Get ready to indulge in a comforting bowl of Roasted Butternut Squash Pasta with Parmesan Garlic Sauce that will elevate your dinner game to new heights! This Italian-inspired dish combines the sweetness of roasted butternut squash with a creamy, garlicky sauce that clings to every strand of pasta. Perfect for weeknight meals or special occasions, this recipe not only delights the palate but also fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas. With just 45 minutes of your time, you can create a dish that will impress your family and friends—are you ready to dive into this culinary adventure?
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta
- 1 medium butternut squash, diced
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the butternut squash by peeling, removing seeds, and cutting into 1-inch cubes. Toss the cubed squash with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper, ensuring even coating.
- Spread the seasoned squash cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the edges are golden brown and squash is tender.
- While squash roasts, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a large skillet, heat remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Pour heavy cream into the skillet, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 3-4 minutes. Gradually whisk in grated Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat. If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
- Gently fold in roasted butternut squash cubes, ensuring even distribution.
- Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh chopped basil before serving.
- Serve hot, with extra Parmesan cheese on the side if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: Opt for pasta shapes that hold sauce well, such as fettuccine or penne, to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
- Roast for Flavor: Don’t rush the roasting process! Allow the butternut squash to caramelize in the oven for that rich, sweet flavor that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Always reserve some pasta water before draining. This starchy liquid is a game-changer for adjusting the sauce's consistency without losing flavor.
- Mind the Garlic: When sautéing garlic, keep a close eye on it to avoid burning. Burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste to your sauce.
- Fresh Basil Garnish: For a burst of freshness, don’t skip the basil garnish. It adds a lovely color and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- Extra Parmesan: Serve with extra Parmesan cheese on the side for those who can’t get enough of that cheesy goodness!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 865kcal
Carbohydrates: 60g
Protein: 21g
Fat: 62g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 150mg
