Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic

If you’re looking for a heartwarming dish that embodies the cozy essence of fall, look no further! This Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic is a delightful recipe that combines sweet butternut squash and creamy feta into a comforting pasta dish. It’s one of those meals that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Not only is it simple to make, but it also brings together wholesome ingredients that everyone will love. The combination of flavors is truly irresistible, making it an ideal option for both everyday dinners and special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have dinner on the table in no time!
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the creamy feta paired with tender squash.
• Easy to customize: You can easily swap in different pasta shapes or add veggies based on what you have on hand.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch ahead of time for easy lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.
• Deliciously comforting: The blend of sage and garlic adds warmth and depth to this cozy dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. They come together beautifully to create a delicious meal the whole family will enjoy.

• 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 parts about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Swap the pasta shape: Use any pasta you have on hand, such as penne or fusilli, for different textures.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale during the last few minutes of baking for added nutrition.
• Change up the cheese: If feta isn’t your thing, try using goat cheese or even a dairy-free alternative!
• Boost the protein: For a heartier meal, add cooked chicken or chickpeas when mixing in the pasta.

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

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 400°F degrees. While it’s heating up, toss your cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. This step ensures that every bite of squash is perfectly seasoned!

Step 2: Bake the Feta and Squash

Place the seasoned butternut squash in a baking dish with the block of feta nestled right in the center. Drizzle some olive oil over the feta and sprinkle red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Bake this delicious combo for about 30 minutes until everything is tender.

Step 3: Finish Baking

After those first wonderful aromas fill your kitchen, take out your baking dish. Gently move around the butternut squash without disturbing the feta; we want that cheese to stay intact! Now crank up your oven to 450°F and bake for another 5-10 minutes until the feta turns golden brown.

Step 4: Cook Your Pasta

While your feta is reaching peak creaminess, boil your chosen pasta in salted water. Cooking it al dente is key here because it will soak up all those delicious flavors later on. Remember to save about two cups of pasta water before draining!

Step 5: Combine Everything

Once you’ve got that beautifully browned feta out of the oven, immediately stir in minced garlic, fresh sage leaves, and hot honey. This will infuse your dish with incredible flavor! Then add your cooked pasta along with one cup of reserved pasta water. Mix everything gently so each piece gets coated in that creamy goodness.

Step 6: Adjust Consistency

If it seems like your pasta could use more sauce, gradually add more reserved pasta water until you reach your desired creaminess. Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper—or maybe even a drizzle more of hot honey if you’re feeling adventurous!

And there you have it—a lovely Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic that’s perfect for any occasion! Enjoy every comforting bite!

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

Cooking should be fun and stress-free, so here are some handy tips to ensure your pasta dish turns out perfectly every time!

• Choose the right pasta: Opt for pasta shapes like rotini or ditalini that hold onto the creamy sauce well. Their curves and ridges capture every bit of flavor, making each bite delightful.

• Don’t skip the salt in the water: When boiling your pasta, make sure to season the water generously with salt. This step enhances the overall flavor of the dish, ensuring your pasta isn’t bland.

• Adjust the heat carefully: If you prefer a stronger flavor, feel free to increase the red pepper flakes or honey according to your taste preference. These ingredients can easily be adjusted to make the dish as spicy or sweet as you like!

• Reserve that pasta water: Always save some pasta cooking water before draining. It’s a fantastic way to adjust the sauce’s consistency and adds extra flavor that ties everything together.

• Experiment with herbs: While sage is a wonderful addition, don’t hesitate to explore other herbs like thyme or rosemary for a unique twist. Fresh herbs enhance the aroma and freshness of your dish.

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

Presentation can elevate your meal from ordinary to extraordinary! Here are some creative ideas on how to serve this delicious pasta dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: Chopped fresh parsley sprinkled on top adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Toasted pine nuts: A handful of toasted pine nuts provides a delightful crunch that complements the creaminess of the feta.
• Lemon zest: A light sprinkle of lemon zest brightens up flavors and adds an aromatic touch.

Side Dishes

• Mixed greens salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.
• Roasted Brussels sprouts: Seasoned with olive oil, salt, and pepper, these crispy sprouts add a savory element that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of butternut squash.
• Garlic bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce on your plate.
• Steamed green beans: Crisp-tender green beans tossed in olive oil and lemon juice provide a nice crunch while balancing the richness of your main dish.

With these tips and serving ideas, you’re all set to impress family and friends with your Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch ahead of time, making weeknight dinners easier and hassle-free.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will keep well for about 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Allow the pasta to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer individual portions into freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen pasta in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• To reheat, you can use the microwave or warm it on the stovetop, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to help restore creaminess.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe!

Can I make Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic without feta cheese?

Yes! You can substitute feta with a plant-based cheese alternative or simply omit it. The flavor will still be delicious with the roasted butternut squash and sage.

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

You can use various types of pasta like rotini, orzo, or ditalini. Choose your favorite shape that will hold onto the creamy sauce well!

How do I know when my butternut squash is done baking?

The squash should be tender when pierced with a fork and caramelized on the edges. If it looks too firm, bake for an additional few minutes until it’s soft.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic as much as I do! It’s a cozy dish that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen, combining delightful flavors that celebrate fall. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your herbs or add extra veggies. Happy cooking, and enjoy every comforting bite!

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