This butternut squash pasta is a warm hug in a bowl! It’s creamy, delicious, and made with roasted squash, garlic, and a sprinkle of parmesan. Just perfect for cozy nights!
Once you taste that buttery sweetness, you’ll be hooked! I love topping it with extra cheese because, let’s be real, there’s no such thing as too much cheese! 😄
Making it is super easy! Just roast the squash, blend it up with some spices, and toss it with your favorite pasta. It’s a big win for both taste and comfort!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butternut Squash: This is the star of the dish! Its natural sweetness adds great flavor. If you can’t find butternut squash, try using pumpkin or sweet potatoes instead—they give a similar taste and texture!
Olive Oil: I love using extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, light olive oil or even avocado oil would work well, too.
Pasta: I used spaghetti, but you can easily swap it for your favorite pasta shape like fettuccine, penne, or even gluten-free options if needed. It’s all about what you enjoy!
Parmesan Cheese: This cheese gives a nice salty touch. If you’re vegetarian, be sure to use a vegetarian-friendly cheese for the best flavor! Nutritional yeast can be a good substitute for a cheesy flavor too.
Heavy Cream: For a creamier sauce, heavy cream is fabulous, but you can use half-and-half or even a non-dairy milk like coconut cream for a lighter version.
How Can I Perfectly Roast Butternut Squash?
Roasting butternut squash brings out its sweetness and enhances the flavor. Here’s how to do it right!
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) before you start.
- Peel and cube the squash evenly so they cook at the same rate.
- Don’t skip the seasoning! Toss the squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper to ensure every piece is flavored nicely.
- Spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet for even roasting. Give them room to breathe!
- Roast for 25-30 minutes until they are fork-tender and slightly caramelized on the edges. This caramelization adds so much flavor!
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly roasted butternut squash every time! Enjoy making your pasta dish truly delicious.
The Best Butternut Squash Pasta Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 pounds), peeled, seeded, and diced
- 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 12 oz spaghetti or your preferred pasta
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk (optional for creamier sauce)
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and about 30-35 minutes total to cook and assemble. It’s a quick meal that feels fancy and delicious, perfect for any weeknight or special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Roast the Butternut Squash:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Take your diced butternut squash and toss it with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, a sprinkle of salt, and freshly ground black pepper on a baking sheet. Make sure the squash pieces are well coated, then spread them out in a single layer. Roast in the oven for about 25-30 minutes until they’re tender and lightly caramelized, flipping them halfway through for even cooking.
2. Cook the Pasta:
While the squash is roasting, fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add your spaghetti or preferred pasta, and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Don’t forget to save about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the rest.
3. Make the Sauce:
In a skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Once ready, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Add the roasted butternut squash along with about half of the grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir everything together gently.
4. Blend the Squash Sauce:
Next, transfer the mixture from the skillet into a blender, or you can use an immersion blender right in the skillet. Add the reserved pasta water and the heavy cream (if you’re using it). Blend the mixture until it’s smooth and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and sprinkle in the nutmeg if you’d like a little extra flavor.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Pour the creamy butternut squash sauce back into the skillet or a large mixing bowl. Add the cooked pasta and toss it all together until the pasta is well coated in the sauce. Top it off with the chopped fresh parsley for some color and freshness!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Divide the pasta into bowls and sprinkle with more Parmesan cheese and freshly ground black pepper. You can also add extra parsley for garnish, if you like. Serve it warm and enjoy the cozy flavors of your butternut squash pasta!
This dish is creamy, flavorful, and perfect for the autumn season. Enjoy your comforting butternut squash pasta!
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Can I Use Frozen Butternut Squash for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen butternut squash, there’s no need to thaw it first—just add a few extra minutes to the roasting time to ensure it’s heated through and tender.
What Pasta Can I Use Instead of Spaghetti?
You can use any pasta you prefer or have on hand! Penne, fettuccine, or even gluten-free options like quinoa or chickpea pasta work great in this dish for a delightful twist!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or cream if needed to loosen the sauce.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative, and use coconut milk instead of cream for a delicious plant-based version of this butternut squash pasta.
