Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic

If you’re looking for a delightful dish that perfectly captures the essence of fall, look no further than this Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic. This recipe is a cherished favorite in my home, one that I find myself making on repeat as the leaves change and the air turns crisp. It’s quick to prepare and effortless to love, making it ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

The combination of creamy feta, tender butternut squash, and aromatic sage creates a cozy experience with every bite. It’s comfort food at its finest, and trust me, it will quickly become a staple in your kitchen too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in about 50 minutes, making it perfect for those busy nights when you need something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: With its creamy texture and delightful flavors, even the pickiest eaters will be asking for seconds!
• Seasonal Ingredients: Utilizing butternut squash and fresh sage not only elevates the taste but also celebrates the wonderful flavors of fall.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prep components ahead of time, saving you time during hectic evenings.
• Deliciously Creamy: The baked feta adds a rich creaminess that coats the pasta beautifully—each bite is pure bliss!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Gather these items to create your Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic:

• 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 make it your own with these tasty variations:

• Add Some Greens: Toss in some spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for an extra boost of nutrition.
• Change Up the Cheese: Try using goat cheese or a plant-based feta alternative if you want to switch things up.
• Spice It Up: Add more red pepper flakes or even some diced jalapeños for a little kick!
• Mix Different Veggies: Roasted carrots or bell peppers can be great additions to this dish.

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

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your butternut squash roasts perfectly while developing those lovely caramelized edges.

Step 2: Prepare the Butternut Squash

Toss your cubed butternut squash with olive oil, two hefty pinches of salt, and a few cracks of fresh black pepper. Spread it out in a baking dish and place the block of feta right in the center. Drizzle a bit more olive oil on top of the feta along with red pepper flakes if you like some heat. Bake everything together for about 30 minutes until the squash is tender.

Step 3: Finish Roasting

After 30 minutes have passed, take your baking dish out. Gently stir the squash without disturbing the feta. This step is crucial; we just want to ensure nothing burns on the bottom! Increase your oven temperature to 450°F (232°C) and bake for another 5-10 minutes until the feta starts turning golden brown.

Step 4: Cook Your Pasta

While the feta is getting golden brown, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta until al dente. Remember to reserve about two cups of pasta water before draining—it’s liquid gold for creating a creamy sauce!

Step 5: Combine Everything

Once your feta is beautifully browned, mix in minced garlic, minced sage leaves, and honey right away while it’s still hot. Stir in your cooked pasta along with one cup of reserved pasta water. This is where all that magical creaminess happens!

Step 6: Adjust Consistency

If you find your pasta looks dry, don’t worry! Just add more reserved pasta water little by little until everything is smooth and creamy. Finally, season generously with more salt and pepper according to taste—maybe even drizzle on some extra hot honey if you’re feeling daring!

Now you’re ready to serve up this comforting bowl of Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic! Enjoy every bite—you deserve it!

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

This dish is not only delicious but also super easy to customize, so here are some tips to make it even better!

• Choose the right pasta: Opting for pasta shapes like rotini or ditalini helps hold onto the creamy sauce, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.

• Experiment with herbs: While sage is a classic choice, feel free to mix in other fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to add your personal touch and enhance the dish’s aroma.

• Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter contrast, increase the amount of hot honey. It adds a delightful kick that balances the savory flavors beautifully.

• Don’t rush the baking: Allowing the feta to brown slightly adds depth and richness to the sauce. Patience here pays off with a more complex flavor profile.

• Save that pasta water: The starchy pasta water is your secret weapon! It helps create a silky sauce that clings perfectly to your pasta, making every forkful irresistible.

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

Presentation can elevate any dish from good to fantastic! Here are some creative ideas to serve this delightful pasta.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or additional sage leaves adds color and freshness.
• Toasted Nuts: Adding toasted pine nuts or walnuts brings a nice crunch and earthy flavor that complements the creamy sauce.
• Grated Cheese: For an extra layer of indulgence, consider grating some dairy-free Parmesan over the top just before serving.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your plate.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These crispy sprouts add a delightful bitterness that pairs well with the sweetness of butternut squash.
• Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli offers a vibrant green side that balances nicely with the hearty pasta.

Enjoy serving this comforting meal; it’s sure to impress family and friends alike!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic is not only delicious, but it also makes for fantastic meal prep! You can easily whip up a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• The pasta will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing the container to prevent condensation.

Freezing

• Allow the pasta to cool before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• For best results, portion out servings so you can easily thaw only what you need.

Reheating

• To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to keep it creamy.
• Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe!

Can I make Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dish ahead of time. Simply follow all the cooking instructions, then store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready to enjoy, just pop it in the oven!

What can I substitute for feta cheese in Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic?

If you need a substitute for feta cheese, try using crumbled vegan feta or ricotta-style cheese made from cashews or tofu. These options will still give you a creamy texture!

How long does Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this dish lasts up to three days in the fridge.

Can I use other vegetables instead of butternut squash?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or even sweet potatoes — all will complement the ingredients beautifully.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this warm and comforting Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic as much as I do! It’s perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or meal prep for busy days. The combination of flavors is simply delightful, and I can’t wait for you to experience how easy it is to whip up. Enjoy every bite!