As the leaves begin to turn and the air takes on a crisp chill, my mind drifts to bowls of comforting pasta that warm the soul. Tantalizing me with its vibrant colors, this Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta is a perfect way to embrace the beauty of the season. Rich in flavor and healthful ingredients, this dish combines creamy sauce with the sweet, nutty essence of roasted butternut squash and the aromatic touch of fresh sage. Not only is it quick to prepare, making it an ideal weeknight delight, but it also promises to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, your autumn table will never be the same. Are you ready to dive into the warmth of comforting fall flavors?

Why is This Pasta So Irresistible?

Comforting, This Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta wraps you in a warm embrace, making it a favorite for chilly evenings. Easy to prepare, with simple ingredients and steps, it saves you time while elevating your dining experience. Seasonally inspired, featuring fresh butternut squash and aromatic sage, it captures autumn’s essence on your plate. Versatile, you can easily adapt it for various diets by swapping pasta types or adding extra veggies like spinach. Lastly, crowd-pleasing, its rich, creamy sauce and delightful toppings, like toasted walnuts, make it a hit at any gathering. Looking for more cozy recipes? Try our Pizza Pasta Bake or Cajun Sausage Pasta for delightful comfort meals!

Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta Ingredients

For the Pasta
• Pasta – 12 oz (340g) of your favorite pasta; fettuccine or penne work well for a satisfying base. Gluten-free pasta is a great alternative for those avoiding gluten.

For the Sauce
• Butternut Squash – 2 cups, diced; adds a sweet and creamy component that captures the essence of autumn. Fresh squash is preferred, but frozen works in a pinch.
• Olive Oil – 3 tablespoons, divided; essential for roasting the squash and sautéing aromatics, enhancing overall flavor. You can substitute with another cooking oil if needed.
• Onion – 1 small, finely chopped; contributes sweetness and depth—shallots can be used in place of onions for a milder flavor.
• Garlic – 3 cloves, minced; offers aromatic richness; always opt for fresh garlic over pre-minced for the best taste.
• Fresh Sage – 1 teaspoon, finely chopped; elevates the dish with earthy notes; fresh is recommended, but dried sage can be a fine substitute.
• Red Pepper Flakes – ½ teaspoon (optional); add some warmth to the dish—omit if you prefer a milder taste.
• Salt and Pepper – To taste; crucial for enhancing flavors throughout the dish.
• Vegetable Broth – ½ cup; adds depth without overshadowing the sweetness of the squash; chicken broth is a suitable substitute if you’re not vegetarian.
• Heavy Cream or Coconut Milk – ½ cup; creates the creamy sauce that binds everything. Choose coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese – ½ cup (plus extra for serving); rich in flavor, this ingredient adds umami—swap it out with nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative.
• Toasted Walnuts – ¼ cup, roughly chopped; provides a delightful crunch and healthy fats; feel free to replace with pecans for a different texture.

For Garnish
• Fresh Sage Leaves – For garnish; enhances the visual appeal and adds a touch of freshness to each serving.

This Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta is sure to wrap everyone in warmth this autumn!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for roasting the butternut squash, ensuring it becomes tender and caramelized. While the oven warms up, grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Roast the Squash
In a mixing bowl, toss the diced butternut squash with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, seasoning generously with salt and pepper. Spread the squash on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is fork-tender and beautifully caramelized, stirring halfway through for even cooking.

Step 3: Cook Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your pasta of choice and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of pasta water to use later for adjusting the sauce consistency. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.

Step 4: Sauté Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, chopped sage, and optional red pepper flakes, cooking for 1-2 minutes until aromatic and fragrant.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Add the roasted butternut squash to the skillet, pouring in the vegetable broth. Using a fork or potato masher, lightly mash some of the squash to create a creamy consistency while leaving some chunks intact for texture. Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk and the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until well combined and heated through.

Step 6: Toss Pasta
Carefully add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it gently to coat in the creamy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you reach your desired sauce consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 7: Serve
Plate the Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta into bowls. For an added touch, garnish with toasted walnuts, extra grated Parmesan, and fresh sage leaves. This dish not only delights the palate but also adds vibrant colors to your autumn table, ensuring a lovely presentation.

What to Serve with Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta

Create memorable meals around this delightful dish by incorporating vibrant sides and perfectly paired drinks.

Citrusy Arugula Salad: A refreshing salad with peppery arugula, citrus segments, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.
Garlic Breadsticks: Crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, these are perfect for soaking up the creamy butternut squash sauce.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy, caramelized Brussels sprouts bring an earthy flavor, creating a delightful contrast to the sweet squash.
Herb-Infused Rice: A bed of light, fluffy rice seasoned with herbs makes a lovely base to absorb any extra sauce while adding texture to the meal.
Sautéed Spinach: The slight bitterness of sautéed spinach, tossed with olive oil and garlic, complements the sweetness of the pasta perfectly.
Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc: A chilled glass of either white wine brings refreshing acidity and cuts through the creaminess, enhancing your dining experience.
Frozen Yogurt with Honey: A light, creamy dessert finished with a drizzle of honey provides a sweet end to your comforting fall meal.

Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta Variations

Give your pasta a personal touch with these delightful changes, ensuring every bite is uniquely yours!

Gluten-Free: Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free options like brown rice or quinoa pasta for a soul-warming dish everyone can enjoy.
Dairy-Free: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk or a homemade cashew cream to keep it creamy and satisfying for dairy-sensitive palates.
Extra Veggies: Toss in sautéed mushrooms or fresh spinach for added nutrition and flavor. The earthiness of mushrooms pairs nicely with the squash!
Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken or chickpeas to transform this dish into a hearty meal, perfect for a filling weeknight dinner.
Herb Alternatives: Try using thyme or rosemary instead of sage for a different flavor profile. Each herb brings a unique twist to the creamy sauce!
Spice It Up: Kick up the heat with more red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce; avocado can also mellow out the spice!
Nutty Flavor: Feel free to swap walnuts with toasted pecans or almonds for an exciting crunch; each nut variety complements the creamy sauce differently.
Sauce Variation: For a tangy twist, swap out some vegetable broth for a splash of white wine while sautéing aromatics to add depth.

Embrace the essence of autumn with these flavorful adaptations, and while you’re at it, don’t forget to check out our comforting Southern Squash Casserole for more delightful fall flavors or our Italian Tortellini Pasta for a fresh pasta salad option!

Make Ahead Options

These Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can roast the butternut squash and prepare the creamy sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Simply roast the diced squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then combine it with sautéed onion, garlic, and sage; mix in the cream and Parmesan until well-blended. Refrigerate the sauce in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, just cook your pasta and warm the sauce over low heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water for a silky texture. This way, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort, making busy weeknights a breeze!

How to Store and Freeze Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta

Fridge: Store your leftover Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps keep the flavors intact while preventing spoilage.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pasta in an airtight container for up to 2 months. It’s best to freeze without garnishes to maintain texture.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen the sauce.

Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the roasted squash and sauce in advance, then combine with pasta on the day of serving, saving you time in the kitchen!

Expert Tips for Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta

• Even Roasting: Ensure the squash is in a single layer on the baking sheet to guarantee even cooking and caramelization.

• Pasta Water Wisdom: Reserve pasta water but add it gradually to avoid making the sauce too watery; it helps achieve the perfect creamy consistency.

• Fresh Herbs Last: Always add fresh sage near the end of cooking to preserve its aromatic qualities for the best flavor in your pasta.

• Taste Testing: Don’t forget to taste your dish before serving! Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or even a squeeze of lemon for brightness.

• Texture Variation: For a delightful crunch, be sure to toast your walnuts before adding them as a garnish; they’d elevate the buttery sauce of Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta beautifully.

Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta Recipe FAQs

What kind of butternut squash should I use?
Absolutely! For best results, I recommend using fresh, firm butternut squash without dark spots or blemishes. If fresh isn’t available, frozen squash can be used in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw it first!

How should I store leftover Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta?
Store your leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors intact and prevents spoilage. When ready to enjoy, gently reheat and add a splash of vegetable broth as needed to moisten.

Can I freeze Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta?
Yes, you can! Allow the pasta to cool completely, then freeze it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. I suggest freezing it without any garnishes, which helps maintain the best texture.

What if my sauce is too thick?
Very! If your sauce ends up too thick, simply add in a little reserved pasta water, stirring gradually until you reach your desired consistency. The starch in the water will help achieve that velvety texture we’re after.

Is this dish suitable for people with allergies?
Good question! This Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta can be made gluten-free by choosing a gluten-free pasta option. Additionally, you can opt for coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version. If you’re not sure about nuts, feel free to omit the walnuts. Always consult with your guests regarding food allergies to ensure a safe dining experience!