Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta Recipe

If you’re craving something cozy yet bursting with flavor, this Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta Recipe is an absolute must-try! It’s a delightful blend of roasted sweet squash, fragrant sage, and creamy goodness tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. I promise, it’s comfort food that feels a little fancy — and will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for straightforward ingredients that you likely have on hand or can easily pick up. Each brings its own magic, from the tender roasted squash adding sweetness and texture, to fresh sage for an herbaceous zing, and a splash of cream to tie everything together.

• 12 oz pasta: Fettuccine or penne work wonderfully—choose your favorite shape that holds onto sauce well.
• 2 cups diced butternut squash: Roasting the squash concentrates its sweetness, which is key for this dish.
• 3 tablespoons olive oil: Divided between roasting and sautéing, it adds richness without overpowering flavors.
• 1 small onion, finely chopped: Provides a subtle sweetness and savory depth.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: A classic aromatic that brightens the entire recipe.
• 1 teaspoon fresh sage (or ½ teaspoon dried): This herb is the star that ties the flavors together beautifully.
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Adds just a hint of heat, but feel free to leave it out if you prefer mild.
• Salt and pepper: To taste, because seasoning makes all the difference.
• ½ cup vegetable broth: Helps create a silky sauce base when combined with cream and squash.
• ½ cup heavy cream or coconut milk: Use coconut milk for a dairy-free twist without sacrificing creaminess.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty boost; plus extra for serving.
• ¼ cup toasted walnuts, chopped: Sprinkled on top for crunch and nutty flavor contrast.
• Fresh sage leaves for garnish: To make your dish look as vibrant as it tastes.

Variations

One of the best parts about the Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta Recipe is how effortlessly it can be tailored to your preferences or what’s in your pantry. Don’t hesitate to swap out ingredients or add your own twist to make it truly your own!

• Swap dairy: Use coconut milk or cashew cream in place of heavy cream to keep it vegan and still creamy.
• Add protein: Toss in cooked chicken, crispy pancetta, or sautéed mushrooms for an extra hearty meal.
• Spice it up: Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of smoked paprika for a smoky kick.
• Nut alternative: Use pecans or pine nuts if walnuts aren’t your favorite or if you want a different texture.

How to Make Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash to Perfection

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread those vibrant diced butternut squash cubes on a baking sheet, drizzle with a tablespoon of olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Give everything a good toss so each piece is coated, then roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and beautifully caramelized. This roasting step is the secret to unlocking their rich, sweet flavor that makes this dish shine.

Step 2: Cook and Set Aside Your Pasta

While the squash is roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your chosen pasta until al dente—meaning it still has a little bite to it. Don’t forget to save a cup of that starchy pasta water before draining, because it will come in handy to smooth out the sauce later. Set the pasta aside and get ready for the next flavorful steps.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatic Base

In a large skillet, heat the remaining two tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add your finely chopped onion and cook it slowly for about five minutes until soft and translucent, releasing its natural sweetness. Then add the minced garlic, fresh or dried sage, and red pepper flakes if you like that little extra warmth. Stir everything for another 1-2 minutes until the whole kitchen smells irresistible.

Step 4: Build the Creamy Sauce

Add your roasted butternut squash back into the skillet along with half a cup of vegetable broth. Gently mash some of the squash with a fork or masher to create a silken, creamy base without completely losing those lovely chunks. Next, pour in the heavy cream (or coconut milk), and stir in the grated Parmesan until everything melds together into a luscious sauce. If it feels too thick, slowly add reserved pasta water until the texture is just right.

Step 5: Toss and Perfect Your Pasta

Now it’s time for the magic moment—add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss thoroughly so every strand is coated in that creamy, dreamy sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. This step brings all the flavors to a perfect harmony, making every bite utterly satisfying.

Step 6: Serve with Crunch and Freshness

Scoop the pasta into bowls and top each serving with toasted walnuts for a satisfying crunch, sprinkle extra grated Parmesan for a cheesy finish, and garnish with fresh sage leaves that pop with vibrant color and aroma. This finishing touch makes your dish look stunning and taste even better.

How to Serve Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

The garnishes for this pasta elevate it from simply good to truly memorable. Toasted walnuts lend a crunchy texture contrast, while extra Parmesan adds a salty, nutty finish. Don’t skip fresh sage sprigs—they bring a fresh herbal aroma that really sets the tone before you even take a bite.

Side Dishes

This pasta pairs beautifully with light, green sides like a crisp arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or steamed asparagus. For heartier options, crusty bread or garlic bread work wonderfully to soak up any leftover sauce and round out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the pasta in shallow bowls to showcase its colorful ingredients. For a festive touch, drizzle a bit of high-quality olive oil or a balsamic glaze on top. You can also sprinkle some extra toasted nuts around the plate edge to look like edible confetti that invites your guests to dig in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making the pasta even more comforting the next day.

Freezing

Because of the cream and pasta texture, freezing isn’t ideal for this recipe. If you must freeze, do so before adding dairy and reheat with fresh cream or coconut milk stirred in to restore creaminess.

Reheating

Gently reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving too long to keep the pasta from becoming mushy.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta Recipe is a celebration of simple yet bold fall flavors that wrap you in a warm, satisfying hug with each bite. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is easy to prepare but feels special enough to impress. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved staple in your kitchen!

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