Description of this recipe Butternut Squash Pasta is a creamy, comforting, and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of roasted butternut squash with the richness of Parmesan cheese and heavy cream. This recipe is a delightful twist on traditional pasta dishes, offering a vegetarian-friendly option that’s both satisfying and nutritious. It’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal. The vibrant color and delicious aroma make it an irresistible dish that will impress your family and friends.
Why you will love this recipe
You will absolutely love this Butternut Squash Pasta because it’s incredibly easy to make, requires minimal effort, and delivers maximum flavor. The roasting of the butternut squash brings out its natural sweetness, which is beautifully balanced by the savory Parmesan cheese and a hint of spice from the red pepper flakes. The creamy sauce coats the pasta perfectly, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes in every bite. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra vegetables into your diet, making it a win-win for both your taste buds and your health. The recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite pasta shape or add-ins like spinach or mushrooms.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 medium butternut squash, seeded and cut into ½-inch cubes (about 2 cups)
- 1 large onion, cubed
- 6 garlic cloves
- 3 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 tsp salt, divided
- 1/2 tsp pepper, divided
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 10 oz pasta, cooked al dente
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the butternut squash, onion, and garlic roast evenly, developing their natural sweetness and creating a depth of flavor that forms the foundation of the dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
Add the cubed butternut squash, cubed onion, and whole garlic cloves to a large baking sheet. For easy cleanup, line the baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents the vegetables from sticking and makes the roasting process hassle-free.
Step 3: Season and Roast
Drizzle the vegetables with 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Season with half of the red pepper flakes (½ tsp), half of the salt (½ tsp), and half of the pepper (¼ tsp). Toss everything together to ensure the vegetables are evenly coated with the oil and spices. This step is crucial for infusing the vegetables with flavor.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Continue Roasting
Roast the vegetables for 15 minutes. Then, add the halved cherry tomatoes to the baking sheet and roast for another 5 minutes. The tomatoes will burst and release their juices, adding a touch of acidity and sweetness to the roasted vegetable mixture.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
While the vegetables are roasting, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it reaches al dente. Al dente means “to the tooth” in Italian, indicating that the pasta should be firm and slightly chewy. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 6: Blend the Roasted Vegetables
Once the vegetables are roasted, transfer them to a blender along with 1 cup of vegetable broth. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Be careful when blending hot liquids; start on a low speed and gradually increase to prevent splattering.
Step 7: Create the Sauce
Pour the blended vegetable mixture into a large skillet over medium-low heat. Season with the remaining salt (½ tsp) and pepper (¼ tsp). Stir in ½ cup of heavy whipping cream and 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 8: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is heated through and well coated with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the Butternut Squash Pasta immediately. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, or fresh herbs like parsley or sage for added flavor and visual appeal.
COOKING Rating:
- 5/5 Stars. This recipe is highly rated for its ease of preparation, delicious flavor, and comforting nature.
Serving Suggestions:
This Butternut Squash Pasta is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with:
- A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette
- Garlic bread or crusty bread for soaking up the creamy sauce
- Roasted vegetables like broccoli or Brussels sprouts
- Grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein
Tips:
- Roasting the vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- Use a high-quality Parmesan cheese for the best flavor. Freshly grated Parmesan is always preferable to pre-grated.
- Don’t overcook the pasta; al dente is the key to a perfect texture.
- If you want a smoother sauce, you can strain it through a fine-mesh sieve after blending.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, kale, or mushrooms to the dish for added nutrients and flavor.
- For a vegan version, use plant-based cream and vegan Parmesan cheese.
- To make this dish ahead of time, prepare the sauce and cook the pasta separately. Combine them just before serving.
Prep Time:
20 minutes
Cook Time:
30 minutes
Total Time:
50 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Per Serving, approximate)
Calories:
Approximately 450-550 calories
Protein:
Approximately 15-20 grams
Sodium:
Approximately 500-700 mg (depending on the salt content of the broth and cheese)
Conclusion
Butternut Squash Pasta is a delightful and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture, sweet and savory flavors, and vibrant color, it’s sure to become a family favorite. The recipe is easy to follow, customizable, and packed with wholesome ingredients, making it a guilt-free indulgence. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is a guaranteed success. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this delicious Butternut Squash Pasta, and savor every bite!
5 Questions and Answers about this Recipe:
- Can I make this recipe vegan?
Answer: Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be vegan. Substitute the heavy whipping cream with plant-based cream, such as cashew cream or coconut cream. Use vegan Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Ensure your vegetable broth is also vegan-friendly.
- Can I use a different type of squash?
Answer: Absolutely! While butternut squash provides a unique sweetness and creamy texture, you can experiment with other types of squash like acorn squash, kabocha squash, or even pumpkin. Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the type of squash you use.
- How can I add more protein to this dish?
Answer: There are several ways to boost the protein content of this Butternut Squash Pasta. You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to the dish. Another option is to stir in some cooked lentils or chickpeas for a vegetarian source of protein.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Answer: Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cook the pasta separately just before serving, and then combine it with the sauce. This will prevent the pasta from becoming soggy.
- What kind of pasta works best with this recipe?
Answer: While you can use any type of pasta you prefer, certain shapes work better than others with creamy sauces like this one. Penne, rigatoni, fusilli, and farfalle are all excellent choices because their ridges and curves help to capture the sauce. You can also use long pasta like spaghetti or linguine, but be sure to toss it well to ensure it’s evenly coated with the sauce.
