Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that warms the heart, you’ve come to the right place! This Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic is one of those recipes you’ll want to keep on repeat all fall. It combines the sweetness of roasted butternut squash with creamy feta cheese and fragrant sage, creating a delightful harmony of flavors. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table.

What makes this recipe extra special is its ease of preparation. You’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time, allowing you to spend more time enjoying it with loved ones.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in about 40 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: With its creamy texture and rich flavors, even picky eaters will love this pasta!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week—just reheat and savor!
• Seasonal Flair: The combination of butternut squash and sage captures the essence of fall in every bite.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust spices or add different veggies based on what you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll love how simple and wholesome the ingredients are for this dish. Most are pantry staples or easily found at your local grocery store!

For the Pasta

• 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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. You can easily tweak it to suit your taste or dietary preferences!

• Add Veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale for extra greens!
• Swap the Cheese: Try using goat cheese or a dairy-free alternative if preferred.
• Spice It Up: Add more red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
• Change the Herbs: Experiment with thyme or rosemary if you’re not a fan of sage.

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

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. This ensures that your butternut squash roasts perfectly—sweetening up while developing those lovely caramelized edges.

Step 2: Prepare the Butternut Squash and Feta

In a baking dish, toss your cubed butternut squash with olive oil, kosher salt, and cracked black pepper. Place the feta block right in the center before drizzling it with olive oil and sprinkling red pepper flakes on top. Bake for 30 minutes until everything is tender and fragrant.

Step 3: Check on Your Squash

After 30 minutes, carefully stir the butternut squash without disturbing the feta. Crank up the oven temperature to 450°F and bake for another 5-10 minutes until the feta turns golden brown—this step adds depth to its flavor!

Step 4: Cook Your Pasta

While your squash is finishing up, boil your pasta in salty water until al dente. Reserve about two cups of that pasta water; it’s liquid gold when it comes to making your sauce creamy!

Step 5: Combine Everything Together

Once baked, remove that delicious feta and squash from the oven. Stir in minced garlic, sage leaves, and honey immediately so they infuse their flavors into every bite. Next, add in your cooked pasta along with one cup of reserved pasta water—mix everything together until it’s beautifully combined.

Step 6: Adjust Seasoning and Serve

If it seems dry, don’t hesitate to add more reserved pasta water bit by bit until you achieve that creamy texture you crave! Season with additional salt, pepper, or hot honey as desired. Then take a moment to admire your creation before digging in!

With this recipe under your belt, you’ll be ready to impress friends and family alike while enjoying a taste of cozy fall evenings at home!

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

Creating this delicious dish is a breeze, but a few simple tips can elevate your experience even more!

• Choose the right pasta: Opt for shapes like rotini or ditalini that hold onto the sauce well. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor and creamy goodness.

• Keep an eye on the feta: Baking times can vary depending on your oven. Check the feta after 30 minutes to make sure it’s not over-browning, which could make it less creamy.

• Reserve pasta water wisely: Saving some pasta water is crucial for achieving that perfect creamy texture. The starchy water helps bind the sauce to the pasta beautifully.

• Experiment with herbs: While sage is a star in this dish, don’t hesitate to mix in other herbs like thyme or rosemary for added depth of flavor. Fresh herbs make a world of difference!

• Make it spicy (or not): If you love a kick, add more red pepper flakes or drizzle extra hot honey at the end. Adjusting spice levels allows you to customize this dish to your taste!

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

This vibrant pasta dish deserves a beautiful presentation that highlights its colorful ingredients and inviting aroma.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley or basil: Chopped fresh herbs add a burst of color and freshness, making the dish visually appealing while enhancing its flavors.
• Toasted pumpkin seeds: Sprinkle some toasted pumpkin seeds on top for added crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the dish perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta while adding freshness.
• Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread makes for a comforting side that’s perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your plate.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasting seasonal veggies like Brussels sprouts or carrots brings out their natural sweetness and pairs exquisitely with the baked feta and squash.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a nutritious component that contrasts nicely with the creamy pasta, plus it’s easy to prepare alongside your main dish.

Enjoy this delightful meal, knowing you’ve created something truly special for yourself and loved ones!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic is ideal for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious, homemade flavors throughout the week with minimal effort!

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To keep the pasta from drying out, add a splash of olive oil before sealing the container.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer the pasta into freezer-safe containers or bags, making sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• The pasta can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen pasta overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Heat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed for creaminess.
• You can also reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through.

FAQs

Have questions about this delightful dish? Here are some common queries!

Can I use different types of cheese in Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic?

Absolutely! While feta adds a unique flavor, you can substitute it with other cheeses like goat cheese or a dairy-free alternative if preferred. Just keep an eye on cooking time as it may vary.

How can I customize Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic?

Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or kale for extra nutrients, or incorporate proteins like chickpeas or cooked chicken for a heartier meal.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! Simply use plant-based feta cheese and substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan-friendly version.

What type of pasta works best for Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic?

Short pastas like rotini, orzo, or ditalini are perfect as they hold onto the creamy sauce well. However, feel free to experiment with your favorite shapes!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about this Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic as I am! It’s a cozy dish that warms both the heart and the stomach, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for busy nights. Enjoy creating this delightful recipe, and don’t forget to share your experience! Happy cooking!