Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic

If you’re looking for a cozy dinner that warms your heart and fills your belly, you’ve landed in the right place! This Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic has become a staple in my kitchen every Fall. It’s not just easy to make; it’s packed with flavors that remind me of crisp autumn days. Picture a creamy pasta dish, infused with the sweetness of roasted butternut squash and the savory goodness of feta cheese—what’s not to love?

Whether you’re busy with weeknight activities or hosting friends for a casual gathering, this recipe is perfect. It comes together effortlessly, allowing you to enjoy more time around the table with loved ones. Trust me; once you try this dish, it will be on your regular rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in under an hour, making it ideal for those busy nights when you just want something delicious without the fuss.
• Family-Friendly: The combination of creamy feta and sweet butternut squash appeals to both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep the roasted veggies ahead of time, and simply toss everything together when you’re ready to eat.
• Comforting Flavor: The rich flavors of garlic and sage elevate this pasta into a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this dish. You probably have most of these items in your pantry already!

• 5 cups Butternut Squash (about 1 large butternut squash)
• 1/2 cup Olive Oil (plus more for drizzling)
• 2 hefty pinches Kosher Salt (just shy of 1/2 tsp)
• 1 hefty pinch Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
• 1 8 oz block Feta Cheese
• 1 lb Pasta (such as rotini, orzo, or ditalini)
• 10 leaves Fresh Sage (minced)
• 3 cloves Garlic (finely minced)
• 1 tbsp Hot Honey (regular honey is fine too)
• Fresh Cracked Black Pepper

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add More Greens: Toss in some fresh spinach or kale just before serving for an extra boost of nutrients.
• Change the Cheese: Swap out feta for goat cheese or even a dairy-free alternative if you’re looking for something different.
• Spice It Up: If you love heat, add more red pepper flakes or even diced jalapeños to give it a kick!
• Try Different Pasta Shapes: Use your favorite pasta shape! Penne or farfalle can add a fun twist to this comforting dish.

How to Make Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F. This step is crucial as it ensures that your butternut squash roasts perfectly while you prepare everything else.

Step 2: Prepare the Butternut Squash

Toss the diced butternut squash with olive oil, kosher salt, and fresh cracked black pepper in a baking dish. Place the block of feta cheese right in the center. Drizzle a little olive oil over the feta and sprinkle on red pepper flakes if using. Bake everything for about 30 minutes until the squash is tender and slightly caramelized.

Step 3: Brown the Feta

After 30 minutes, carefully check if the squash isn’t burning. Increase your oven temperature to 450°F and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the feta turns golden brown. This step enhances its flavor and adds a lovely texture that complements the creamy pasta.

Step 4: Cook Your Pasta

While your veggies are roasting away, bring a pot of salted water to boil and cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Don’t forget to save about two cups of pasta water before straining!

Step 5: Combine Everything Together

Once your feta is beautifully browned, remove it from the oven. Immediately stir in minced garlic, minced sage leaves, and hot honey into the baking dish. Next, add in your drained pasta along with one cup of reserved pasta water. Give everything a good stir so each piece is coated in that creamy goodness.

Step 6: Adjust Consistency & Season

If it looks too dry—don’t worry! Just gradually add more reserved pasta water until you reach that perfect creamy consistency. Taste as you go, adding more salt, pepper, or hot honey if needed. This final touch ensures every bite bursts with flavor!

And there you have it! A delightful Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic that’s sure to impress at any dinner table! Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic

This delightful pasta dish is sure to impress, and a few handy tips can elevate it even further!

• Choose ripe butternut squash: A ripe squash will be sweeter and creamier when baked, which enhances the overall flavor of your dish.
• Use fresh sage: Fresh herbs make a world of difference! Their aroma and taste will brighten up the pasta, creating a more vibrant dish.
• Reserve pasta water wisely: Don’t skip saving that pasta water! It contains starch that helps create a creamy sauce when mixed with the feta, ensuring a luscious texture.
• Experiment with cheese alternatives: If you’re looking for a non-dairy alternative, try using vegan feta. It can provide a similar tangy flavor while keeping the dish plant-based.
• Customize spice levels: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes or hot honey based on your heat preference. This way, you can make the dish just right for your taste buds!

How to Serve Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic

Presentation is key when serving this comforting pasta dish! Here are some ideas to make it look as delightful as it tastes.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley or basil: Chopped fresh herbs add color and a burst of freshness that complements the rich flavors of the dish.
• Toasted pine nuts or walnuts: Sprinkling some nuts on top adds a lovely crunch and an earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy feta.
• Extra drizzle of olive oil: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil before serving enhances richness and adds a glossy finish.

Side Dishes

• Simple Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These bring a savory depth to your meal. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting for added flavor.
• Garlic Bread: Perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce! Toast up some whole-grain bread brushed with garlic-infused olive oil for an irresistible side.
• Steamed Broccoli or Asparagus: Lightly steamed veggies not only add vibrant color but also provide essential nutrients to balance out this hearty dish.

Enjoy making this Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic! It’s perfect for cozy evenings at home or impressing guests at dinner parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic is perfect for meal prep, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights. You can easily prepare this dish in advance, ensuring you have delicious homemade meals ready to go.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It’s best enjoyed within 3-4 days for optimal taste and texture.
• To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of reserved pasta water.

Freezing

• For longer storage, freeze portions of the baked pasta in freezer-safe containers.
• Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing to avoid ice crystals forming.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Heat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a bit of water or olive oil to help with moisture.
• Alternatively, use the microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you may have about this delicious dish:

Can I use other types of cheese instead of feta for Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic?

Yes! While feta gives a unique flavor, you can substitute it with goat cheese or a creamy ricotta if you prefer. Just keep in mind that this will slightly change the overall taste and texture.

What type of pasta works best for Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic?

You can use various pasta shapes like rotini, orzo, or ditalini. Choose your favorite based on texture preference; just make sure to cook it al dente for the best results!

How can I make Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic vegan?

To make this recipe vegan, substitute feta cheese with a plant-based feta alternative. Additionally, use agave syrup or maple syrup instead of honey.

Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate other veggies like spinach, kale, or even bell peppers to enhance nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic is truly special! It’s not only a comforting dish packed with flavor but also versatile enough for any occasion. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do! Don’t hesitate to share your experience or any tweaks you made; I love hearing from fellow food lovers. Happy cooking!