Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta

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Creamy butternut squash pasta dish topped with herbs and cheese
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Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta is a delightful dish that warms both the heart and the palate. Combining the natural sweetness of butternut squash with the creamy texture of the sauce, this pasta dish is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special gathering. The rich flavors and comforting texture make it a favorite among both children and adults. Once you take a forkful, the luscious, creamy sauce will envelop the pasta, creating an unforgettable meal!

Recipe Information

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

  • Calories per serving: 410
  • Protein: 10 g
  • Carbohydrates: 60 g
  • Fat: 16 g
  • Fiber: 5 g
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 350 mg

Why Make This Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta

This Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta is not just a feast for the taste buds, but it’s also packed with nutrition. Butternut squash is rich in vitamins A and C, which are great for boosting your immune system. The smooth, creamy sauce made with heavy or coconut cream complements the earthy squash, creating a dish that is both satisfying and comforting. Plus, it’s relatively quick and easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or impressing guests at dinner parties.

How to Make Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta

Making Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta is straightforward and requires just a few simple steps. Let’s dive into the details!

Ingredients:

  • 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
  • 8 oz pasta (e.g., fettuccine or penne)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Parmesan cheese, for serving
  • Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Directions:

  • Step 1: Cook the Pasta

    Begin by cooking the pasta according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside. This will be combined with the creamy sauce later.

  • Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

    In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, which should take about 1 minute. The aroma will fill your kitchen with a delightful scent!

  • Step 3: Cook the Butternut Squash

    Add the diced butternut squash to the skillet and cook until tender, about 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. The squash should be soft enough to mash easily with a fork.

  • Step 4: Simmer with Vegetable Broth

    Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. This helps to soften the squash further and deepen the flavors.

  • Step 5: Blend the Mixture

    Using an immersion blender, blend the mixture until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer it to a conventional blender. Once blended, return the sauce to the skillet.

  • Step 6: Make it Creamy

    Stir in the heavy cream (or coconut cream) and add the cooked pasta to the sauce. Mix until the pasta is well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

  • Step 7: Serve with Garnish

    Serve the pasta topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley for an extra touch of flavor and color.

How to Serve Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta

This delicious pasta can be served as a main dish or even as a side. Pair it with a crisp green salad for a light meal or with garlic bread for a comforting feast. It’s also fantastic for lunches the next day, as the flavors meld beautifully.

How to Store Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove with a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen the sauce.

Expert Tips for Perfect Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta

  • To enhance the flavor, roast the butternut squash before adding it to the sauce. This step caramelizes the sugars and adds depth.
  • Consider using whole-grain pasta or gluten-free pasta for a healthier or allergy-friendly option.
  • If you prefer a vegan version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and omit the Parmesan cheese.

Delicious Variations

  • Add sautéed spinach or kale for extra nutrition and color.
  • Incorporate cooked chicken or sausage for a protein-packed meal.
  • Try different cheeses, such as goat cheese or feta, for a unique twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I use frozen butternut squash?
    Yes! Frozen squash can save time and still yield a delicious result. Just ensure it’s thawed before cooking.

  • What pasta works best?
    You can use any pasta shape that holds sauce well, such as fettuccine, penne, or even shell pasta.

  • Is this dish gluten-free?
    To make this dish gluten-free, simply substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta.

  • Can I make this ahead of time?
    Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and cook the pasta when you’re ready to serve. Combine them just before serving for the best texture.

  • How can I make this spicier?
    If you enjoy a little heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes during the sautéing of the garlic.

Conclusion

Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta is a wonderful dish to add to your culinary repertoire. With its creamy texture, rich flavors, and beautiful color, it’s sure to please everyone at your table. Embrace the simplicity of this recipe, and don’t hesitate to experiment with variations that suit your taste. Gather your ingredients, and enjoy sharing this warm, comforting dish with your loved ones!

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Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta

  • Author: mia-harper
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian
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Description

A delightful pasta dish that combines the natural sweetness of butternut squash with a creamy sauce, perfect for cozy dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
  • 8 oz pasta (e.g., fettuccine or penne)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Parmesan cheese, for serving
  • Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  3. Add diced butternut squash and cook until tender, approximately 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
  5. Blend the mixture until smooth using an immersion blender or by transferring it to a conventional blender.
  6. Return the sauce to the skillet, stir in heavy cream (or coconut cream), then add the cooked pasta and mix until well coated.
  7. Serve topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with basil or parsley.

Notes

For extra flavor, roast the butternut squash before adding it to the sauce. To keep it vegan, use coconut cream and omit Parmesan cheese.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 410
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 60g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

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