Go Back
+ servings
A close-up of butternut squash pasta with crispy sage leaves and chopped herbs, served on a white plate.

Butternut Squash Pasta with Crispy Sage

A simple and flavorful pasta dish featuring roasted butternut squash, crispy sage, and a creamy sauce.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-inspired

Ingredients
  

For the Squash
  • 1 medium butternut squash peeled, seeded, and cubed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Pasta and Sauce
  • 12 ounces pasta such as fettuccine or penne
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 1/4 cup fresh sage leaves
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • salt to taste salt
  • black pepper to taste black pepper

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Large pot
  • Large skillet

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
  2. While the squash roasts, cook the pasta according to package directions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water before draining.
  3. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sage leaves and cook until they become crispy, about 1-2 minutes. Remove the sage leaves and set aside.
  4. Add the minced garlic to the same skillet and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
  5. Add the roasted butternut squash to the skillet with the garlic. Mash some of the squash with a fork to create a creamier sauce base.
  6. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated.
  7. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
  8. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with the crispy sage leaves.

Notes

You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat. For a vegan version, use a plant-based butter and cream, and omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!