Savory Butternut Squash and Sage Pasta: A 30-Minute Delight

When the leaves start to crunch underfoot and the air turns crisp, there’s just one thing I crave (besides my favorite fuzzy socks): Savory Butternut Squash and Sage Pasta. Creamy, comforting, and full of rich autumn flavor, this recipe feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Whether you’re cooking for picky kids, impressing a dinner guest, or simply feeding your soul after a long day—this pasta delivers.

And the best part? It’s as easy as it is delicious. Seriously, if you can roast veggies and boil pasta, you’re already halfway there.

Why You’ll Love This Savory Butternut Squash and Sage Pasta

This dish checks all the boxes:
✅ Quick enough for weeknights
✅ Fancy enough for guests
✅ Cozy enough for couch dinners in PJs

But here’s the real magic—it balances sweet, nutty butternut squash with the earthy, woodsy kick of fresh sage. Toss in a silky cream sauce, a hit of garlic, and a sprinkle of toasted walnuts for crunch, and you’ve got yourself an unforgettable fall meal.

Let’s be honest: This pasta tastes like something you’d order at a cozy café with string lights and warm bread on the side.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You probably have most of this already in your pantry or fridge:

• 12 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine are both dreamy)
• 2 cups butternut squash, diced into small cubes
• 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh sage, finely chopped (or ½ tsp dried)
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, but adds a fun kick)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ½ cup vegetable broth
• ½ cup heavy cream or coconut milk (yes, dairy-free folks—you’re welcome!)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan, plus more for serving
• ¼ cup toasted walnuts, roughly chopped
• Fresh sage leaves, for garnish

Let’s Cook: Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Roast the Butternut Squash

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Spread the diced squash on a baking sheet, drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 25–30 minutes, until tender and a little caramelized. Your kitchen will smell amazing—just try not to snack on the cubes before the pasta’s ready!

2. Boil the Pasta

While your squash roasts, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente, then drain, reserving 1 cup of that starchy pasta water for later magic.

3. Sauté the Good Stuff

In a large skillet, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until soft and translucent—about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic, chopped sage, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook another 1–2 minutes, just until it all smells like autumn in Tuscany.

4. Build That Sauce

Add the roasted squash to the skillet and pour in the vegetable broth. Use a fork or masher to gently mash some of the squash—it gives the sauce a rustic, creamy texture without needing a blender. Stir in the cream (or coconut milk) and Parmesan. If it gets too thick, splash in that reserved pasta water, a little at a time.

5. Toss and Finish

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the noodles are lovingly coated in the sauce. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper.

6. Garnish & Serve

Plate it up and top with toasted walnuts, a bit more Parmesan, and a few fresh sage leaves for that chef’s kiss finish.

Kitchen Tips for Pasta Perfection

• Don’t skip the squash roasting! That caramelization gives the dish depth and sweetness you just can’t get from steaming or boiling.
• Coconut milk works great if you’re keeping things dairy-free. It adds creaminess without overpowering the dish.
• Walnuts = texture MVP. Toast them in a dry pan for a few minutes until fragrant—your tastebuds will thank you.
• Fresh sage really makes a difference. If you can find it, grab it! (And pro tip: leftover sage is fabulous crisped up in butter and added to… well, everything.)

A Little Backstory…

This Savory Butternut Squash and Sage Pasta actually started out as a “clean-out-the-fridge” meal one chilly Tuesday. I had half a squash, some cream, and pasta that needed using up. I tossed in sage on a whim—and let me tell you, it turned into one of those accidental masterpieces.

Now, it’s my go-to every fall, especially when I want something that feels fancy but takes less than an hour. My kids love it. My neighbor asked for the recipe. And once, my friend said it reminded her of a dish she had in Florence. Not to brag… but okay, maybe a little.

FAQs About Savory Butternut Squash and Sage Pasta

Wrap-Up: A Fall Favorite You’ll Make on Repeat

There’s just something soul-soothing about Savory Butternut Squash and Sage Pasta. It’s that kind of meal that slows down the evening, fills your home with warm aromas, and brings everyone to the table with a smile.

So next time you’re craving comfort food that’s rich in flavor but light on effort—this is the recipe to reach for. Light a candle, pour a glass of wine (or cider!), and dig into your new fall favorite.

Hungry for more cozy chicken magic?

Join me over at Chicken Magic Recipes where we turn simple ingredients into unforgettable meals. 🍂✨

More Cozy Comforts You’ll Love

If this Savory Butternut Squash and Sage Pasta has you swooning for more fall-inspired comfort food, you’re in luck. Here are a few more reader-favorite recipes from the Chicken Magic kitchen that pair perfectly with cool evenings, hungry bellies, and maybe even a glass of wine:

• Looking for another creamy, soul-warming pasta? You’ll love the rich layers of flavor in this Creamy Tuscan Ravioli Soup. It’s basically autumn in a bowl.
• If you’re craving a satisfying vegetarian option with a bit of a kick, don’t miss these Sweet Potato, Corn, and Black Bean Enchiladas. Bold, hearty, and totally meatless—what’s not to love?
• Want to bring some magic to your weeknight dinner rotation? Add this Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken to your lineup. It’s tangy, sweet, and ridiculously simple to throw together.
• For a cozy dish that feels like Sunday dinner without the fuss, try this Angel Chicken Casserole. Creamy, comforting, and family-approved.

These recipes were made with love—and just like our pasta above, they’re easy enough for busy weeknights but delicious enough to serve when company calls. Happy exploring, and don’t forget to bookmark your favorites!

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