Butternut Squash Pasta Bake is the perfect comfort food for fall. This dish combines the creamy, slightly sweet flavor of roasted butternut squash with savory herbs and a gooey cheese topping, making it a satisfying vegetarian meal. The butternut squash is puréed into a luscious sauce that coats each piece of pasta, while a layer of melted cheese adds richness to every bite. This dish is great for weeknight dinners or as a make-ahead meal for gatherings. The combination of flavors and textures—soft squash, tender pasta, and crispy baked cheese—creates a cozy, irresistible meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work well)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk or cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roast the butternut squash: Toss the diced squash with olive oil, salt, pepper, thyme, and sage. Spread it evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until soft and slightly caramelized.
- Cook the pasta: While the squash is roasting, cook the pasta according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Make the sauce: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the roasted squash and vegetable broth, simmering for 2-3 minutes. Use an immersion blender (or transfer to a regular blender) to blend the mixture into a smooth sauce.
- Finish the sauce: Return the sauce to the skillet, stir in the milk or cream, nutmeg, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Let it simmer gently for 3-5 minutes until thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Assemble the bake: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the butternut squash sauce. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with mozzarella cheese, the remaining Parmesan, and breadcrumbs if using.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Enjoy your creamy, cheesy Butternut Squash Pasta Bake!
