Name: Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta: Comforting Autumn Bliss
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 12 oz Pasta (Use fettuccine for a silkier sauce or penne for a satisfying bite.); 2 cups Butternut Squash (Diced; feel free to swap with acorn squash if you prefer.); 3 tablespoons Olive Oil (Divided; any light cooking oil can be used in its place.); 1 small Onion (Finely chopped; shallots offer a milder taste if you prefer.); 3 cloves Garlic (Minced; roasted garlic adds sweetness.); 1 teaspoon Fresh Sage (Finely chopped or use ½ teaspoon dried.); ½ teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (Optional; omit for a more mellow flavor.); Salt and Pepper (Essential for seasoning as you go.); ½ cup Vegetable Broth (Deepens the sauce; chicken broth is a suitable option for non-vegetarians.); ½ cup Heavy Cream (Or coconut milk; almond milk works as a lighter dairy substitute.); ½ cup Parmesan Cheese (Grated; nutritional yeast is great for a vegan twist.); ¼ cup Toasted Walnuts (Roughly chopped; substitute with pecans or leave out for nut-free cooking.); Fresh Sage Leaves (Perfect for presentation; parsley can serve as a fresh alternative.)

As the chill of autumn settles in, I find myself craving dishes that warm both the body and soul. Enter the Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta—an enchanting blend of roasted butternut squash and fragrant sage that transforms any meal into a comforting celebration of the season. Not only is this vegetarian delight nutrient-rich and packed with flavor, but it’s also quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Imagine twirling your favorite pasta—fettuccine or penne—around golden chunks of squash, all enveloped in a creamy sauce that feels like a warm hug. Are you ready to create a dish that captures the magic of fall on a plate? Let’s dive into this cozy culinary experience!

Why is Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta a Must-Try?

Comforting Flavors: This dish highlights the sweetness of roasted butternut squash paired with the earthy notes of fragrant sage, creating a perfect harmony that warms your soul.

Time-Saving Delight: It’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.

Nutrient-Rich Goodness: Packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, this vegetarian recipe not only satisfies your taste buds but also supports your health.

Versatile Options: Whether you prefer fettuccine or penne, this dish can be easily adapted. Plus, try pairing it with a light mixed green salad or even a refreshing glass of Sauvignon Blanc for the ultimate dining experience.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for any autumn gathering, this comforting dish is sure to impress family and friends alike! If you enjoy seasonal flavors, check out our delicious Street Corn Pasta for another fall favorite!

Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta Ingredients

For the Pasta
• Pasta (12 oz) – Use fettuccine for a silkier sauce or penne for a satisfying bite.

For the Sauce
• Butternut Squash (2 cups, diced) – Sweet and nutritious; feel free to swap with acorn squash if you prefer.
• Olive Oil (3 tablespoons, divided) – Essential for roasting; any light cooking oil can be used in its place.
• Onion (1 small, finely chopped) – Builds a flavorful base; shallots offer a milder taste if you prefer.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Infuses the dish with aromatic flavor; roasted garlic adds sweetness.
• Fresh Sage (1 teaspoon, finely chopped or ½ teaspoon dried) – Brings a warm earthiness; rosemary can be a delightful alternative.
• Red Pepper Flakes (½ teaspoon, optional) – Add a hint of heat; omit for a more mellow flavor.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning as you go.
• Vegetable Broth (½ cup) – Deepens the sauce; chicken broth is a suitable option for non-vegetarians.
• Heavy Cream (½ cup) or Coconut Milk – Creaminess is key; almond milk works as a lighter dairy substitute.
• Parmesan Cheese (½ cup, grated) – Richness and umami that complements the dish; nutritional yeast is great for a vegan twist.
• Toasted Walnuts (¼ cup, roughly chopped) – Adds a crunchy texture; substitute with pecans or leave out for nut-free cooking.

For Garnish
• Fresh Sage Leaves – Perfect for presentation; parsley can serve as a fresh alternative.

This Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta makes for a cozy and nutritious meal that will surely delight your taste buds!

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

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This is where you’ll roast the butternut squash, unlocking its natural sweetness, so let’s get things ready for a flavorful start!

Step 2: Roast the Squash
In a mixing bowl, toss 2 cups of diced butternut squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and season generously with salt and pepper. Spread the squash evenly on the prepared baking sheet and place it in the preheated oven. Roast for about 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is tender and caramelized, with a golden-brown hue.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta
While the squash roasts, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces of your chosen pasta, either fettuccine or penne, and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Before draining the pasta, reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta water—it will help bring your Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta together later.

Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 finely chopped onion, sautéing until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, stir in 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of chopped fresh sage, and optional red pepper flakes. Continue cooking for another 3-5 minutes, allowing the scents to meld and create an aromatic base.

Step 5: Create the Sauce
Once the squash has finished roasting, add it to the skillet with the sautéed aromatics. Using a fork or potato masher, partially mash the squash for a chunky texture. Stir in ½ cup of vegetable broth, ½ cup of heavy cream (or coconut milk for a dairy-free option), and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, combining everything until smooth. Adjust the sauce’s consistency with reserved pasta water as needed.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained pasta to the skillet with your creamy butternut squash sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the rich, savory mixture. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper as desired, ensuring every bite of the Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta is perfectly seasoned and comforting.

Step 7: Serve with a Touch of Elegance
Once everything is combined and heated through, plate your delicious Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta. Garnish with a sprinkle of toasted walnuts for crunch and extra richness, along with fresh sage leaves for a vibrant touch. This delightful dish is now ready to be served and enjoyed!

Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta Variations

Feel free to personalize this recipe and elevate your culinary experience with these delightful twists!

Sweet Potato Swap: Substitute butternut squash with sweet potatoes for a different sweetness and a vibrant color. This variation adds an earthy flavor that still maintains a cozy feel.
Gluten-Free Pasta: Use gluten-free pasta or legume-based options like chickpea pasta for those avoiding gluten. This ensures everyone at the table can enjoy this comforting dish.
Creamy Cashew Alternative: Replace heavy cream with cashew cream for a rich, dairy-free option. Simply blend soaked cashews with water for a smooth, creamy texture.
Pumpkin Perfection: Consider pumpkin puree instead of butternut squash for a seasonal twist. It brings a lovely orange hue and pairs beautifully with sage.
Herbal Boost: Enhance the flavor profile by mixing in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary alongside the sage. This adds layers of complexity to each bite.
Nut-Free Option: Omit toasted walnuts if you’re looking for a nut-free dish, or substitute with seeds like sunflower seeds for a similar crunch without the allergens.
Fiery Kick: For those who love heat, add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to bring some spice to your plate. This will invigorate your butternut squash & sage pasta even further!
Cheese Variations: Instead of Parmesan, try crumbled goat cheese or feta for a tangy flair. These cheeses melt beautifully and add a creamy touch to your sauce.

For more delightful pasta experiences, consider trying our Butter Shrimp Pasta or explore the fresh flavors of Street Corn Pasta. Happy cooking!

Storage Tips for Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta

Fridge: Store your Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the pasta fresh and allows the flavors to meld.

Freezer: If you want to enjoy it later, freeze the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: When ready to serve, gently reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to maintain creaminess.

Airtight Guidance: Make sure to seal the container tightly to prevent moisture loss, which helps retain the dish’s delightful flavors and textures.

What to Serve with Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta

As the rich, comforting aroma of Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta wafts through your kitchen, consider rounding out your meal with delightful complementary dishes.

Light Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with vinaigrette balances the creamy pasta, adding a crisp texture and vibrant flavors. Pair it with some cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness.
Garlic Bread: The warmth of freshly baked garlic bread adds a delicious crunch that’s perfect for scooping up the creamy sauce, making every bite irresistibly satisfying.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts bring a lovely bitterness that contrasts beautifully with the sweet squash. Toss them with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for added depth.
Crispy Kale Chips: Lightly seasoned and oven-baked, these crunchy bites provide a healthful, savory companion that adds a delightful crunch alongside the smooth pasta dish.
Sauvignon Blanc: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc enhances the fresh sage and squash flavors while providing a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.
Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake: For dessert, indulge in a slice of creamy pumpkin spice cheesecake, which echoes the flavors of fall and rounds out the meal with a sweet finish.

Each pairing enhances the cozy experience of savoring Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta, ensuring a memorable dining occasion!

Make Ahead Options

These Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can roast the butternut squash and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days, keeping its sweetness intact. Additionally, you can sauté the aromatics—onion, garlic, and sage—and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, simply reheat the squash and aromatics, cook the pasta, and combine everything with the cream and cheese for a quick finish. Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water to ensure the sauce remains creamy and delightful. This way, you’ll have a comforting dinner ready in no time, just as delicious as if made fresh!

Expert Tips for Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta

• Pasta Water is Key: Always reserve a cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy liquid helps bind the sauce and pasta perfectly.

• Roast for Flavor: Don’t rush the roasting process; allow the butternut squash to caramelize fully for maximum sweetness and depth in flavor.

• Taste as You Go: Always taste the sauce before serving. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or even a touch of vinegar for a bright finishing touch.

• Chunky or Smooth: For varying textures, partially mash the roasted squash instead of blending it completely. This keeps delicious chunks in your Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta.

• Creative Variations: Feel free to swap out heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version or use nutritional yeast for a vegan twist.

• Additional Garnishes: Sprinkling fresh sage and nuts on top not only enhances presentation but adds delightful crunch and flavor contrast to your dish.

Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe butternut squash?
Absolutely! When choosing butternut squash, look for one that is firm and heavy for its size, with a smooth, tan skin. Avoid any that have dark spots or blemishes. The ideal squash should feel dense and have a matte finish rather than a shiny one, which indicates it was harvested too soon.

What is the best way to store leftover Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta?
Very good question! After cooking, let your Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Can I freeze my Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the cooked pasta to cool completely, then place it in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze briefly. Once frozen, transfer the pasta to a freezer-safe container or bag. It’s essential to seal it tightly to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight and reheat gently on the stove.

What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
No worries! If your Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta sauce ends up too thick, simply add a bit of the reserved pasta water to thin it out. Start with just a couple of tablespoons, mixing until you achieve your desired consistency. This water is starchy and helps to bind the sauce beautifully to the pasta.

Is this recipe suitable for people with nut allergies?
Very much! If you’re concerned about nut allergies, you can easily avoid using walnuts in the Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta. Instead, you might consider substituting with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for added crunch without the nuts. Alternatively, feel free to omit the nuts altogether!

Can I make this dish vegan-friendly?
Absolutely! To create a vegan version of the Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream. For cheese, use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan to introduce that umami flavor. Following these substitutions will ensure you still enjoy rich flavors while keeping it plant-based.