Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic

If you’re looking for a cozy and comforting meal that feels like a warm hug, then this Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic is just the thing! This dish combines creamy feta with sweet roasted butternut squash, all enveloped in tender pasta. It’s one of those magical recipes that brings family together around the dinner table, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings alike. Plus, the delightful aroma of sage and garlic wafting through your kitchen will make everyone eager to dig in!

What I love most about this dish is how simple it is to prepare. With a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can create a delicious meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. The best part? It’s so versatile you can whip it up any time of year!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious meal on the table in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves pasta! This dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prep the butternut squash and feta ahead of time, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
• Seasonal Flavors: The combination of sage and roasted butternut squash captures the essence of fall, bringing warmth to your dining experience.
• Creamy Delight: The baked feta creates a rich, creamy sauce that clings beautifully to each piece of pasta.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this delightful dish, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll gather:

For the Pasta

• 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 at home or your personal preferences.

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale for an extra boost of greens.
• Change Up the Cheese: Swap feta for goat cheese or a dairy-free alternative if you’re looking for something different.
• Adjust the Heat: If you love spice, add more red pepper flakes or even some diced jalapeños!
• Switch Up the Pasta Shape: Use whatever pasta shape your family enjoys – penne or fusilli would work great too!

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

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400F degrees. Getting the oven nice and hot ensures that your butternut squash roasts perfectly, caramelizing its natural sugars while softening beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare the Butternut Squash and Feta

In a large bowl, toss your cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and cracked black pepper. Make sure every piece is well-coated! Transfer this mix into a baking dish and place your block of feta right in the center. A drizzle of olive oil over the feta along with some red pepper flakes will elevate its flavor as it bakes. Pop it in the oven for about 30 minutes.

Step 3: Brown the Feta

After those first 30 minutes, take out your baking dish. Gently move around the butternut squash without disturbing the feta—this step helps prevent burning on the bottom. Turn up the heat to 450F and bake for another 5-10 minutes until the feta is golden brown. This browning adds an amazing depth of flavor!

Step 4: Cook Your Pasta

While everything is baking away in the oven, boil a pot of water with plenty of salt. Add your pasta when it’s at a rolling boil and cook until al dente. Remember to save about two cups of that starchy pasta water before straining—it’s liquid gold for creating your sauce!

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

When your feta has reached that beautiful brown hue, take out your baking dish once more. Stir in minced garlic, sage leaves, and honey right away—this lets all those flavors meld beautifully as they heat together. Then add in your drained pasta along with one cup of reserved pasta water; stir gently until everything is well combined.

Step 6: Adjust Consistency

If you find that your pasta looks a bit dry (which can happen sometimes), don’t worry! Just add more reserved pasta water a little bit at a time until you reach that creamy consistency you desire. Taste everything before serving and adjust with more salt or pepper as needed!

With these steps completed, you’re now ready to enjoy an incredible plate of Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic! Your friends and family are sure to love it just as much as I do!

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

Creating the perfect Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta is all about the little details that elevate your dish from good to great. Here are some pro tips to help you nail it every time:

• Choose the Right Pasta: Using pasta shapes like rotini or ditalini will help capture more of the creamy sauce, ensuring each bite is flavorful.

• Mind the Roast: Keep an eye on your butternut squash as it roasts; you want it tender and caramelized, not burnt. This adds a lovely sweetness and depth of flavor.

• Adjust Your Creaminess: If you find the pasta is too dry after mixing in the water, gradually add more reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. A creamy texture can make all the difference!

• Experiment with Herbs: While sage is a star in this dish, feel free to mix in other herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile. Fresh herbs can brighten up the dish beautifully.

• Make it Spicy (or Not): If you’re a fan of heat, don’t skip on the red pepper flakes! They add a delightful kick that balances the sweetness of butternut squash.

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

Presentation is key when serving this beautiful dish! With its vibrant colors and rich textures, you’ll want to showcase it nicely. Here are some suggestions for serving:

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: Sprinkling fresh parsley over your pasta adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the richness of the dish.
• Toasted Pine Nuts: These provide a nutty crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy feta and soft squash. Just toast them lightly in a pan for extra flavor.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm, crusty garlic bread alongside to soak up any extra sauce. It’s a comforting classic that pairs wonderfully with pasta.
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to your hearty main dish.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in olive oil and seasoned simply, these crunchy sprouts will add another layer of flavor while keeping things healthy.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides both color and nutrition, making it an excellent side that won’t compete with your pasta’s rich flavors.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy a cozy meal that’s sure to impress family or friends alike! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic is perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch ahead of time, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3-4 days for the best flavor and texture.
• Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to rehydrate.

Freezing

• Allow the pasta to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer to freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion.
• Enjoy within 2-3 months for optimal taste; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding reserved pasta water gradually until creamy.
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely; heat in 1-minute intervals until warm throughout.

FAQs

If you’re curious about this delicious dish, here are some common questions!

Can I make Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic without feta cheese?

Absolutely! You can substitute feta with a plant-based cream cheese or ricotta-style cheese for a similar creamy texture that’s dairy-free.

How can I customize my Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like spinach or kale. You can also incorporate proteins like chickpeas or grilled chicken for added heartiness.

What makes Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic so special?

This recipe combines sweet butternut squash, savory feta, and fragrant sage for a delightful balance of flavors that’s comforting yet healthy—perfect for any occasion!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic as much as I do! It’s a comforting dish that brings together the warmth of fall flavors, making it perfect for cozy dinners. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your own twists—I’d love to hear about your variations! Happy cooking!