Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that feels both indulgent and nourishing, Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta is your new go-to comfort food. Imagine twirls of rotini wrapped in a velvety, golden sauce with hints of roasted garlic, fragrant herbs, and a rich, creamy finish, all coming together in a bowl of pure autumnal bliss. This pasta feels decadent, yet is full of wholesome ingredients — it’s a favorite I come back to any time I crave something warming and vibrant. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy night in or to impress your friends at a dinner party, Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta is a showstopper with minimal fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these ingredients is a breeze, and each one leaves its mark on the final dish. From the subtle sweetness of roasted squash to the savory pop of fresh herbs, and the creaminess from cashews, these simple cupboard and market staples transform into magic when combined.

• Butternut squash: Roasted until tender, it brings natural sweetness and that gorgeous orange hue to the sauce.
• Sea salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that awaken and balance all the flavors in the pasta.
• Shallots: They caramelize beautifully, giving gentle depth without overwhelming the sauce.
• Garlic cloves: Roasted unpeeled, they turn buttery and mellow, infusing the sauce with delicious warmth.
• Water: Helps blend the sauce to the perfect silky consistency.
• Raw cashews: These work wonders for creaminess, blending seamlessly into a luscious puree without dairy.
• Extra-virgin olive oil: Richness and fruity flavor come from a generous drizzle, plus more for finishing.
• Nutritional yeast: Adds a subtle cheesy, umami hit — don’t skip it, even if you don’t eat plant-based regularly!
• Balsamic vinegar: A splash brightens the sauce, enhancing the natural sweetness of the squash.
• Fresh sage leaves: Earthy, woodsy, and utterly essential for autumnal flavor.
• Fresh thyme leaves: Thyme’s citrusy notes bring a welcome lift — add more for garnish if you like.
• Rotini pasta: Its twists trap the sauce perfectly, but any shape will work if that’s what you have.
• Sautéed broccoli (optional): Adds a fresh, hearty green crunch that makes the pasta feel complete.

How to Make Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta

Step 1: Roast the Veggies

Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy clean-up. Drizzle the butternut squash with olive oil, sprinkle generously with salt and black pepper, and lay it cut side down on the sheet. Wrap the shallots and garlic cloves in a little foil, add a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt, and tuck the bundle next to the squash. Bake for about 30 minutes, until the squash is meltingly tender and the shallots and garlic are soft and fragrant. Roasting brings out all the sweetness and depth, the perfect start to Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta.

Step 2: Blend the Sauce

Scoop exactly 1 cup of that golden-roasted squash into your blender. Toss in the roasted shallots, peel and add the garlic, then pour in the water, raw cashews, olive oil, nutritional yeast, balsamic vinegar, sage, thyme, about ¾ teaspoon salt, and some generous grinds of pepper. Blend until the sauce is utterly smooth and creamy — stop and scrape the sides if needed. This sauce should pour like heavy cream and look like liquid gold. Taste and tweak the salt if you want; this is Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta’s irresistible heart!

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Meanwhile, bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Drop in your rotini and cook just until al dente, following the package directions. Right before draining, scoop out one cup of the hot starchy pasta water — you’ll use this to emulsify your sauce. Drain the pasta well and return it to the pot, ready to soak up all that creamy deliciousness.

Step 4: Sauce and Finish

Pour the butternut squash sauce over the hot pasta, then start stirring, adding about ½ to 1 cup of the reserved pasta water as you go. The sauce magically thickens and clings to the noodles, turning everything creamy. Season with an extra pinch of salt (start with ¼ and see if you’d like more). For the finishing touch, shower the top with black pepper, a few thyme leaves, or even sautéed broccoli if you like a little veggie crunch. Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta is ready to serve!

How to Serve Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta

Garnishes

A good garnish elevates Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta from weeknight comfort food to a dish worthy of a special gathering. Sprinkle it with extra fresh thyme or chopped sage, or drizzle a bit more olive oil for shine and richness. For crunch, throw on toasted pumpkin seeds or pine nuts, or add vegan parmesan for even more cheesy flavor. Presentation matters — each bite feels special with just a touch of love on top.

Side Dishes

If you’re turning this into a full meal, serve it with garlicky sautéed broccoli (as suggested) or roasted Brussels sprouts for more veggies. Crusty bread is perfect for swiping up every drop of sauce. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts the richness and adds freshness, rounding out your Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta feast.

Creative Ways to Present

For extra flair, swirl each serving into shallow pasta bowls and nestle in a bunch of bright greens or microgreens. You can even fill roasted acorn squash halves with the pasta for a stunning centerpiece. Or, serve in a large, beautiful platter family-style, garnished generously, so everyone can help themselves and admire the color of the sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Stash any extra Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge. The sauce keeps things moist and flavorful for up to 3 days, and the flavors will deepen beautifully overnight. It’s the kind of leftover you’ll look forward to!

Freezing

For longer-term storage, you can freeze the sauce by itself (without pasta) for up to 2 months. Simply cool it completely, then pack it into a freezer-safe jar or bag, leaving a little room for expansion. When you’re ready to use it, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat and toss with freshly cooked pasta.

Reheating

To bring Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta back to life, warm it gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce. Microwave reheating works too, but stir often so it heats evenly. A quick drizzle of olive oil and some fresh herbs before serving makes it taste just-made.

FAQs

Can I make this Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta, such as brown rice, chickpea, or lentil rotini. The sauce itself is naturally gluten-free and just as delicious with any shape you prefer.

Do I have to use cashews in the sauce?

Cashews lend that signature creaminess and subtle flavor, but if you’re nut-free, try soaked sunflower seeds or silken tofu for a similar, smooth texture. The sauce will remain luscious and rich, making your Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta every bit as dreamy.

Can I use pre-cut or frozen butternut squash?

Yes, pre-cut or frozen squash works in a pinch! Just roast as directed until it’s soft and caramelized. You may need to adjust the roasting time slightly, but the sauce will turn out just as creamy and flavorful.

What protein can I add to this dish?

For a protein boost, toss in chickpeas, white beans, or pan-seared tofu. If you eat dairy or eggs, a poached egg or flakes of roasted chicken are lovely additions, making your Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta extra satisfying.

How can I make the sauce spicier or more robust?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for gentle heat, or roast a pinch of chili with the veggies. Smoked paprika or a touch of miso paste can also ramp up the depth and savoriness if you’re in the mood for bolder flavors.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been craving a pasta dish that’s as creamy and cozy as it is simple and plant-powered, you have to give Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta a try. With its sweet, earthy sauce and fragrant herbs, it’s the kind of meal that lingers in your memory. Gather your ingredients and bring a little golden sunshine to your dinner table tonight!

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