butternut squash pasta sauce recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best butternut squash pasta sauce recipe

I have been making this butternut squash pasta sauce for years, and it is always a hit with my family. The first time I tried it, I was looking for a way to get my kids to eat more vegetables without a fight. This creamy, slightly sweet sauce does the trick every time. It is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting but not too heavy, and it also works great for a cozy Sunday dinner. Butternut squash is packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, and potassium, so I feel good about serving it. The sauce is simple to make and comes together in under an hour, which is a win in my book.

Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta Sauce

4.7 from 1588 votes

This rich and velvety butternut squash pasta sauce is a healthy twist on a classic comfort dish. It is naturally sweet and savory, perfect for coating your favorite pasta.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Sauce

1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup vegetable broth
1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

For Serving

12 ounces pasta of your choice
Fresh sage leaves for garnish

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F.
2Toss the cubed butternut squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and spread it on a baking sheet. Roast for 25 to 30 minutes until tender and lightly browned.
3While the squash roasts, cook your pasta according to package directions. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
4In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
5Add the roasted squash, vegetable broth, heavy cream, salt, pepper, and nutmeg to the skillet. Stir to combine and let it simmer for 2 minutes.
6Transfer the mixture to a blender and blend until smooth. Alternatively, use an immersion blender directly in the skillet. Stir in the Parmesan cheese if using.
7Toss the sauce with the cooked pasta, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to thin the sauce. Garnish with fresh sage leaves and serve warm.

🔧Equipment

Baking sheet
Large pot
Blender or immersion blender
Large skillet or saucepan

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

For a vegan version, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and skip the Parmesan. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.

Watch Video Of How Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta Sauce Works

This butternut squash pasta sauce is one of those recipes that always works. It is creamy, healthy, and comes together with simple ingredients you probably already have. Whether it is a busy weeknight or a holiday gathering, this dish is a reliable choice that everyone will enjoy.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta Sauce

1. Can I use frozen butternut squash instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen cubed butternut squash to save time. Just thaw it first and pat it dry before roasting. Roasting time may be slightly shorter, so keep an eye on it.

2. Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can make the sauce up to 3 days in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat it gently on the stove with a splash of broth or milk to bring back its creamy texture.

3. What pasta shapes work best with this sauce?

I love using short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli because the sauce clings to the ridges. But it also works great with spaghetti or fettuccine if that is what you have on hand.

4. Is this sauce gluten free?

The sauce itself is gluten free. Just be sure to serve it with gluten free pasta. Always check your broth and other ingredients to make sure they are certified gluten free.

5. Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes, you can add cooked chicken, Italian sausage, or even crispy bacon to make it a heartier meal. Simply stir them in when you toss the pasta with the sauce.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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