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Butternut Squash Pasta Recipe

This Butternut Squash Pasta is a cozy fall dinner that turns sweet roasted squash into a silky, creamy sauce for pasta. It is simple enough for a weeknight but feels special enough for a relaxed weekend meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, pasta
Cuisine: American
Calories: 495

Ingredients
  

For the Roasted Squash
  • 4 cups butternut squash peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil divided
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
For the Pasta
  • 12 ounces pasta
  • 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 tablespoon fresh sage finely chopped
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Equipment

  • Large baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Large pot
  • Large Skillet
  • Blender or food processor
  • Colander
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the cubed butternut squash and garlic on the pan, then drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and dried sage. Toss well to coat every piece.
    Preheat the oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet
  2. Roast the squash for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until completely tender. Meanwhile, cook the pasta in salted water until al dente and reserve 1/2 cup of the cooking water. Blend the roasted squash and garlic with the remaining olive oil until silky smooth.
    Roast the squash for 25 to 30 minutes
  3. Transfer the squash puree to a large skillet over medium-low heat. Stir in a splash of reserved pasta water at a time until the sauce reaches a smooth, spoonable consistency. Add the butter and Parmesan, stirring until melted.
    Transfer the squash puree to a large skillet
  4. Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss until evenly coated. Stir in the fresh sage and red pepper flakes, then season with salt and black pepper. Serve warm with additional Parmesan if desired.
    Add the drained pasta to the skillet

Notes

  • Choose a firm butternut squash with deep orange flesh for the sweetest roasted flavor.
  •  Slightly warm roasted squash blends more easily into a smooth puree.
  • Keep the skillet over medium-low heat after adding Parmesan to prevent the cheese from becoming grainy.
  • finished sauce should cling to the pasta but still move easily when tossed.
  • Taste the pasta at the end and add a little salt, pepper, or pasta water if the sauce needs more balance or moisture.