Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that perfectly balances comfort and sophistication? Look no further than this Butternut Squash Skillet Pasta! In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a delightful Italian-inspired meal that’s not only packed with flavor but also showcases the vibrant colors of fall. Imagine creamy pasta intertwined with tender, caramelized butternut squash, all topped off with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. This recipe is so deliciously satisfying that it might just become your new go-to weeknight dinner! Dive into our easy-to-follow recipe and discover how to create this culinary masterpiece that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 2 cups butternut squash, cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sage
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by cubing the butternut squash into small, uniform 1/2-inch pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add cubed butternut squash and sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the squash begins to soften and develop light golden brown edges.
- Meanwhile, bring a separate large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- Sprinkle dried sage, salt, and pepper over the butternut squash, continuing to cook and stir to distribute seasonings evenly.
- When pasta is cooked, reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and add it directly to the skillet with the butternut squash.
- Toss the pasta and squash together, using reserved pasta water if needed to create a light sauce and help the ingredients combine.
- Remove skillet from heat and transfer pasta to serving dishes. Generously top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
- Serve immediately while hot, garnishing with additional sage or black pepper if desired.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, cube the butternut squash ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. This will speed up your cooking process when you’re ready to make the dish.
- Choose the Right Pasta: Opt for pasta shapes that hold sauce well, like fusilli or penne, to enhance the overall flavor and texture of the dish.
- Don’t Skip the Sage: Fresh or dried sage adds a wonderful aroma and depth to the dish. If using fresh sage, add it towards the end of cooking for a brighter flavor.
- Adjust the Sauce: If you prefer a creamier pasta, don’t hesitate to use more of the reserved pasta water to create a richer sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.
- Garnish Creatively: Elevate your presentation by garnishing with extra Parmesan, a drizzle of olive oil, or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for a hint of heat.
- Pair with Wine: For an extra touch, serve this dish with a glass of white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, to complement the flavors of the butternut squash and sage.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 291kcal
Carbohydrates: 47g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
