Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic

If you’re looking for a delicious and comforting dish to warm your heart this fall, then you’ve come to the right place! This Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic is a delightful blend of flavors that will have you coming back for seconds. The creamy feta, sweet butternut squash, and aromatic sage create a cozy meal perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Plus, it’s so easy to make that you’ll want to add it to your regular rotation!

What I love about this recipe is how simple it is. You can throw everything together in one baking dish and let the oven do the work while you enjoy a glass of your favorite drink or catch up with loved ones. Trust me, once you try it, this dish will become a fall staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this dish ready in no time.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy feta combined with sweet butternut squash.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch on Sunday, and enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week!
• Endless flavor: The combination of sage and garlic adds warmth and depth to every bite.
• Comfort food at its best: This pasta is rich, satisfying, and sure to bring smiles around the dinner table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make this delightful dish. You probably already have most of them in your pantry! Here’s what you’ll need:

• 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 how flexible it can be. Feel free to get creative based on what you have on hand or what flavors you enjoy most! Here are some fun ideas:

• Add greens: Toss in some spinach or kale during the last few minutes of baking for added nutrition.
• Change up the pasta: Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a different twist.
• Experiment with herbs: If you don’t have sage on hand, try using thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
• Make it spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or even some diced jalapeños if you like a kick!

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

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that everything cooks evenly from the start.

Step 2: Prepare the Butternut Squash

In a large bowl, toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, two hefty pinches of kosher salt, and fresh cracked black pepper. Place the seasoned squash into a baking dish and nestle the block of feta right in the center. Drizzle olive oil over the feta and sprinkle with red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Pop it into the oven for about 30 minutes. This roasting step brings out all those lovely flavors!

Step 3: Brown the Feta

Once those 30 minutes are up, take your baking dish out of the oven carefully. Shift around the butternut squash slightly without disturbing the feta—this prevents any burning at the bottom. Now crank up your oven temperature to 450°F (230°C) and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the feta turns golden brown. This step adds that beautiful color and caramelized flavor we all crave.

Step 4: Cook Your Pasta

While your veggies are roasting away, bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add in your chosen pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Once it’s done, strain it but save about two cups of that pasta water—trust me; you’ll need it later!

Step 5: Bring It All Together

When your feta has reached that perfect golden state, remove it from the oven. Immediately stir in minced garlic, minced sage leaves, and hot honey into that cheesy goodness! Add your cooked pasta along with one cup of reserved pasta water. Toss everything together until well combined; this is where magic happens!

Step 6: Adjust Consistency

If your pasta seems dry after mixing everything together, don’t worry! Just add more reserved pasta water little by little until you achieve that creamy texture everyone loves. Finally, taste your creation and season with additional salt and pepper as needed—or splash on more hot honey if you’re feeling adventurous!

Now you’re ready to serve this delicious Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic! Enjoy every comforting bite!

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

Cooking should be a joy, and with these tips, you’ll ensure your pasta dish turns out perfectly every time!

• Choose the Right Pasta: Opt for pasta shapes that hold sauce well, like rotini or ditalini. Their curves and crevices catch every bit of the creamy sauce, making each bite delightful.

• Don’t Rush the Baking: Allow the feta to brown slightly before mixing it in. This step not only enhances the flavor but also creates a richer, creamier texture that blends beautifully with the squash.

• Taste as You Go: Seasoning is key! As you mix in the reserved pasta water, taste your dish to adjust salt and heat levels. This ensures your dish is tailored to your liking.

• Experiment with Herbs: While sage is fantastic, feel free to mix in other herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile. Fresh herbs can elevate the dish’s aroma and taste.

• Save Leftovers Smartly: Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of olive oil or reserved pasta water for a quick meal later in the week.

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

Serving this dish can be as fun as making it! With just a few thoughtful touches, you can elevate your dining experience.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some extra minced sage or parsley on top just before serving for a fresh burst of flavor.
• Toasted Nuts: Add a handful of toasted pine nuts or walnuts for crunch and richness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.
• Grated Lemon Zest: A light sprinkle of lemon zest adds brightness to each bite, balancing out the richness of feta.

Side Dishes

• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette provides freshness that complements the warm pasta dish.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in olive oil and garlic, roasted Brussels sprouts make for a hearty side that pairs wonderfully with the flavors of butternut squash.
• Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty bread brushed with garlic-infused olive oil is perfect for soaking up any remaining sauce from your plate.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds vibrant color and nutrients to your meal while its mild flavor won’t overpower the main dish.

Enjoy crafting this comforting meal and sharing it with loved ones – it’s bound to become a favorite!

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 easily make a big batch in advance, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pasta to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer the leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate.
• The dish can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the pasta cool down and divide it into portions.
• Place the portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The frozen pasta will keep well for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen pasta overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if necessary to loosen the sauce.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe:

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

Absolutely! While feta adds a distinct flavor, you can substitute it with goat cheese or a creamy plant-based cheese for a dairy-free option. Just keep in mind that this may alter the flavor profile slightly.

What can I serve alongside Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables. You could also serve it with garlic bread for an extra touch!

How do I make sure my butternut squash is perfectly cooked?

To ensure your butternut squash cooks evenly, cut it into uniform pieces. Use a sharp knife to create even cubes, which helps them roast uniformly during baking.

Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?

Definitely! Feel free to mix in veggies like spinach, kale, or even bell peppers. They’ll add extra nutrition and color to your dish!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic brings warmth and comfort to your dinner table! It’s one of those recipes that combines rich flavors with wholesome ingredients, making it perfect for cozy fall evenings. Enjoy creating this delightful dish, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences or variations! Happy cooking!