Craving healthy fall comfort food? Look no further! This Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta is the perfect dish to warm you up on a chilly autumn evening. It’s packed with nutrients, incredibly delicious, and surprisingly easy to make.
What is Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta?
Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the sweetness of roasted butternut squash with the richness of a creamy sauce. Often incorporating pasta (duh!), it offers a satisfying and wholesome meal. This recipe is a healthier take on mac and cheese, using the squash to create a creamy, dairy-free (or low-dairy, depending on your preference) sauce that’s light yet decadent. It’s a brilliant way to sneak in vegetables, especially for picky eaters! The sweetness of the squash is balanced by savory herbs and spices, creating a complex and comforting flavor profile. This pasta is a great option for vegetarian and vegan diets (with minor adjustments).
Ready to embrace autumn flavors? Dive into this Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta recipe and prepare for a dish that will become a new family favorite!
Key Ingredients for Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta:
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious, healthy fall comfort food:
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed: This is the star of the show, providing sweetness, creaminess, and essential nutrients.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For roasting the squash and sautéing vegetables.
- 1 teaspoon dried sage: Adds a warm, earthy flavor that complements the butternut squash.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary: Contributes a piney, aromatic note.
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg: A touch of nutmeg enhances the squash’s sweetness and adds depth.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: To season the squash and bring out its natural flavors.
- 1 small onion, chopped: Provides a savory base for the sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a pungent kick to the sauce.
- 4 cups vegetable broth (low-sodium): Creates the creamy sauce base while keeping it light.
- 1/2 cup nutritional yeast (optional, for vegan cheese flavor): Gives a cheesy, umami flavor to the sauce.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, if not vegan): Adds a salty, cheesy richness.
- 1 pound pasta (penne, rigatoni, or farfalle work well): The foundation of our comforting meal. Whole wheat or gluten-free options can be used.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish): Adds freshness and a pop of color.
- Optional toppings: Toasted pumpkin seeds, red pepper flakes, extra Parmesan cheese.
How to Make Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta:
This Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta is easier than you might think! Roasting the butternut squash brings out its natural sweetness, and the creamy sauce comes together in a snap. This dish offers a combination of flavors and textures that will leave you feeling comforted and satisfied. The total preparation time is around 45 minutes to an hour. The butternut squash must cook long enough to be very soft.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Roast the Butternut Squash: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, dried sage, dried rosemary, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Spread the squash in a single layer on the baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is tender and slightly caramelized, flipping halfway through.
Sauté Aromatics: While the squash is roasting, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Blend the Sauce: Once the butternut squash is roasted, transfer it to a blender or food processor. Add the sautéed onion and garlic, vegetable broth, nutritional yeast (if using), and Parmesan cheese (if using). Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or nutmeg to your liking.
Cook the Pasta: While the sauce is blending, cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the butternut squash sauce. Toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency. Be careful not to add too much water at once.
Serve and Garnish: Serve the Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta immediately. Garnish with fresh parsley, toasted pumpkin seeds, red pepper flakes, and extra Parmesan cheese (if desired).
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta:
This isn’t just pasta; it’s a hug in a bowl, a delightful symphony of flavors that makes it the perfect healthy fall comfort food. The primary draw of this dish is the creamy, sweet, and savory flavor profile. The roasted butternut squash creates a naturally sweet base that’s perfectly balanced by the savory herbs and garlic. Also, making this pasta at home is incredibly cost-effective compared to ordering similar dishes at a restaurant. Butternut squash is often affordable during the fall season, and the other ingredients are pantry staples, keeping your grocery bills down. Finally, the toppings and ingredients like toasted pumpkin seeds (for crunch), red pepper flakes (for a kick), and the option of Parmesan cheese (for extra richness) elevate the dish and allow for personalization.
If you enjoy this recipe, you might also like our Creamy Tomato Pasta with Roasted Vegetables. While both dishes are great, the butternut squash recipe offers a uniquely sweet and warming experience that makes it perfect for fall. Try making both in autumn!
Ready to experience the cozy flavors of fall? Make this Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta at home and savor every bite!
What to Serve Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta With:
To complete your fall feast, consider serving this Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with:
- A simple side salad with balsamic vinaigrette: The acidity of the vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the pasta.
- Roasted Brussels sprouts with maple syrup: The sweetness of the maple syrup complements the butternut squash.
- Garlic bread or crusty bread: Perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
- Sparkling apple cider: A refreshing and seasonal drink.
Top Tips for Perfecting Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta:
Here are some tips to help you make the best Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta:
- Roast the squash until it’s very tender: This ensures a smooth and creamy sauce. If the squash is still firm, it will be difficult to blend properly.
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta holds its shape better and has a more satisfying bite.
- Adjust the sauce thickness with pasta water: This is a simple yet effective trick to create a perfectly creamy sauce.
- Use high-quality vegetable broth: The flavor of the broth will impact the overall taste of the sauce so get the best you can.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness: A touch of acidity can balance the sweetness of the squash.
- For vegan substitute: you can use vegan parmesan chesse for a dairy free option.
5 Facts about Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta:
- It is made with the fall squash butternut squash giving it it’s famous name.
- It can be made vegan.
- It originated in Italy.
- It is considered a comfort food.
- It is an easy way to use vegetables.
Storing and Reheating Tips:
- Storing: Leftover Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the pasta in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
- Freezing: While the pasta can be frozen, the texture of the sauce may change slightly upon thawing. If you wish to freeze it, allow the pasta to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating as directed above.
Final Thoughts:
This Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It is a celebration of fall flavors and a reminder of the simple joys of cooking. It is the perfect comfort food!
try also : Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe and find more in pinterest
Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta FAQs:
- Can I use canned butternut squash puree? While fresh is always best, canned butternut squash puree can be used in a pinch. Just make sure to use plain puree, not pie filling. You may need to adjust the amount of vegetable broth to achieve the desired consistency.
- Can I add protein to this dish? Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage would all be delicious additions. Tofu or tempeh are great vegan options.
- Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta.
- Can I use different herbs? Feel free to experiment with different herbs! Thyme, oregano, and marjoram would also be delicious.
- Is this recipe good for meal prepping? Yes, this pasta is great for meal prepping. It reheats well and is just as delicious the next day!