Indulge in the cozy flavors of fall with our delightful Baked Penne Butternut Squash Sage Sauce! This creamy, comforting dish combines the nutty sweetness of butternut squash with the aromatic notes of fresh sage, all enveloped in perfectly baked penne pasta. With just 15 minutes of prep time and a heavenly aroma that will fill your kitchen, this recipe is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visual treat. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply looking for a weeknight meal that feels special, this dish is sure to impress. Dive into our recipe and discover how to create a warm, satisfying dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 55 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups butternut squash, cubed
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your baked penne cooks evenly and develops a nice golden top.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the butternut squash. If you haven't done so already, peel and cube the butternut squash into small, bite-sized pieces. This will help it cook evenly.
- In a medium saucepan, add the cubed butternut squash and enough water to cover it. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the squash is tender when pierced with a fork.
- Drain the butternut squash and transfer it to a blender or food processor. Add the heavy cream, chopped fresh sage, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta with the butternut squash sauce. Stir until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top to create a deliciously cheesy crust.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together.
- After 20 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This will help the sauce thicken slightly and make it easier to serve.
- Serve warm, garnished with additional fresh sage or Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious Baked Penne with Butternut Squash Sage Sauce!
Tips
- Perfect Pasta: To achieve the ideal texture, cook the penne until it’s al dente. This will allow it to hold up during baking without becoming mushy.
- Squash Prep: When cubing the butternut squash, aim for uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. If you're short on time, consider using pre-cut squash available at many grocery stores.
- Creamy Sauce: For an extra creamy sauce, blend the butternut squash with the heavy cream until completely smooth. You can also add a pinch of nutmeg for a warm, aromatic twist.
- Cheesy Crust: Don’t skimp on the Parmesan! A generous layer on top will create a deliciously cheesy crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
- Baking Tips: Covering the dish with foil for the first part of baking helps to keep moisture in, allowing the flavors to meld. Remove it for the last 10-15 minutes to achieve that golden, bubbly finish.
- Serving Suggestions: Garnish with additional fresh sage or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan just before serving for a pop of color and flavor. Pair it with a simple green salad to balance the richness of the dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 480kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 17g
Cholesterol: 90mg
