Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that wraps up the comforting flavors of fall with a hint of elegance, then this Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta is your next kitchen obsession. Roasted butternut squash brings a natural sweetness and velvety texture, perfectly balanced by fragrant sage and a touch of cheesy creaminess. Every forkful feels like a warm hug, making it an ideal meal for cozy nights or when you want to impress friends with something both simple and special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but each one plays a key role in building the flavors and textures that make this dish unforgettable. From the sweetness of roasted butternut squash to the earthy notes of sage and the crunch of toasted walnuts, everything comes together like a symphony of taste.

• 12 oz pasta: Choose fettuccine or penne to soak up that luscious sauce perfectly.
• 2 cups diced butternut squash: Roasted to caramelized tender perfection, it’s the star ingredient.
• 3 tablespoons olive oil: Divided for roasting and sautéing, it adds richness and helps flavor develop.
• 1 small onion: Finely chopped for a sweet and subtle base layer of flavor.
• 3 cloves garlic: Minced to give a fragrant punch without overpowering.
• 1 teaspoon fresh sage: Or ½ teaspoon dried sage; its earthy aroma complements squash beautifully.
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Adds just a hint of heat to keep things interesting.
• Salt and pepper: Essential to enhance every ingredient.
• ½ cup vegetable broth: Adds moisture and depth to the sauce.
• ½ cup heavy cream or coconut milk: Creamy component for silky texture, with dairy-free option.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Plus extra for serving—brings savory umami to the dish.
• ¼ cup toasted walnuts: Roughly chopped for delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
• Fresh sage leaves: For bright, fresh garnish and subtle herbal notes.

How to Make Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta

Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the diced butternut squash on a baking sheet, drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and season generously with salt and pepper. Toss everything to coat evenly. Roast for 25 to 30 minutes until the squash is tender and golden with lovely caramelized edges. This roasting step brings out its natural sweetness and makes the squash melt-in-your-mouth tender.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the squash roasts, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta of choice—fettuccine or penne work especially well—and cook until just al dente according to the package instructions. Before draining, save one cup of the pasta water; it’s liquid gold you’ll use later to loosen the sauce perfectly. Drain the pasta and set it aside for now.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the finely chopped onion and cook gently for about 5 minutes until it’s soft and translucent. Then stir in the minced garlic, fresh sage, and red pepper flakes if you want a little heat. Sauté for another 1 to 2 minutes until everything smells irresistible and fragrant.

Step 4: Bring the Sauce Together

Carefully add the roasted butternut squash to the skillet, followed by the vegetable broth. Use a fork or potato masher to gently mash some of the squash pieces, creating a creamy base for the sauce while still leaving some chunks for texture. Pour in the heavy cream (or coconut milk) and sprinkle over the Parmesan cheese. Stir gently to combine. If the sauce feels too thick, drizzle in reserved pasta water little by little until you reach that perfect silky consistency.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Return the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together so each piece of pasta is coated in that rich, savory sauce. Taste and adjust with extra salt and pepper if needed. This final step ensures the pasta is infused with the vibrant flavors of butternut squash, sage, and creamy Parmesan.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Dish out your Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta into beautiful bowls. Top each serving with a sprinkle of toasted walnuts for crunch, additional grated Parmesan for a cheesy finish, and fresh sage leaves for a colorful, aromatic touch. This stunning presentation will invite everyone to dive in right away.

How to Serve Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta

Garnishes

The magic finale for this pasta includes toasted walnuts for a satisfying crunch that contrasts the creamy sauce, along with fresh sage leaves that bring fresh, herbal brightness. A generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan on top adds an irresistible salty note that elevates every bite.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with crisp, refreshing sides like a mixed green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette or roasted Brussels sprouts for added texture and depth. For a heartier meal, pair it with crusty garlic bread or a warm bowl of butternut squash soup to keep the seasonal theme going strong.

Creative Ways to Present

Elevate your presentation by serving this pasta in shallow rustic bowls to showcase the vibrant orange butternut squash and green sage leaves. You could also sprinkle a few pomegranate seeds for a burst of color and sweetness or add a drizzle of browned butter infused with sage for silky luxury. These little touches will make your Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually develop further as they meld overnight, making it a fantastic meal prep option for busy days.

Freezing

If you want to stash some pasta for longer, place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers. It freezes best without the fresh sage leaves and toasted walnuts, as these are best added fresh after thawing. Frozen pasta can be kept up to 2 months and is great for quick reheat dinners.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat; add a splash of pasta water or cream to refresh the sauce’s creaminess and prevent it from drying out. Stir occasionally until heated through. Avoid the microwave for best texture and flavor.

FAQs

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

Absolutely! While butternut squash is perfect for its sweetness and smooth texture, sweet potatoes or acorn squash could also work well to bring a similar cozy vibe to the dish.

Is this recipe suitable for a dairy-free diet?

Yes, you can easily swap the heavy cream for coconut milk and omit or replace Parmesan with a dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast to keep everything creamy and flavorful without dairy.

What pasta shape works best with Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta?

Fettuccine and penne are excellent choices because their surface area helps catch the sauce nicely. However, feel free to use any pasta you love or have on hand for your own twist.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Sure! You can prepare the roasted squash and sauce in advance, then just cook and toss the pasta when you’re ready to serve for a quick, satisfying meal.

How do I adjust the spice level?

If you like heat, definitely keep the red pepper flakes. To make it milder, simply leave them out — the dish will still be rich, savory, and delightfully aromatic.

Final Thoughts

This Savory Butternut Squash & Sage Pasta is the perfect way to celebrate seasonal flavors with a dish that feels both nostalgic and fresh. With its beautiful balance of sweet, creamy, and herbaceous notes, it’s bound to become a beloved recipe you’ll reach for again and again. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own cozy classic!