Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the days grow cooler and the leaves begin to turn, I find myself drifting towards the kitchen, craving the heartwarming flavors of autumn. This Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta captures that cozy essence, blending the sweet, nutty tones of roasted butternut squash with the earthy warmth of sage. It’s a nourishing dish that’s not only vegan-friendly but also adaptable for gluten-free diets, making it perfect for all the home chefs in your life. With minimal prep time and a maximum impact on your taste buds, this recipe is a delightful way to bring the comforting spirit of fall to your table. Ready to discover how to fill your home with these delectable aromas? Let’s dive in! Why Is This Pasta Recipe So Irresistible? Comforting Flavors: This Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta perfectly captures the essence of autumn, offering a deliciously cozy meal that’s ideal for chilly evenings. Health-Conscious: Packed with nutritious ingredients, it caters to vegan and gluten-free diets, making it a guilt-free indulgence for everyone. Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is designed for busy home cooks, proving that a gourmet experience doesn’t have to take hours. Crowd-Pleasing: With its rich flavors and lovely textures, this pasta dish is sure to impress family and friends, making it a star at any gathering. Versatile Base: Feel free to adapt it by adding proteins like grilled chicken or chickpeas, or even serving it alongside a bright salad or warm bread for a complete meal. For a delightful appetizer, consider whipping up some delightful Sausage Stuffed Jalapenos to kick off your dinner! Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta Ingredients For the Pasta • 12 oz (340g) pasta of your choice – A hearty base; fettuccine or penne ensures great sauce adherence. For the Butternut Squash • 2 cups butternut squash, diced into small cubes – The star ingredient, delivering sweetness and nutrition; choose firm squash for the best results. • 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided – Key for roasting and sautéing; extra virgin is perfect for an enhanced flavor. For the Aromatics • 1 small onion, finely chopped – This aromatic base adds natural sweetness; fresh onions provide the best flavor. • 3 cloves garlic, minced – It brings depth and pungency to the dish; fresh garlic is ideal for peak flavor. • 1 teaspoon fresh sage, finely chopped (or ½ teaspoon dried sage) – Compliments the squash beautifully; fresh sage is recommended for a brighter flavor. For Seasoning • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – Introduces a hint of warmth; omit it if you prefer a milder flavor. • Salt and pepper, to taste – Essential for balancing flavors; adjust these according to your preferences. For the Sauce • ½ cup vegetable broth – Adds richness to the sauce; homemade or low-sodium is the best choice. • ½ cup heavy cream or coconut milk (for dairy-free option) – This creates a creamy texture; coconut milk makes it vegan-friendly. • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving) – Adds richness and umami; freshly grated cheese melts beautifully. For the Topping • ¼ cup toasted walnuts, roughly chopped – Offers a satisfying crunch and healthy fats; toast them for an enhanced flavor. • Fresh sage leaves for garnish – Elevates the dish visually and aromatically; whole leaves are perfect for presenting it beautifully. With these vibrant ingredients, your Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta will surely be a comforting autumn delight that warms the soul and brings joy to your table! 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 sets the perfect stage for roasting your butternut squash. As the oven warms, prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper to facilitate easy cleanup and prevent sticking. Step 2: Roast the Squash In a mixing bowl, combine the diced butternut squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, a generous sprinkle of salt, and pepper. Toss until well-coated and spread the squash on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the squash is golden brown, caramelized, and tender. Step 3: Cook the Pasta While the squash is roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your choice of pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta water to adjust your sauce’s consistency later. Step 4: Sauté Aromatics In a large skillet, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until translucent. Then stir in the minced garlic, chopped sage, and red pepper flakes, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not burned. Step 5: Combine Sauce Ingredients Gently fold the roasted butternut squash into the skillet with the sautéed aromatics. Pour in the vegetable broth and mash some of the squash to create different textures. Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk and Parmesan cheese, simmering for a few minutes to meld the flavors. If the mixture is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach your desired sauce consistency. Step 6: Toss the Pasta Once your pasta is cooked and drained, add it to the skillet with the butternut squash and sage sauce. Toss gently to ensure the pasta is evenly coated in the luscious sauce. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper if necessary, allowing the flavors to blend for about a minute over low heat. Step 7: Serve Plate your Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta and finish it off by sprinkling the toasted walnuts on top along with extra Parmesan cheese. Garnish with fresh sage leaves for a beautiful presentation. Enjoy the warmth of autumn in every bite! How to Store and Freeze Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta Fridge: Store leftover Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Gently reheat on the stove, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to maintain creaminess. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pasta in a tightly sealed container for up to 2 months. To enjoy later, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen pasta, reheat it slowly on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a bit of vegetable broth or more coconut milk to revive the creamy texture. Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the pasta at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety and quality. Make Ahead Options These Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta dishes are a fantastic choice for busy weeknights! You can roast the butternut squash and sauté the aromatics (up to 24 hours in advance), allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply store the roasted squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator. On the day you plan to serve, cook your pasta according to the package instructions, then combine it with the prepped ingredients in a skillet. If the sauce thickens, add reserved pasta water for a creamy consistency. This way, you can enjoy a hearty, comforting meal with minimal effort, savoring every delicious bite! What to Serve with Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta Bring the full warmth of autumn to your table by pairing this delightful dish with complementary sides and beverages. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: The caramelized edges and savory flavor of roasted Brussels sprouts offer a crunchy contrast to the creamy pasta, enhancing the overall meal experience. Garlic Bread: This classic pairing provides a buttery, toasted element, perfect for soaking up the luscious sauce. The aroma will entice everyone to the dinner table. Mixed Greens Salad: A bright salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch, balancing the rich flavors of the pasta while introducing a burst of freshness. Risotto: A creamy mushroom or spinach risotto can serve as a delicious side, complementing the earthy notes of sage and enhancing the autumn theme. Crisp White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio elevates the dining experience, its zesty acidity cutting through the creamy texture of the pasta. Apple Crisp: For dessert, indulge in a warm apple crisp topped with vanilla ice cream. The sweet and tart flavors echo the season while sweetening your meal’s conclusion. By thoughtfully selecting these pairings, you can create a well-rounded, heartwarming meal that celebrates the essence of fall! Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta Variations Feel free to explore and personalize this dish, elevating its flavors and textures to suit your taste buds! Vegan: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk or creamy cashew sauce for a delightful dairy-free alternative. This keeps the comforting essence intact while catering to vegan diets. Gluten-Free: Swap regular pasta for gluten-free varieties like brown rice or chickpea pasta. This way, everyone can savor the cozy goodness without missing out. Extra Protein: Toss in grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even roasted chickpeas for a protein-packed twist that makes this dish even more satisfying. Nutty Flavor Boost: Include a handful of toasted pecans or almonds along with the walnuts. They’ll add a lovely crunch and deepen the flavor profile of your pasta. Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño during sautéing for an extra layer of heat. It will awaken those taste buds and bring a new dynamic to your dish. Herb Swap: Experiment with different herbs; rosemary or thyme can work wonders alongside sage. Fresh herbs add so much vibrancy, making the dish even more fragrant and inviting! Creamy Dream: For an even richer sauce, blend in some vegan cream cheese or nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor without the dairy. You won’t believe how perfect it will taste! Roast More Veggies: Toss in some roasted Brussels sprouts or kale alongside the butternut squash. You’ll get added nutrients and textures that’ll elevate this comforting meal. No matter which variation you choose, your Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta will shine brightly at the dinner table. And if you’re looking for a scrumptious starter to accompany your meal, why not whip up some tantalizing Sausage Stuffed Jalapenos? They make for the perfect warm-up to your autumn feast! Expert Tips for Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta Uniform Cuts: Ensure butternut squash is diced into similar-sized cubes for even roasting and optimal tenderness. Watch the Garlic: When sautéing garlic, cook it just until fragrant. Burning it can lead to an unpleasant bitter taste in your Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta. Reserve Pasta Water: Always save a cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy liquid is key for adjusting your sauce consistency! Experiment with Flavors: For a zesty twist, try adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of balsamic vinegar before serving for added brightness. Extra Creaminess: If you’re looking for a richer sauce, consider blending in additional coconut milk or cream, especially if using dairy-free alternatives. Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta Recipe FAQs What type of butternut squash should I use? Absolutely! When choosing butternut squash, opt for those that feel heavy for their size, and have a smooth, even-colored skin without dark spots or blemishes. Firmness indicates freshness. Aim for squash that feels solid and has a vibrant orange hue on the inside. How should I store leftovers? Leftover Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water or vegetable broth to maintain creaminess. Can I freeze this pasta dish? Yes, you can freeze your Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta for up to 2 months! To freeze, let the pasta cool completely, then portion it into tightly sealed containers or freezer bags—remove air when sealing. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stovetop over low heat, stirring in a bit of coconut milk or broth if needed. What can I do if my pasta sauce is too thick? Very! If your Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta sauce turns out too thick, here’s a simple fix: gradually mix in reserved pasta water or vegetable broth, 1 tablespoon at a time, until you achieve the desired consistency. Stir well over low heat as you do this to allow the sauce to blend perfectly with the pasta. Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets? Yes, it is! For a gluten-free option, simply substitute the standard pasta with your favorite gluten-free variety. Many brands offer great alternatives that will pair beautifully with the savory flavors of butternut squash and sage without sacrificing texture or taste. Are there any allergy considerations with the ingredients? Very! If you or your loved ones have allergies, consider the dairy in the recipe. To make it dairy-free, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and skip the Parmesan or opt for a dairy-free cheese alternative. Also, check if your pasta brand is made in a facility that handles gluten if you’re avoiding gluten. Always read labels to ensure safety for all dietary needs. Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta Recipe FAQs Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta: Comforting Fall Flavor Awaits This Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta combines delightful fall flavors in a vegan-friendly dish that is also gluten-free. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 40 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: Italian, VeganCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta12 oz pasta of your choice fettuccine or penne recommendedFor the Butternut Squash2 cups butternut squash, diced into small cubes choose firm squash for best results3 tablespoons olive oil, divided extra virgin recommendedFor the Aromatics1 small onion, finely chopped fresh onions provide best flavor3 cloves garlic, minced fresh garlic ideal for peak flavor1 teaspoon fresh sage, finely chopped or ½ teaspoon dried sageFor Seasoning½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optionalSalt and pepper to tasteFor the Sauce½ cup vegetable broth homemade or low-sodium is best½ cup heavy cream or coconut milk for dairy-free option½ cup grated Parmesan cheese plus extra for servingFor the Topping¼ cup toasted walnuts, roughly chopped toast for enhanced flavorFresh sage leaves for garnish Equipment ovenmixing bowlBaking sheetLarge Potskillet Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Butternut Squash & Sage PastaPreheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.Combine the diced butternut squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on the baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes.Cook pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.Heat remaining olive oil in a skillet. Sauté onion for 5 minutes, then add garlic, sage, and red pepper flakes for another 1-2 minutes.Fold in the roasted squash, vegetable broth, cream or coconut milk, and Parmesan cheese, simmering for a few minutes.Add drained pasta to the skillet and toss gently with the sauce. Adjust seasoning as needed.Serve with toasted walnuts on top and garnish with fresh sage leaves. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 10gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 5gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 3000IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months. 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