Name: Cozy Up with Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta for Autumn Bliss
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 8 oz Fettuccine or penne (gluten-free options available); 1 medium Butternut Squash (diced into bite-sized pieces); 2 tbsp Olive Oil (extra virgin recommended); 1 medium Onion (fresh yellow or white); 2 cloves Garlic (minced); 1 tbsp Fresh Sage (or dried sage in smaller amounts); 1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes (optional); 1 cup Vegetable Broth; 1/2 cup Heavy Cream or Coconut Milk (for dairy-free option); 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (or vegan cheese for dairy-free option); 1/4 cup Toasted Walnuts (or pine nuts/pecans); a few leaves Fresh Sage (for garnish)

Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta for Cozy Autumn Nights

As the days grow shorter and a chill settles in the air, there's nothing quite like retreating to the kitchen to create a dish that envelops you in warmth. This Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta is a celebration of fall flavors-its creamy texture beautifully balances the sweet earthiness of roasted squash with the aromatic notes of fresh sage. I first made this cozy dish during one of those crisp autumn evenings when the leaves crunched beneath my boots, and it quickly became a go-to for my family. Not only is this recipe simple and nourishing, but it's also incredibly versatile, allowing you to easily swap in gluten-free pasta or coconut milk for a vegan delight. Let's dive into this culinary embrace and discover how to transform seasonal ingredients into a comforting meal perfect for those cozy autumn nights.

Why You'll Love This Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta

Comforting Warmth: This dish wraps you in a hug of cozy flavors, making it an ideal meal for chilly autumn evenings.

Nutrient-Packed: With butternut squash loaded with vitamins A and C, it not only satisfies but nourishes.

Versatile Choices: Easily customize this recipe for dietary preferences-try gluten-free pasta or coconut milk for a delightful vegan version.

Quick Prep: Whipping up this comforting pasta is a breeze, taking under 30 minutes from start to finish.

Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The harmonious blend of sweet squash, earthy sage, and creamy goodness is sure to impress family and friends, making it perfect for gatherings or a simple weeknight dinner.

Not sure where to start with seasonal recipes? Check out our guide on seasonal cooking for more inspiration!

Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta Ingredients

Get ready to whip up a cozy autumn favorite with these ingredients!

For the Pasta

Pasta - Fettuccine or penne recommended; gluten-free options are available for those needing dietary adjustments.

For the Sauce

Butternut Squash - Fresh, firm squash adds sweetness, creaminess, and vibrant color; consider saving the seeds for roasting as a crunchy topping.
Olive Oil - Extra virgin is best for flavor; essential for roasting the squash and sautéing aromatics.
Onion - Fresh yellow or white onions provide sweetness and depth when sautéed.
Garlic - Fresh garlic is recommended for the best flavor enhancement; it infuses the dish with a pungent aroma.
Sage - Fresh sage offers the richest flavor; use dried sage in smaller amounts if fresh isn't available.
Red Pepper Flakes (optional) - Add a hint of heat; adjust based on your preference for spice.
Vegetable Broth - This ingredient enhances moisture and depth without overpowering other flavors.
Heavy Cream or Coconut Milk - Creates a rich, creamy sauce; coconut milk serves as a dairy-free alternative.
Parmesan Cheese - Adds creaminess and umami; consider substituting with a vegan cheese for a dairy-free option.

For Toppings

Toasted Walnuts - Provides a delightful crunch and nutty flavor; pine nuts or pecans are good alternatives.
Fresh Sage Leaves - Use as a garnish for added color and flavor.

Enjoy creating this Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta for Cozy Autumn Nights, and feel free to mix and match these ingredients to make it your own!

How to Make Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for roasting the squash until it's perfectly tender and caramelized.
Roast the Squash: Dice the butternut squash into bite-sized pieces, drizzle with olive oil, season well, and spread evenly on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and tender.
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your preferred pasta and cook until al dente, roughly 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and fresh sage, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Combine Ingredients: Gently fold in the roasted butternut squash to the skillet. Pour in vegetable broth and mash some of the squash for a creamy texture. Stir in heavy cream or coconut milk and Parmesan, adjusting consistency with reserved pasta water as needed.
Toss the Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and gently toss to coat evenly with the creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve: Plate the pasta and generously top with toasted walnuts, additional Parmesan, and fresh sage leaves for a beautiful presentation.

Optional: Drizzle with a splash of lemon juice for a zesty finish!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta

Fridge: Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep it fresh, ensure it cools before sealing.
Freezer: Freeze completely cooled pasta in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. For easier portioning, consider using freezer trays.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to restore creaminess to the sauce.
Make-Ahead: This Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta can be made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Just store it properly in the fridge until you're ready to serve!

Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta Variations

Customize your dish to create new layers of flavor and excitement for your cozy autumn nights!

Vegan Delight: Swap heavy cream with coconut milk for a creamy, dairy-free option that retains all the richness.
This simple adjustment allows the squash's sweetness to shine through without the extra calories from dairy.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to cater to dietary restrictions while still enjoying comforting flavors.
This ensures everyone at the table can dive into a bowl of this autumn favorite without worry!
Herb Swap: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary to change up the flavor profile.
These herbs add a unique twist and can make the dish feel fresh and novel, even on repeat nights.
Nutty Crunch: Substitute walnuts with toasted pecans or pine nuts for a different nutty flavor and texture.
Each nut brings its own personality to the dish, enhancing the overall experience in delightful ways.
Heat It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or increase the red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
This twist adds warmth that complements the sweetness of the squash, keeping every bite exciting.
Creamy Cheese Swap: Use cashew cream or a vegan cheese alternative to create a creamy texture for dairy-free diets.
This keeps the dish indulgent while accommodating vegan preferences-sure to impress non-dairy eaters!
Roasted Garlic Bliss: Roast the garlic instead of sautéing for a sweeter, mellower flavor that enhances the dish's richness.
This subtle change can transform the dish into a symphony of warm flavors, perfect for chilly evenings.
Grains Galore: Toss in some quinoa or farro for added texture and protein while boosting the nutritional value.
These grains will turn your pasta dish into a hearty bowl, making it feel even more fulfilling.

What to Serve with Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta?

This enchanting dish invites warmth and comfort, making it easy to create a delightful meal experience.

Mixed Green Salad: A light, refreshing salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the creamy pasta perfectly, adding a crisp contrast.
Garlic Bread: The buttery richness of garlic bread enhances the hearty flavors of the pasta, creating a satisfying combination that's hard to resist.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: A smoky, caramelized side adds an earthy element that matches the sweetness of butternut squash and sage, enriching the overall meal.
Crispy Sage Chips: Garnish your plate with these savory delights for an extra layer of flavor that echoes the herby undertones of the pasta.
Chardonnay: A glass of this crisp wine beautifully accompanies the creamy pasta, enhancing the meal with its light fruit notes and elegance.
Pumpkin Pie: Finish with a slice of this seasonal favorite for a cozy end to your meal, capturing the essence of autumn in every bite.

As you gather to share this feast, let the vibrant flavors create lasting memories.

Make Ahead Options

These Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta bowls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can roast the butternut squash and sauté the aromatics up to 3 days in advance; simply refrigerate them in airtight containers to maintain their quality. Additionally, cook the pasta and toss it with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat the squash and aromatics in a skillet, add the reserved pasta water along with the cream or coconut milk, and toss in the cooked pasta. This way, you'll enjoy the comforting flavors of your favorite Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta with minimal effort on busy weeknights!

Expert Tips for Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta

Perfect Pasta: Use starchy pasta water for a silky sauce consistency. This simple trick ensures the sauce clings perfectly without being too thin.
Rustic Texture: For a delightful variation, mash the roasted squash roughly instead of blending it for a chunkier sauce that enhances the autumn vibe.
Flavor Adjustment: Don't forget to taste and adjust seasoning! A splash of lemon juice can brighten the dish, balancing the creamy sauce perfectly.
Toasting Walnuts: Always toast walnuts in a dry skillet before topping-this enhances their flavor and adds a beautiful crunch to your Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta.
Batch Cooking: This dish keeps well; make a double batch to enjoy as leftovers or freeze for future cozy nights. Just reheat gently!
Herb Substitutions: Feel free to experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary to tailor the flavors to your liking while still enjoying that wonderful autumn essence.

Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta Recipe FAQs

What type of butternut squash should I use?
Absolutely! Opt for fresh, firm butternut squash with a smooth skin. Avoid any with dark spots or soft areas, as these can indicate overripeness. If you're feeling adventurous, consider saving the seeds to roast for a crunchy topping!

How should I store leftover Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta?
Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow the pasta to cool to room temperature before sealing to keep it fresh and delicious!

Can I freeze Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta?
Yes, you can! Just ensure the pasta is completely cooled, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It will be good for up to 2 months in the freezer. For easier portioning, consider freezing in trays.

What if my sauce is too thick?
Very! If you find your sauce is thicker than desired, simply add a splash of the reserved pasta water while reheating or tossing to achieve that desired creamy consistency. Remember, the starchy water helps in binding the sauce, making it silkier!

Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies?
Absolutely! This dish is vegetarian-friendly. However, keep in mind that garlic can be harmful to pets. If you're serving some to furry friends, it's best to set aside a portion without garlic and season it according to their dietary needs.

How can I adjust the recipe for a vegan version?
It's quite simple! Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for creaminess and skip the Parmesan cheese, or use a vegan alternative. These adjustments will keep the dish just as delightful while being completely plant-based for your cozy autumn nights!