Name: Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 5 cups cubed butternut squash; 1/2 cup olive oil; 1 block (8 oz) feta cheese; 1 lb pasta (rotini, orzo, or ditalini); 10 leaves fresh sage, minced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Hot honey (optional)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy and comforting dish to warm your heart this Fall, you’ve come to the right place! This Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic has quickly become a beloved staple in my home. It’s the perfect combination of creamy, savory, and just a hint of sweetness from the squash. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up on those busy weeknights or serve at family gatherings.

Imagine coming home after a long day and having this deliciousness ready in under an hour. The aroma of roasted butternut squash mingling with garlic and sage will fill your kitchen, making everyone feel at home. Trust me, once you try this dish, it will be on your menu rotation all season long!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this meal ready in no time!
Family-friendly: The creamy feta and sweet butternut squash make it a hit with both kids and adults.
Comforting flavors: This dish is rich and satisfying, perfect for chilly evenings.
Great for leftovers: Make extra for easy lunches during the week—just reheat and enjoy!
Simple ingredients: You probably have most of these wholesome ingredients already in your pantry.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! This recipe doesn’t require anything fancy—just fresh produce and some pantry staples that come together beautifully.

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 customize it based on what you have on hand or your taste preferences. Here are some fun ideas:

Add greens: Toss in some spinach or kale during the last few minutes of roasting for added nutrition.
Change the cheese: If feta isn’t your thing, try goat cheese or a dairy-free alternative for a different flavor profile.
Switch up the pasta: Use whole grain or gluten-free pasta to suit your dietary needs.
Spice it up: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper if you like some heat!

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

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F. This ensures that when we pop our baking dish inside, everything roasts perfectly. A hot oven will caramelize the butternut squash beautifully.

Step 2: Roast the Butternut Squash

In a large bowl, toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, kosher salt, and cracked black pepper. Spread them out in a baking dish with an 8 oz block of feta right in the center. Drizzle a little olive oil over the feta and sprinkle with red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous. Bake everything for about 30 minutes until the squash is tender.

Step 3: Brighten Up Those Flavors

After 30 minutes, take the baking dish out carefully (it’s hot!). Gently shift around the squash without disturbing the feta to ensure even roasting. Now crank up that oven to 450°F for another 5-10 minutes until the feta turns golden brown—that’s where all that flavor comes from!

Step 4: Cook Your Pasta

While our delicious ingredients are roasting away in the oven, bring a pot of salted water to boil. Cook your pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Remember to save about two cups of pasta water before draining—it’s liquid gold for our sauce!

Step 5: Mix It All Together

Once your feta is browned and fragrant from all those lovely spices, remove it from the oven. Stir in minced garlic, fresh sage leaves, and honey into that cheesy goodness right away—it’s crucial because heat helps release their flavors! Then add in your drained pasta along with one cup of reserved pasta water. Toss everything together until well combined.

Step 6: Adjust Consistency & Season

If you find that your pasta looks dry, don’t worry! Just add more reserved pasta water little by little until you reach that creamy texture everyone loves. Taste everything at this stage; add more salt, pepper, or hot honey if needed to get those flavors just right.

And there you go! Serve this Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic while it’s warm—trust me; everyone will be asking for seconds!

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

This delightful dish is not only easy to prepare but also full of flavor, making it a perfect weeknight meal. Here are some tips to ensure your pasta turns out just right!

Choose the right pasta: Opt for pasta shapes that hold sauce well, like rotini or ditalini. These shapes trap the creamy sauce, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
Don’t skip the salt: Seasoning your squash and pasta water properly enhances the flavors of the dish. A well-salted dish brings out the natural sweetness of the butternut squash and complements the feta beautifully.
Adjust the heat: If you prefer a little more spice, feel free to increase the amount of red pepper flakes or hot honey according to your taste. This customization allows you to make the dish as mild or spicy as you like!
Experiment with herbs: While sage adds a wonderful earthy flavor, consider mixing in other herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different twist. Fresh herbs can really elevate the dish’s aroma and overall taste.
Save that pasta water: The starchy pasta water is key in creating a silky sauce. Always reserve some before draining, as it can help bind all ingredients together beautifully.

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

Presenting your Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta in an appealing way can make it even more enjoyable. Here are some ideas on how to plate this flavorful dish!

Garnishes

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Although we’re avoiding pork products, a sprinkle of dairy-free Parmesan can add a nice touch of creaminess and enhance flavors.
Chopped fresh parsley: A handful of chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, balancing out the rich flavors of the dish.

Side Dishes

Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a simple vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The nutty flavor of roasted Brussels sprouts pairs wonderfully with butternut squash and adds another layer of texture to your meal.
Garlic Bread: Homemade garlic bread is always a hit! Serve warm slices alongside for perfect dipping into that creamy sauce.
Steamed Broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli adds both nutrients and color to your plate while complementing the flavors in your pasta.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll create an inviting dining experience that’s sure to impress family and friends alike! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic is perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week, saving time on busy nights.

Storing Leftovers

Allow the pasta to cool completely before storing.
Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container.
Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

Let the pasta cool down before placing it in freezer-safe containers.
Store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
For best results, separate into individual portions.

Reheating

Thaw frozen pasta overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to prevent sticking.
Stir occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave, checking every minute until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe.

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of feta in Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic?

Yes! If you’re looking for an alternative, try using goat cheese or even a vegan cheese option that melts well. Just keep in mind that it will slightly change the flavor profile.

How long does it take to make Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic?

The entire process takes about 50 minutes—10 minutes for prep and 40 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and easy dinner option!

Can I substitute other vegetables in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in your favorite seasonal veggies such as spinach, kale, or zucchini for added nutrients and flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This dish stores well and can be made ahead of time, making it ideal for meal prepping during busy weeks.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic as much as I do! It’s a comforting dish that’s not only delicious but also brings warmth to any table. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a meal prep lifesaver, I’m sure you’ll find it becomes a staple in your kitchen. Happy cooking!

Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews

Author: Autumn
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Category: Main
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian

Print Recipe

Description

Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic is the ultimate comfort dish for those chilly fall evenings. This delightful recipe combines creamy feta cheese with sweet roasted butternut squash, infused with fragrant sage and garlic. It’s not only easy to prepare—taking just 10 minutes of prep time—but also a crowd-pleaser that appeals to both kids and adults alike. The rich flavors meld beautifully together, making this a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or cozy family gatherings, this pasta is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds.

Ingredients

Scale

5 cups cubed butternut squash
1/2 cup olive oil
1 block (8 oz) feta cheese
1 lb pasta (rotini, orzo, or ditalini)
10 leaves fresh sage, minced
3 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Hot honey (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F.
Toss cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place in a baking dish with the feta in the center. Drizzle with more olive oil if desired, then bake for about 30 minutes until tender.
After 30 minutes, stir the squash gently without disturbing the feta. Increase oven temperature to 450°F and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until feta is golden brown.
Cook pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about two cups of pasta water before draining.
Combine roasted ingredients with minced garlic, fresh sage, honey, drained pasta, and one cup of reserved pasta water. Toss well until everything is coated.