Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta

This creamy butternut squash pasta is a rich and comforting dish that’s both easy to make and full of flavor. Roasted butternut squash is blended into a velvety sauce that perfectly coats the pasta, creating a dish that’s both creamy and hearty. With a few simple ingredients, this pasta is a satisfying meal the whole family will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy butternut squash pasta is an incredibly satisfying meal that combines the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash with savory, creamy goodness. It’s easy to make and requires minimal ingredients, but delivers big on flavor. The smooth and velvety sauce, enhanced with garlic, onions, and vegetable broth, brings out the best in the squash. Plus, it’s versatile enough to accommodate different dietary preferences, making it a perfect choice for family meals or a quick dinner. It’s creamy, comforting, and simply delicious.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cut into 2-inch cubes

• 1 small onion, quartered

• 4 garlic cloves

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 ½ cup low sodium vegetable broth

• ½ cup milk

• 1 pound spaghetti

• Grated parmesan cheese for serving

• Chopped parsley for serving

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Place the cubed butternut squash, onion, and garlic cloves on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast for about 30 minutes, until the squash is caramelized and golden.

3. While the squash is roasting, cook the pasta in a pot of salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving ½ cup of the pasta water.

4. Transfer the roasted butternut squash, onion, and garlic to a large saucepan. Add the vegetable broth, milk, and the reserved pasta water. Use an immersion blender to blend the mixture until smooth and creamy.

5. Add the cooked pasta to the butternut squash sauce, tossing to combine and coat the pasta evenly.

6. Serve the pasta warm with grated parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for garnish, if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 30 minutes

• Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Vegan Version: Use almond milk or any plant-based milk in place of regular milk, and skip the parmesan cheese or substitute with a vegan version.

• For a Creamier Sauce: Replace the milk with heavy cream for a richer texture.

• Different Pasta Options: You can swap spaghetti for other pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli.

• Add Protein: For extra protein, consider adding cooked chicken, sausage, or roasted chickpeas.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the pasta on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or pasta water to adjust the consistency of the sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I make this pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the butternut squash sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, just reheat and toss with freshly cooked pasta.

2. Can I freeze the sauce?

Yes, you can freeze the butternut squash sauce for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely, then store in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. Reheat on the stove before serving.

3. What other pasta can I use besides spaghetti?

You can use any pasta you prefer such as penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.

4. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, just substitute the spaghetti with your favorite gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.

5. Can I use store-bought butternut squash puree instead of roasting the squash?

Yes, you can use store-bought butternut squash puree to save time. Use about 1 ½ to 2 cups of puree and skip the roasting step.

6. Can I add some vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add spinach, kale, or roasted Brussels sprouts for added flavor and texture.

7. Can I use a regular blender instead of an immersion blender?

Yes, you can blend the sauce in a regular blender, but you might need to do it in batches. Be careful when transferring hot ingredients!

8. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the milk with any dairy-free milk, and skip the parmesan cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternative.

9. Can I make this recipe spicy?

Yes, you can add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a little heat.

10. How do I know when the butternut squash is roasted perfectly?

The squash should be soft and golden, with some caramelization around the edges. If it’s tender and easy to mash with a fork, it’s ready.

Conclusion

This creamy butternut squash pasta is the perfect meal for a cozy dinner that’s both delicious and satisfying. The creamy, roasted butternut squash sauce is rich, comforting, and packed with flavor. It’s easy to make, incredibly versatile, and can be enjoyed by everyone, from vegans to meat lovers. Serve it up with a sprinkle of parmesan and some fresh parsley, and you’ve got a meal that’s sure to impress!