Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that brings the flavors of fall right to your table, you’ve come to the right place! This Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic is a recipe I adore, and it’s one I keep coming back to every autumn. The creamy feta melts beautifully into the pasta, mingling with the sweet butternut squash and fragrant sage to create a delightful symphony of flavors.

It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick yet satisfying or for family gatherings where everyone can dig in and enjoy together. Trust me, once you try this dish, it will become a beloved staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just about 40 minutes, meaning less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying with your loved ones.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will be drawn to its creamy texture and delicious flavors, making it a hit at any dinner table.
• Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with wholesome ingredients like butternut squash and fresh sage, you’ll feel good serving this hearty meal.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for meal prep! You can bake it ahead of time and reheat it for an effortless dinner later in the week.
• Versatile Ingredients: With simple ingredients that are easy to find, you can customize this dish to suit your taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients will have you well on your way to creating this wonderful dish. Each element plays a crucial role in building flavor!

• 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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add extra veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale for added nutrition and color.
• Change the cheese: If feta isn’t your style, try using goat cheese or a plant-based alternative for a different flavor profile.
• Spice it up: Add more red pepper flakes or toss in some diced jalapeños if you like things spicy!
• Switch up the pasta: Use whole grain or gluten-free pasta options to cater to different dietary needs.

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

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. This ensures that everything cooks evenly from the get-go. While the oven warms up, you’ll prepare the butternut squash.

Step 2: Prepare the Butternut Squash

In a large mixing bowl, toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and a few cracks of fresh black pepper. It’s important to coat each piece well; this helps them roast beautifully in the oven. Next, place your seasoned squash in a baking dish and nestle the block of feta right in the center. Drizzle a little olive oil over the feta too—this makes it melt into creamy perfection!

Step 3: Bake Your Mixture

Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven for about 30 minutes. As it bakes, those lovely squash pieces will caramelize while infusing their sweetness into everything around them. After 30 minutes, check on it; give the squash a gentle stir without disturbing the feta. Crank up the heat to 450°F and let it bake for another 5-10 minutes until that feta gets golden brown.

Step 4: Cook Your Pasta

While your butternut squash and feta are baking away, boil a pot of salted water for your pasta. Once it’s al dente—just firm enough to hold its shape—strain it but remember to save about two cups of that precious pasta water! This starchy water is magic when creating sauces.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Once you’ve removed that beautiful baked mixture from the oven, stir in minced garlic, minced sage leaves, and hot honey immediately! The residual heat will enhance those flavors even more. Now add your cooked pasta along with one cup of reserved pasta water. Stir gently until everything is mixed well—this is where all those yummy flavors really come together.

Step 6: Adjust Consistency

If your pasta seems dry at any point (we all know how pasta can soak up moisture!), simply add more reserved pasta water until you reach that creamy goodness you’re after. Give it another sprinkle of salt and pepper if needed—and don’t forget that extra drizzle of hot honey if you love a sweet kick!

And there you have it—a deliciously creamy Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic that’s sure to warm hearts this fall! Enjoy!

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

Creating a delicious Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta is simple, but these pro tips will help you elevate your dish to the next level!

• Choose ripe butternut squash: Selecting a squash that feels heavy for its size and has a deep orange color ensures better sweetness and flavor in your pasta.

• Use high-quality feta cheese: A good quality feta will melt beautifully and impart a wonderful creaminess to the dish, enhancing the overall taste.

• Adjust spice levels: If you’re not a fan of heat, feel free to skip the red pepper flakes. Alternatively, you can add more or use a spicy feta for an extra kick!

• Reserve pasta water wisely: Save at least two cups of pasta water—it’s key for achieving that creamy sauce. The starch in the water will help bind everything together beautifully.

• Experiment with herbs: While sage provides a lovely earthy flavor, try adding other fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different twist on this comforting dish.

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

This dish is not only hearty but also visually appealing, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings. Here are some ideas on how to present your delicious creation!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a burst of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Toasted pine nuts: For a delightful crunch, sprinkle some toasted pine nuts on top. They add texture and nutty flavor that complements the creamy feta beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Arugula Salad: A simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette offers a peppery contrast to the rich flavors of the pasta.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in olive oil, salt, and pepper, roasted Brussels sprouts provide a caramelized finish that pairs perfectly with the sweet butternut squash.
• Garlic Bread: Warm slices of garlic bread make for an irresistible side that’s perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your pasta.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds vibrant color and nutritional value to your meal without overwhelming the flavors of the main dish.

Enjoy your cooking adventure with this delightful recipe! It’s sure to become a fall favorite at your dinner table!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic is a fantastic option for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and store it for quick weeknight dinners. Here’s how to keep your delicious dish fresh:

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• To maintain the best flavor, try to finish the dish within this timeframe.

Freezing

• Let the pasta cool completely before freezing.
• Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag, leaving some room for expansion.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil if necessary to loosen the sauce.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals until heated through, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

Can I use different types of pasta for Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic?

Absolutely! While rotini, orzo, or ditalini work beautifully, feel free to try other pasta shapes you enjoy. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

How do I ensure my Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic is creamy?

The secret to a creamy sauce lies in reserving some pasta water. Gradually add it after combining the pasta with the feta mixture until you reach your desired consistency.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! Simply substitute the feta cheese with a plant-based alternative that melts well. You’ll still achieve that creamy texture without using dairy.

What can I serve alongside Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic?

A simple green salad or roasted vegetables would pair nicely to complement this hearty dish while keeping your meal balanced.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re excited to dive into this Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic! It’s not only a comforting dish but also one that brings warmth to any table. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or meal prep for busy weekdays, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy making it, and don’t forget to share your experience!