Butternut Squash Pasta

Name: Butternut Squash Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 12 oz pasta (penne or fusilli); 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced; 1 cup vegetable broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk); 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh sage or parsley, for garnish

Comfort food is all about cozy flavors and warm vibes, and this Creamy and Delicious Butternut Squash pasta does just that. It’s the kind of dish that makes busy evenings feel like a treat, perfect for family dinners or when you just want to indulge on a cold night. With its rich, creamy sauce and subtle sweetness from the squash, you’ll quickly find that this recipe is a total crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s easy to prepare—I love making it on a weeknight when time is tight!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Have you ever craved a comforting meal that’s also quick and easy? This creamy butternut squash pasta delivers on all fronts—it’s flavorful, flexible, and makes fantastic leftovers. Perfect for a weeknight feast, it’s also budget-friendly, ensuring you can whip up something delicious without breaking the bank. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just treating yourself, this dish is bound to warm your heart. And yes, you can easily freeze leftovers for a rainy day!

Ingredients

Looking for the best type of butternut squash? Go for fresh squash—you can also use pre-cut for added convenience!

- 12 oz pasta (penne or fusilli work well)

- 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced

- 1 cup vegetable broth

- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for a dairy-free option)

- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 tablespoon olive oil

- Salt and pepper, to taste

- Fresh sage or parsley, for garnish

To adjust for 2 people, simply halve each ingredient or save some pasta for later! To scale for more than 4, just increase the ingredients proportionately.

Instructions

Step 1: Preparation

Have you prepped your ingredients yet? Start by cooking the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, saving a bit of pasta water for later.

Step 2: Main Cooking Process

Are you ready to build those flavors? In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat, then sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the diced butternut squash and cook for 5–7 minutes until tender.

Step 3: Combining Ingredients

Wondering how to create that creamy goodness? Pour in the vegetable broth, simmer for a few minutes, and then add the heavy cream. Use a fork or potato masher to blend the squash mixture into a smooth sauce, adjusting thickness with reserved pasta water.

Step 4: Finishing & Final Simmer

Curious about the finishing touch? Stir in the cooked pasta and Parmesan cheese, combining well. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and let everything cool for a few minutes before serving.

Why This Recipe Works for Busy Days

Don’t you love meals that can be prepped in advance? This butternut squash pasta can be made ahead for busy nights—it keeps well in the fridge and is easy to reheat. Leftovers taste just as delicious, ensuring you have a satisfying meal ready to go, even on your craziest days.

Tips & Tricks

- Use roasted butternut squash for a deeper flavor! If you’re in a hurry, avoid this common mistake of using raw squash only.

- If you want leftovers, double the recipe! Just remember that the creamy sauce may need a little extra broth to maintain its delicious texture.

- Don’t forget to save some of that pasta cooking water! It’s a simple tip that can enhance the sauce’s creaminess if it feels too thick.

- If you’re cooking for fewer people, adjust the garlic and cheese slightly—they can overpower if halved too sharply!

Variations

- Meaty Version: Want to add some protein? Cook up some Italian sausage or grilled chicken and mix it in with the pasta for a heartier meal.

- Vegetarian Option: To keep it vegetarian but still filling, throw in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach along with the butternut squash.

- Ingredient Swap: Craving something different? Swap out the butternut squash for roasted sweet potatoes for a similar creamy texture and flavor.

- Flavor or Herb Boost: Add a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of lemon juice for brightness, or toss in your favorite herbs like thyme or rosemary while simmering!

Serving Suggestions

- Garlic Bread: Pair your pasta with a slice of garlic bread for that classic cozy meal feel; it’s a perfect way to soak up all that creamy sauce.

- Side Salad: Serve with a simple arugula salad tossed with olive oil and lemon to balance the rich flavors of the pasta.

- Roasted Veggies: Complement the dish with a side of roasted Brussels sprouts or carrots, adding more autumn flavors.

- Wine Pairing: A light white wine, like Pinot Grigio, makes a lovely accompaniment and enhances the overall dining experience.

Storage Instructions

- Fridge Storage: Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just microwave to reheat!

- Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of broth or cream to restore its creamy texture and prevent it from drying out.

- Freezing: You can freeze leftovers in sealed containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

- Make-Ahead Tips: Prep the butternut squash and store it in the fridge; that way, assembling the dish on a busy evening is quick and easy.

Recipe Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Nutrition Information (Approximate)

Calories: 500–600 per serving
Protein: 15–20 grams
Key nutrients include Vitamin A and Calcium.

Values are estimates and can vary based on ingredients or portion sizes.

FAQs

- Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! Just store it in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve.

- What if the sauce is too thick? Simply add more vegetable broth or pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.

- Can I substitute the heavy cream? Absolutely! Coconut milk offers a creamy alternative for a dairy-free option.

- Will it still taste good after reheating? Yes! The flavors meld beautifully when reheated; just add a bit of broth to refresh the sauce.

- How should I store leftovers? Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days for best taste.

- What if I want to spice it up? Feel free to add chili flakes or your favorite hot sauce for a kick to the flavor!

Conclusion

In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, a warm bowl of creamy butternut squash pasta becomes a comforting meal that hits all the right notes. It’s a delightful way to customize your cooking and experiment with flavors, making it a recipe worth revisiting. So gather your loved ones, whip up this delicious dish, and savor the coziness it brings into your home!