Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta Recipe

There is something truly magical about the Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta that makes it a standout comfort dish you’ll want to make again and again. This recipe brings together the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash with the earthy aroma of fresh sage, all wrapped in a luxuriously creamy sauce tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a beautiful celebration of flavors and textures that feels both cozy and elegant, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering. Trust me, once you try this dish, it’ll quickly become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this delightful Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta, you only need a handful of simple, fresh ingredients that work harmoniously to deliver rich flavors, pleasing textures, and stunning colors. Each component plays a key role in building the depth and balance of the final dish.

• Pasta (12 oz): Choose fettuccine or penne to beautifully carry the creamy sauce without overpowering the squash.
• Butternut squash (2 cups, diced): Roasting the squash caramelizes its natural sugars, adding a mellow sweetness and tender bite.
• Olive oil (3 tbsp, divided): Essential for roasting and sautéing to enhance flavor and bring everything together.
• Onion (1 small, finely chopped): Adds gentle sweetness and body to the aroma base.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Brings a subtle, savory warmth that complements the sage and squash beautifully.
• Fresh sage (1 tsp, finely chopped): Its earthy, piney notes elevate the dish’s character; dried sage works if fresh is unavailable.
• Red pepper flakes (½ tsp, optional): For a slight kick of heat that wakes up the palate.
• Salt and pepper: To season precisely and bring all the flavors into harmony.
• Vegetable broth (½ cup): Helps create a silky sauce while adding subtle savory depth.
• Heavy cream or coconut milk (½ cup): Provides luxurious creaminess, with coconut milk offering a dairy-free twist.
• Parmesan cheese (½ cup grated, plus extra): Delivers savoury umami and a pleasant salty tang, perfect for finishing your pasta.
• Toasted walnuts (¼ cup, roughly chopped): Adds satisfying crunch and nuttiness for a boost of texture contrast.
• Fresh sage leaves: For garnish, to visually elevate your dish and intensify its sage aroma.

How to Make Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta

Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to get it nice and hot for roasting. Spread out diced butternut squash on a baking sheet, drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, season with salt and pepper, then toss everything to coat evenly. Roasting the squash for 25 to 30 minutes softens it to buttery perfection and caramelizes its edges, unlocking a natural sweetness that perfectly complements the sage.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the squash is roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Drop in your pasta and cook it according to the package directions until it reaches al dente — tender but still with a slight bite. Don’t forget to reserve a cup of the starchy pasta water before draining; this liquid is pure magic when it comes to adjusting your sauce later.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it’s softened and translucent, which builds a subtle sweetness. Next, add the garlic, fresh sage, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Let these mingle together for another 1 to 2 minutes until the air is filled with their inviting fragrance.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

Now, add the golden roasted butternut squash straight into the skillet. Pour in the vegetable broth to loosen things up and start to meld flavors. Take a fork or masher and gently mash some of the squash — this technique creates a luscious sauce base studded with tender chunks. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan, which enriches the sauce with creamy texture and savory depth. If your sauce feels too thick, splash in some reserved pasta water until it reaches your favorite consistency.

Step 5: Toss the Pasta

Lastly, add your cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss it gently but thoroughly, making sure every strand or piece is wrapped in the velvety sauce dotted with sage and squash. Give it a quick taste test and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed to make those flavors pop.

Step 6: Serve Immediately

Dish out your pasta into pretty bowls and get ready for the fun part — the garnishes! The toasted walnuts and fresh sage leaves add irresistible crunch and fragrance, while an extra sprinkle of grated Parmesan amps up savory richness.

How to Serve Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta

Garnishes

The toasted walnuts offer a lovely texture contrast with their satisfying crunch and subtle nuttiness, which complements the smooth sauce beautifully. Fresh sage leaves bring a burst of herbal brightness and seasonal flair—lightly bruise them between your fingers before sprinkling to release those fragrant oils. And don’t be shy with extra Parmesan cheese for that finishing touch of richness.

Side Dishes

This pasta shines on its own, but pairing it with a simple, crisp green salad tossed with a lemon vinaigrette really balances out the fullness of the dish. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette on the side also invites you to soak up every last bit of the gorgeous squash sauce. For a heartier meal, roasted Brussels sprouts or sautéed kale add extra layers of flavor and nutrition.

Creative Ways to Present

For an elegant dinner, try serving the Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta in shallow bowls with a sprig of sage poised atop. You can swirl the sauce and pasta together just before plating for a rustic look or twirl long strands of fettuccine with tongs for a refined presentation. For a fun twist, sprinkle the toasted walnuts separately, letting guests add as much crunch as they desire. A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil at the end brings a gorgeous glossy finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of this Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, but keep in mind the toasted walnuts are best added fresh just before serving to maintain their crunch.

Freezing

If you want to freeze this dish, it’s best to store the pasta and sauce separately from any garnishes. Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge to preserve the smooth texture of the sauce and the integrity of the squash.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth to bring back creaminess and prevent drying out. Stir frequently until warmed through. Alternatively, a quick microwave session uncovered, stirring halfway, works well too. Just remember to add fresh toasted walnuts and sage leaves after reheating to keep the garnish crisp and fragrant.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While fettuccine and penne work beautifully because their shape holds the sauce well, feel free to experiment with rigatoni, farfalle, or even gluten-free pasta options depending on your preference.

Is there a dairy-free alternative for this dish?

Yes, swapping heavy cream for coconut milk creates a lovely dairy-free version with a subtle hint of coconut flavor. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan for a vegan-friendly cheesy taste.

How spicy is the Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta?

The optional red pepper flakes add just a gentle heat that complements the sweetness of the squash. You can adjust the amount or leave them out to keep the flavor mild and approachable.

Can I prepare the components ahead of time?

Definitely. Roasted butternut squash and sautéed aromatics can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge. When ready, simply combine everything to make the sauce and finish the dish fresh.

What’s the best way to toast walnuts for the garnish?

Toasting walnuts is simple and rewarding! Just place them in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently for 5–7 minutes until they smell fragrant and turn golden brown. Be careful not to burn them, as walnuts can become bitter if over-toasted.

Final Thoughts

The Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta is one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug on a plate—so comforting, full of flavor, and surprisingly simple to make. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this dish brings a touch of seasonal magic and heartwarming goodness every time. I truly hope you give this recipe a try and that it becomes as beloved in your kitchen as it is in mine.

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