Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta

Introduction

If you’re looking to add a cozy, comforting meal to your weekly menu, this creamy butternut squash pasta is perfect. It’s a recipe that combines the nutty sweetness of butternut squash with a luscious, velvety texture from creamy ingredients for a mouthwatering result. This dish is ideal for warming up during cold evenings or simply when you crave a hearty, satisfying pasta dish. The recipe not only delivers on taste but is simple to prepare and suitable for cooks of all levels. By following these easy steps, you can whip up a creamy pasta meal that’s sure to impress.

Detailed Ingredients with Measures

To create this delicious pasta dish, you’ll need just a handful of everyday ingredients. Here’s everything you need:

– Butternut squash (peeled and cubed)
– Olive oil
– Onion (finely chopped)
– Garlic (finely minced)
– Vegetable stock
– Cream (double or heavy cream)
– Parmesan cheese (grated)
– Pasta of choice
– Salt
– Black pepper
– Fresh sage leaves (optional, for garnish)

Prep Time

Prep time for this creamy butternut squash pasta is minimal, requiring only enough effort to chop your produce and prepare your ingredients. In just a few short minutes, you’ll be ready to start cooking.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The cook time for this recipe is manageable even on busy evenings. After sautéing, boiling, and blending the squash mixture, the entire meal comes together quickly. The total time to prep and cook this comforting dish allows you to have it on the table in under an hour. This creamy butternut squash pasta recipe yields enough servings to satisfy a small family or provide leftovers for easy meals the next day. Every bite is packed with flavor, making it a foolproof choice for your recipe collection.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash

– Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
– Peel and cube the butternut squash into small, even pieces.
– Drizzle the squash with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
– Spread the cubes on the prepared baking tray in a single layer.
– Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is soft and caramelized at the edges.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

– Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
– Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
– Reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

– Heat a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
– Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant but not browned.
– Once the roasted butternut squash is ready, add it to the skillet with the garlic.
– Use a wooden spoon or fork to mash the squash slightly, creating a chunky texture.
– Pour in a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the mixture and make it saucy.
– Stir in the double cream or your preferred cream alternative, mixing well.
– Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth and depth.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

– Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the squash sauce.
– Toss everything together thoroughly, ensuring the pasta is well-coated in the creamy sauce.
– If needed, adjust the consistency of the sauce with more reserved pasta cooking water.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

– Transfer the pasta to serving bowls or plates.
– Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley.
– Serve immediately and enjoy your creamy butternut squash pasta.

Notes

Prepping the Butternut Squash

– To make the peeling and cutting easier, you can microwave the squash for a few minutes to soften the skin.
– Use a sharp knife and a sturdy cutting board for safety.

Cooking Tips

– Stir the garlic carefully while sautéing to prevent it from burning, as burned garlic can taste bitter.
– Adjust the cream amount to your preference for either a lighter or richer sauce.

Pasta Water

– Don’t forget to reserve the pasta water—it helps create a glossy sauce and adjust the thickness.

Substitutions

– You can replace double cream with a plant-based alternative to make this dish vegan.
– For extra protein, consider adding cooked chicken or crispy pancetta.

Storage and Leftovers

– Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce.

Cook techniques

Roasting the butternut squash

To achieve a creamy texture and enhance the natural sweetness, the butternut squash is roasted in the oven. Dice the squash into small cubes, toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and bake until softened and slightly caramelized.

Blending for a creamy consistency

Once roasted, blend the butternut squash with vegetable stock or pasta water to create a smooth and velvety sauce. Use a food processor or blender for the best results.

Cooking the pasta to al dente

Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until it reaches al dente perfection. This ensures it retains some firmness and pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.

Combining the sauce and pasta

Once the sauce is blended, combine it with the cooked pasta in a pan over low heat. Toss until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.

Serving with garnishes

Serve the finished dish with grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley or sage, to enhance the flavor.

FAQ

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, simply replace the Parmesan cheese with a dairy-free alternative or nutritional yeast, and ensure the pasta is egg-free.

How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Can I use pre-cubed butternut squash?

Yes, using pre-cubed squash can save time. Just ensure the pieces are uniform for even roasting.

What type of pasta works best?

This dish works well with any pasta, but short pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni are particularly good for holding the sauce.

Is this sauce freezer-friendly?

Yes, the butternut squash sauce can be frozen separately in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before combining with freshly cooked pasta.

Conclusion

The creamy butternut squash pasta is a comforting and satisfying dish that combines wholesome ingredients with incredible flavor. It’s a perfect balance of sweetness from the squash and creaminess from the sauce, making it ideal for cozy dinners or treating yourself to a hearty meal. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or serving a family gathering, this dish is sure to impress and leave everyone wanting more.

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