Comforting Butternut Squash Pasta Recipe for Fall

Posted on November 13, 2025

The creamy, sweet aroma of butternut squash paired with the earthy fragrance of sage is like a warm hug on a crisp fall evening. This recipe is my go-to when I’m craving a bowl of comfort that’s effortlessly elegant and packed with autumn vibes. I first stumbled upon the magic of butternut squash pasta years ago when I was searching for a seasonal dish to impress my family at Thanksgiving. After a few tweaks and trials, this comforting butternut squash and sage pasta recipe became an instant favorite! It’s rich, cozy, and surprisingly simple to make. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just treating yourself to a quiet night in, this dish will have you savoring every bite.

What I love most about this recipe is how it’s a celebration of fall ingredients. The butternut squash brings a natural sweetness, while the sage adds depth and a subtle earthiness. And let’s not forget the creamy sauce that ties it all together—every forkful feels indulgent, yet it’s made with wholesome ingredients. So grab a cozy sweater, set the mood with some soft music, and let’s dive into making this irresistible autumn pasta. Trust me, after one bite, you’ll be adding this to your seasonal rotation every year!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for a reason to make this comforting butternut squash pasta recipe, let me give you a few:

Perfect fall flavors: It’s the ultimate cozy dish that highlights the sweetness of butternut squash and the aromatic punch of fresh sage.
Simple ingredients: You probably already have most of these staples in your kitchen, and the rest are easy to find.
Quick and easy: This recipe comes together in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute guests.
Healthier comfort food: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and a creamy sauce that doesn’t rely on heavy cream.
Customizable: Whether you’re vegetarian, gluten-free, or just a fan of bold flavors, this recipe easily adapts to your preferences.

This isn’t your average pasta recipe—it’s one of those dishes that feels like a hug in a bowl. The kind of meal you make on a chilly day when you want to wrap yourself in warmth and flavor. Plus, it’s so versatile that you can serve it for a casual dinner or a fancy gathering. Every bite is a little celebration of fall, and I promise it’ll leave you craving seconds!

What Ingredients You Will Need

This comforting butternut squash and sage pasta recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to create a rich, flavorful dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

Butternut squash: Peeled, seeded, and cubed. Fresh is best, but frozen works in a pinch.
Olive oil: For roasting the squash and sautéing the garlic and sage.
Fresh sage: A handful of leaves, chopped. (This herb is the star of the dish!)
Garlic: Minced or finely chopped—adds depth and flavor to the sauce.
Vegetable broth: Helps create a silky, smooth sauce.
Parmesan cheese: Grated, to add creaminess and a salty kick. Use a vegan option if preferred.
Pasta: Your favorite type—spaghetti, rigatoni, or even gluten-free pasta work beautifully.
Salt and pepper: To season everything to perfection.
Optional toppings: Crushed walnuts, red pepper flakes, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

This ingredient list is simple but mighty—each component plays a key role in making the dish shine. You can substitute roasted pumpkin for butternut squash or toss in spinach for added greens. Don’t forget to grab fresh sage. Trust me, it’s what takes this recipe from good to unforgettable.

Equipment Needed

You don’t need fancy gadgets to make this recipe, but here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Large baking sheet: Perfect for evenly roasting the butternut squash.
Blender or food processor: For blending the roasted butternut squash into a creamy sauce.
Large skillet: To sauté the garlic and sage and toss the pasta.
Pasta pot: For boiling your pasta—don’t forget to save some pasta water!
Sharp knife: For peeling and cubing the butternut squash.

If you don’t have a blender, you can use an immersion blender right in the skillet—it’s a lifesaver! And if you’re short on baking sheets, any oven-safe dish works for roasting. This recipe is pretty forgiving when it comes to equipment.

Preparation Method

Preheat your oven: Set it to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the butternut squash: Peel, seed, and cube the squash. Toss the cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and spread them out on a baking sheet.
Roast the squash: Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway. The squash should be golden and tender.
Cook the pasta: Boil your pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup (240 ml) of pasta water before draining.
Blend the squash: Add the roasted squash, garlic, and vegetable broth to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Sauté the sage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Add chopped sage and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Combine the sauce: Pour the squash mixture into the skillet. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
Toss the pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until it’s fully coated in the sauce.
Finish with cheese: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with optional toppings like crushed walnuts or red pepper flakes.

Pro tip: If your sauce seems too thick, keep adding small amounts of pasta water until it’s smooth and creamy. And don’t rush the roasting process—caramelized squash adds so much flavor!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

This comforting butternut squash pasta recipe is simple, but here are a few tips for perfection:

Roast the squash properly: Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Spread the cubes in a single layer for even cooking and caramelization.
Use fresh sage: Dried sage won’t pack the same punch, so splurge on fresh leaves if you can.
Save your pasta water: It’s liquid gold! The starchy water helps thin the sauce and makes it cling to the pasta.
Season as you go: Taste the sauce before adding it to the pasta, and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.
Don’t skip the Parmesan: It adds richness and ties the flavors together beautifully.

And if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a touch of nutmeg or cinnamon to the sauce. It complements the squash and adds a cozy fall vibe!

Variations & Adaptations

This recipe is super versatile! Here are a few ways to adapt it:

Make it vegan: Swap Parmesan for nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free pasta or try zucchini noodles for a lighter twist.
Seasonal swap: Replace butternut squash with roasted pumpkin or sweet potatoes.
Add protein: Toss in grilled chicken, crispy pancetta, or chickpeas for extra heartiness.
Boost the veggies: Stir in spinach, kale, or roasted mushrooms before serving.

Personally, I love adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat—it’s a game-changer!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This comforting butternut squash pasta is best served warm and fresh. Here’s how to enjoy and store it:

Serving: Serve immediately, topped with Parmesan, fresh sage leaves, and optional crushed walnuts. Pair it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
Freezing: The sauce freezes well; store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Pro tip: The flavors deepen as they sit, so leftovers taste even better the next day!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s why this recipe is as nourishing as it is delicious:

Calories: Approximately 400-450 per serving, depending on pasta type.
Fiber-rich: Butternut squash is loaded with fiber for digestive health.
Vitamins: Packed with Vitamin A, C, and potassium, supporting immunity and skin health.
Vegetarian-friendly: A perfect meatless meal for plant-based diets.

As someone who loves comfort food but also values balanced eating, this recipe ticks all the boxes!

Conclusion

So, there you have it—an irresistible comforting butternut squash pasta recipe that’s perfect for fall. Whether you’re hosting friends or savoring a solo dinner, this dish promises to be a crowd-pleaser. What makes it special is its balance of flavors: the natural sweetness of roasted squash, the earthy sage, and the creamy sauce that brings it all together. It’s a recipe to warm your soul and brighten your table.

I’d love to hear how you make this recipe your own! Leave a comment below if you try it, and don’t forget to share it with your fellow pasta lovers. Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite!

FAQs

Can I use frozen butternut squash?

Yes! Frozen squash works well and saves time. Just roast it directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What type of pasta pairs best with this sauce?

Short pasta like rigatoni or penne works great, but spaghetti and fettuccine are equally delicious!

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the sauce and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Cook the pasta fresh when ready to serve.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

Simply replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast or your favorite dairy-free cheese alternative.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes! The natural sweetness of butternut squash makes it a hit with kids. You can omit sage if they’re not fans of strong flavors.

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