Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this *savory butternut squash and sage pasta*! It’s one of those dishes that makes your kitchen smell like a warm hug on a chilly day. I remember the first time I made it; I was experimenting with the seasonal produce at my local farmer’s market, and I stumbled upon the most beautiful butternut squash. I couldn’t resist! The sweetness of the squash perfectly balances the earthy, aromatic flavor of fresh sage, creating a symphony of taste in every bite. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it a go-to weeknight dinner for me. Trust me, this pasta dish is not just comforting but also an absolute delight that will impress your family and friends!

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delightful savory butternut squash and sage pasta. Trust me, it’s worth gathering these fresh ingredients!

8 oz pasta: You can use any shape you love—spaghetti, penne, or even farfalle work great!
2 cups butternut squash, diced: Make sure to peel and chop it into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
2 tbsp olive oil: This will add a beautiful richness to the dish.
1/2 cup onion, chopped: Sweet onions work wonderfully, adding a lovely depth of flavor.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is a must for that aromatic kick!
1/4 cup fresh sage, chopped: The star of the show! Adjust the amount based on how much you love sage.
1/2 cup vegetable broth: This keeps everything moist and adds extra flavor.
Salt and pepper to taste: Always taste as you go to find your perfect seasoning!
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving: A sprinkle on top takes it to another level!

How to Prepare Savory Butternut Squash and Sage Pasta

Now, let’s dive into how to whip up this scrumptious savory butternut squash and sage pasta! It’s easier than you might think, and I promise you’ll be enjoying a bowl of deliciousness in no time.

First, cook the pasta according to the package instructions. I usually go for al dente, which takes about 8-10 minutes. Once it’s ready, drain it and set it aside.
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You’ll want it nice and hot, but not smoking!
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until the onion turns translucent and the garlic is fragrant. Just imagine that aroma wafting through your kitchen!
Next, toss in the diced butternut squash. Cook it for around 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s tender and slightly caramelized. This is where the magic starts happening!
Now, stir in the chopped fresh sage and vegetable broth. Let it all simmer together for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. You’re gonna love how your kitchen smells!
Finally, add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to your liking, and give it one last good stir.
Serve it hot, topped with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, and get ready for the compliments!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to prepare: This savory butternut squash and sage pasta comes together in just about 40 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights!
Easy to customize: Feel free to switch up the pasta shape or add in your favorite veggies for a personal touch.
Full of flavor: The combination of sweet butternut squash and aromatic sage creates a deliciously unique taste experience.
Healthy and satisfying: Packed with nutrients and fiber, this dish is as wholesome as it is comforting.
Vegetarian delight: A fantastic option for meatless meals that everyone will love!

Tips for Success

Here are some of my favorite tips to make your savory butternut squash and sage pasta shine! First, don’t rush the sautéing—let the onion and garlic cook until they’re just right, so they really enhance the flavor. If you want a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of cream or a dollop of mascarpone when you mix in the pasta. And if you’re a sage lover like me, feel free to add more fresh sage—just be careful not to overpower the dish! Lastly, always taste as you go; adjusting the seasoning makes all the difference!

Variations

One of the best things about this savory butternut squash and sage pasta is how versatile it is! You can easily switch up the pasta shape—think fusilli for some fun twists or even whole wheat for a heartier option. If you’re in the mood for a protein boost, try adding sautéed chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a satisfying meal. Want to sneak in more veggies? Toss in some spinach, kale, or even roasted red peppers for a pop of color and nutrition. You can also experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary to give it a new twist. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your savory butternut squash and sage pasta is super easy! Just let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This way, it’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, just scoop out what you want and reheat it in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of vegetable broth or a drizzle of olive oil to keep it moist. Stir occasionally until it’s warmed through. You can also microwave it in a covered dish for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway. Enjoy the flavors all over again!

Nutritional Information

Before you dig into this delicious savory butternut squash and sage pasta, it’s good to know that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. Typically, one serving contains about 350 calories, 10g of fat, 10g of protein, and 54g of carbohydrates. It also packs 4g of fiber, making it a wholesome choice for your meals. Remember, these numbers might change slightly depending on how you customize your dish, so feel free to adjust as needed!

FAQ Section

Can I use frozen butternut squash for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen butternut squash is a great time-saver and works just as well. Just make sure to thaw it before cooking to ensure even tenderness.

What type of pasta is best for savory butternut squash and sage pasta?
You can use any kind of pasta you love! I often stick to shapes like fettuccine or penne, but feel free to get adventurous with your favorites. Just remember to cook according to the package instructions!

Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this savory butternut squash and sage pasta vegan by simply omitting the Parmesan cheese. You can also add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy!

How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again!

Can I add protein to this dish?
Definitely! This pasta is delicious with added protein like grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian option. It’s all about making it your own!

Savory Butternut Squash and Sage Pasta: 7 Flavorful Secrets

Print Recipe

A delicious savory pasta dish featuring butternut squash and sage.

Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

8 oz pasta
2 cups butternut squash, diced
2 tbsp olive oil
1/2 cup onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh sage, chopped
1/2 cup vegetable broth
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions

Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add onion and garlic, sauté until translucent.
Add butternut squash and cook until tender.
Stir in sage and vegetable broth; simmer for 5 minutes.
Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve with grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Notes

Use any pasta shape you prefer.
Adjust the amount of sage based on your taste.
This dish can be made vegan by omitting cheese.

Author: Juanita A. Smith
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 350
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 300mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 54g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 10g
Cholesterol: 5mg

Keywords: savory butternut squash and sage pasta