Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage

Savor the delightful flavors of Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage – where sweet, caramelized squash and silky pasta come together in a rich brown butter sauce, aromatic sage, and crunchy walnuts. This dish is perfect for various occasions, from cozy weeknight dinners to elegant gatherings. The unique combination of flavors makes it a standout option that will impress your family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish fits perfectly into busy schedules without sacrificing flavor.
• Rich Flavor Profile: The caramelized butternut squash combined with sage and brown butter creates a luxurious taste experience.
• Vegetarian-Friendly: A delicious option for vegetarians, this pasta dish is hearty and satisfying without any meat.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize it by adding different vegetables or nuts based on your preferences.
• Elegant Presentation: The vibrant colors and textures make this pasta visually appealing for any dining occasion.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that make the process smoother.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Slotted spoon
• Cutting board
• Knife

Why These Tools Matter

• Large pot: Ensures ample space for boiling pasta, allowing it to cook evenly without sticking.
• Skillet: Ideal for sautéing the butternut squash and making the brown butter sauce to enhance flavors.
• Slotted spoon: Helps easily transfer cooked ingredients without excess liquid, keeping your dish light and flavorful.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 12 ounces Dry Pasta (Bucatini, Spaghetti or Linguine)
• ½ Cup Unsalted Butter (DIVIDED (1 stick))
• 1 large Butternut Squash
• 1/2 tsp EACH: Ground Ginger, Nutmeg & Cumin
• one pinch Cayenne
• 2 cloves Garlic (smashed and peeled)
• 8-12 large Fresh Sage Leaves
• 1 Cup Whole-Milk Ricotta (Optional: Whip ricotta until smooth in a food processor)
• ½ Cup Toasted Walnuts (coarsely chopped)
• as needed Kosher Salt & Pepper (to taste)
• 1/2 Cup Parmesan (freshly grated, plus more for garnish)

How to Make Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage

Step 1: Cook Pasta in Salty Boiling Water

Bring a large pot of water to a boil and then generously salt the water. Add the dry pasta and cook according to the package instructions until the noodles are just al dente. Drain the cooked pasta while reserving 1 cup of the pasta cooking water. Set aside and let pasta cool for 3 minutes.

Step 2: Sauté the Butternut Squash

In a large skillet, add 2 tablespoons of the butter over medium-high heat. Once melted, add the butternut squash. Season with ginger, nutmeg, cumin, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Cook while stirring occasionally at first; then more frequently as it browns until caramelized and tender (about 12–15 minutes). Use a slotted spoon to transfer the squash to a clean plate and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sage Brown Butter Sauce

In the same skillet used for cooking the squash, add the remaining 6 tablespoons of butter along with smashed garlic cloves. Place over medium to medium-high heat. Let the butter melt while swirling the pan until it turns light brown (about 2 minutes). Add sage leaves and fry until crispy (about 30 seconds to 1 minute). Transfer crispy sage leaves to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Discard garlic cloves from the pan but keep the butter.

Step 4: Add Pasta Water and Cheese

Reduce heat to medium-low. Slowly pour in 1/2 cup of reserved pasta cooking liquid while whisking until combined into a sauce. Remove from stovetop and add cooked pasta; season generously with salt and pepper. Toss until well coated in brown butter sage sauce. Add parmesan cheese and let it melt on noodles before tossing again. Gently incorporate butternut squash cubes into pasta. If needed, add more cooking liquid for desired sauce consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Step 5: Serve Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage

Divide pasta among serving plates. Top with crispy sage leaves, crushed toasted walnuts, and extra parmesan cheese. Optionally dollop ricotta over top if using. Enjoy immediately!

How to Serve Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage

Serving Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage is an opportunity to elevate your dining experience. This dish pairs beautifully with various accompaniments, enhancing its rich flavors and textures.

Garnishes

• Crispy Sage Leaves: Top the pasta with the fried sage leaves for an extra crunch and aromatic touch.
• Toasted Walnuts: Sprinkle coarsely chopped walnuts over the dish for added texture and nutty flavor.

Cheese Options

• Freshly Grated Parmesan: A generous sprinkle of parmesan enhances the savory notes of the dish.
• Whipped Ricotta: Dollop smooth ricotta on top for a creamy finish that balances the meal.

Pairing Suggestions

• Green Salad: Serve alongside a light green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to refresh the palate.
• Garlic Bread: Offer warm garlic bread as a side to soak up any leftover sauce.

Wine Pairing (Non-Alcoholic)

• Sparkling Water with Lemon: A refreshing non-alcoholic drink that complements the richness of the pasta beautifully.

How to Perfect Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage

Perfecting your Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage can take your culinary skills to new heights. Follow these tips for a flawless dish every time.

• Bold Seasoning: Ensure you season each layer, from the squash to the pasta, for a well-rounded flavor profile.
• Proper Cooking of Pasta: Cook your pasta just until al dente; it will continue cooking when combined with the sauce.
• Sautéing Technique: Stir often while sautéing the butternut squash to achieve even caramelization and tenderness.
• Brown Butter Mastery: Keep a close eye on your butter while browning; it can go from perfect to burnt quickly.
• Adjust Consistency: Add pasta water gradually to achieve a silky sauce; don’t rush this process.
• Taste Test: Always taste before serving; adjust seasoning as necessary for optimal flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage

Complement your Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage with these delightful side dishes. Each adds its own unique flair to your meal.

1. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing offer a classic pairing that contrasts well with the pasta’s richness.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in olive oil and roasted until crispy, these provide a delicious earthy element.
3. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned and grilled, asparagus adds a fresh crunch that balances the creamy pasta.
4. Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet effective; steamed broccoli brings vibrant color and nutrition alongside the hearty pasta.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with quinoa or rice add variety and protein to your meal.
6. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing contrast in flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage, it’s easy to overlook a few key details that can impact your dish. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Not salting the pasta water: Failing to salt your boiling water can result in bland pasta. Always add a generous amount of salt to enhance the flavor of your noodles.
• Overcooking the squash: If you cook the butternut squash too long, it can become mushy. Keep an eye on it and stir frequently for even caramelization, ensuring it’s tender yet firm.
• Skipping the reserved pasta water: The starchy pasta water is essential for creating a smooth sauce. Make sure to reserve some before draining and use it when mixing with the sauce.
• Using cold ricotta: If you choose to add ricotta, make sure it’s at room temperature or whipped until smooth. Cold ricotta can cool down your dish and affect its texture.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Taste your dish before serving! Adjust salt, pepper, or spices as needed. Each ingredient can differ in potency, so don’t skip this step.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the pasta to cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Label containers with dates for easy tracking.

Freezing Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage

• Freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months.
• Ensure all air is removed from bags to prevent freezer burn.
• Portion out servings for easy reheating later.

Reheating Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer pasta to an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a single serving in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes. Stir halfway through heating.
• Stovetop: In a pan over medium heat, add a splash of reserved pasta water along with your leftover pasta. Stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of pasta works best for Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage?

You can use bucatini, spaghetti, or linguine for this recipe. Each type holds onto the sauce differently but will taste delicious!

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! You can substitute butter with plant-based butter and omit the ricotta cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

How do I customize my Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage?

Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or kale or proteins such as grilled chicken or turkey for added flavor and nutrition.

What if I don’t have sage leaves?

If fresh sage isn’t available, try using dried sage instead. Use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the butternut squash and sauce ahead of time; just cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to serve.

Conclusion

Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage is not only comforting but also elegant enough to impress guests. The blend of flavors from sweet squash and aromatic sage creates a delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins for a personal touch!