage leaves or nuts if using. Gather around the table with family or friends—there’s nothing quite like sharing good food with good company!

Pro Tips for Making Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta

Making this Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta is a delightful experience, and a few tips can elevate your dish to the next level!

Choose the right squash: Opt for a firm butternut squash with a smooth skin. This ensures that the flesh is sweet and flavorful, making your sauce deliciously creamy.
Don’t rush the roasting: Roasting the squash at a high temperature allows it to caramelize, enhancing its natural sweetness. Patience here pays off with richer flavors.
Use fresh sage: Fresh herbs are key to bringing out the best flavor. Sage complements butternut squash beautifully and adds an aromatic touch to your dish.
Cook pasta al dente: Cooking your pasta just right helps it hold its shape and texture when mixed with the sauce. This creates a better mouthfeel in each bite.
Reserve some pasta water: Before draining your cooked pasta, save a cup of starchy water. Adding this to your sauce can help achieve the perfect creamy consistency without needing extra cream.

How to Serve Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta

Presenting your Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta can transform a simple meal into an impressive feast! Here are some ideas to enhance your dining experience.

Garnishes

Chopped walnuts: A sprinkle of toasted walnuts adds a delightful crunch and nuttiness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.
Shaved Parmesan alternative: If you prefer a non-dairy option, try using nutritional yeast or a vegan Parmesan for that cheesy flavor without animal products.
Fresh sage leaves: A few whole or roughly chopped fresh sage leaves not only look beautiful but also intensify the herb’s aroma on each plate.

Side Dishes

Garlic Roasted Broccoli: The slight bitterness of roasted broccoli pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of butternut squash, adding both color and nutrition to your meal.
Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette provides a crisp contrast to the rich pasta dish—perfect for balancing flavors.
Herbed Quinoa: Fluffy quinoa seasoned with herbs like parsley or dill offers an earthy note that complements the main dish while adding extra protein.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These little green gems bring a savory depth that harmonizes well with the pasta’s sweetness, making them an excellent side choice.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy a cozy night in with this comforting dish!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it make a hearty and satisfying dish, but it also stores well, allowing you to enjoy the flavors all week long. Here’s how to keep your leftovers fresh and tasty.

Storing Leftovers

Allow the pasta to cool completely before storing.
Transfer the leftovers to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Portion the pasta into individual servings for easy thawing.
Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, removing as much air as possible.
Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of vegetable broth or water to prevent sticking.
You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently until warmed through.

FAQs

If you have questions about making this delicious pasta dish, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries.

Can I make Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is already free from animal-derived ingredients. Just ensure that any substitutes you use (like plant-based cream) align with your dietary preferences.

What type of pasta works best for Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta?

Fettuccine or penne are great choices, but feel free to use your favorite pasta shape! The sauce clings beautifully to various types.

How can I make this dish spicier?

If you’re looking for a little heat, try adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking the sauce!

Can I use other herbs instead of sage?

Yes! Thyme or rosemary can be delightful substitutes if you’re looking for a different flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings warmth and joy to your kitchen as it has mine! The combination of butternut squash and sage creates a uniquely comforting dish that’s perfect for any weeknight dinner. Enjoy making this Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta and share it with your loved ones—there’s nothing quite like a home-cooked meal to bring everyone together. Happy cooking!