Butternut Squash Pasta Sauce

A creamy Butternut Squash Pasta Sauce is the perfect way to elevate your pasta dishes. This sauce is not only rich in flavor but also packed with nutrients. Ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or even a cozy night in, it offers a deliciously healthy alternative to traditional creamy sauces. Made with wholesome ingredients, this recipe showcases the natural sweetness of butternut squash and fresh tomatoes, making it a standout option for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious sauce in no time.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and minerals from butternut squash and tomatoes, it’s both tasty and good for you.
• Versatile Use: Perfect as a pasta sauce, but also great as a dip for veggies or spread on sandwiches.
• Vegan-Friendly: This creamy sauce is plant-based, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.
• Great for Meal Prep: Store leftovers easily for quick meals throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to make this Butternut Squash Pasta Sauce.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Blender
• Parchment paper
• Pot for boiling pasta

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for roasting vegetables, ensuring they cook properly.
• Blender: Essential for achieving that creamy texture by pureeing the roasted ingredients smoothly.

Ingredients

A creamy vegan butternut squash pasta sauce made with simple healthy ingredients.

For the Sauce

• 16 oz bag of frozen diced butternut squash
• 1.5 cups fresh chopped tomatoes
• 1/2 yellow onion
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme

For the Pasta

• 1 lb pasta
• 1/3 cup pasta water reserved from cooked pasta

How to Make Butternut Squash Pasta Sauce

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 450F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 2: Prepare Your Vegetables

Place the frozen cubed butternut squash, chopped tomatoes, and sliced onion on the lined baking sheet.
– Drizzle olive oil over the vegetables.
– Season with salt, black pepper, and dried thyme.
– Mix well to ensure all vegetables are coated evenly.

Step 3: Roast the Vegetables

Bake at 450F for about 20 minutes until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

While the veggies are roasting, bring water to a boil in a pot. Cook your pasta according to package instructions.
– Before draining, reserve 1/3 cup of the pasta water.

Step 5: Blend the Sauce

Carefully transfer the hot roasted vegetables into a blender.
– Add in the reserved pasta water.
– Blend until you have a smooth sauce.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Pour your creamy butternut squash sauce over the cooked pasta. Toss everything together until well coated.
Serve immediately with parmesan cheese or plant-based parmesan for added flavor. Enjoy your delicious meal!

How to Serve Butternut Squash Pasta Sauce

This creamy vegan butternut squash pasta sauce is delightful on its own, but it can be enhanced with various serving options. Here are some creative ideas to elevate your dish and impress your guests.

With Fresh Herbs

• Basil or Parsley: Chopped fresh basil or parsley adds a burst of color and freshness.
• Oregano: A sprinkle of dried oregano on top brings out the savory notes in the sauce.

Topped with Cheese Alternatives

• Plant-Based Parmesan: Grate plant-based parmesan for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
• Nutritional Yeast: This adds a cheesy, nutty taste while boosting nutrition.

Add Crunch with Nuts or Seeds

• Toasted Pine Nuts: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts for a rich texture and nutty flavor.
• Pumpkin Seeds: Add roasted pumpkin seeds for a crunchy topping that complements the sauce.

Serve with Garlic Bread

• Homemade Garlic Bread: Pair the pasta with warm garlic bread for a comforting meal.
• Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks brushed with olive oil and garlic make a great side.

How to Perfect Butternut Squash Pasta Sauce

Achieving the perfect butternut squash pasta sauce is simple with a few tips. These suggestions will help enhance its flavor and texture.

• Roast the Vegetables Thoroughly: Ensure you roast the butternut squash, tomatoes, and onion until caramelized for deeper flavors.
• Blend Until Smooth: Blend the sauce until completely smooth to create a creamy texture that clings beautifully to pasta.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and herbs as needed before serving for balanced flavors.
• Use High-Quality Olive Oil: A good quality olive oil enhances the overall richness of the sauce, making it more delicious.

Best Side Dishes for Butternut Squash Pasta Sauce

Pairing your butternut squash pasta sauce with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

1. Garlic Roasted Broccoli: Crisp-tender broccoli seasoned with garlic makes a nutritious accompaniment.
2. Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.
3. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds elegance and pairs well with the creamy sauce.
4. Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa mixed with vegetables offers added protein and fiber for a hearty side.
5. Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts provide a delicious contrast in flavor and texture.
6. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with grains or veggies complement the dish beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls when making Butternut Squash Pasta Sauce that you should steer clear of.

• Overcooking the Vegetables: Overbaked veggies can lose their flavor and texture. Keep an eye on the timer and check for doneness at the 15-minute mark.
• Skipping the Reserve Pasta Water: This water is crucial for creating a creamy sauce. Always remember to set aside some before draining your pasta.
• Not Blending Long Enough: A smooth sauce is key to this recipe. Blend until completely smooth; any chunks can disrupt the creamy texture.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Letting your vegetables come to room temperature before baking helps them cook evenly and enhances their flavors.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Taste your sauce before serving! Adjust salt and pepper as needed to elevate the overall flavor profile.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the sauce to cool before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Butternut Squash Pasta Sauce

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with date and contents for easy identification later.

Reheating Butternut Squash Pasta Sauce

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, place sauce in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place sauce in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second increments until hot, stirring between each interval.
• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Butternut Squash Pasta Sauce, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries.

Can I use fresh butternut squash instead of frozen?

Yes, you can! Just peel and dice fresh butternut squash into similar-sized pieces as the frozen ones. Roast them until tender.

How do I make Butternut Squash Pasta Sauce creamier?

To enhance creaminess, consider blending in some cashew cream or coconut milk after baking the vegetables.

What pasta pairs well with Butternut Squash Pasta Sauce?

Any pasta works well! However, whole wheat or gluten-free options provide additional health benefits without compromising flavor.

Can I add protein to my dish?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken or sautéed mushrooms are great options that complement the sauce beautifully.

Final Thoughts

Butternut Squash Pasta Sauce is a deliciously creamy option that brings warmth and comfort to any dinner table. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various herbs or proteins based on your preferences. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it’s sure to become a favorite!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Butternut Squash Pasta Sauce

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Elevate your pasta dishes with this creamy Butternut Squash Pasta Sauce that is both nutritious and delicious. The natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash combined with fresh tomatoes creates a comforting sauce perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or a cozy night in. This vegan-friendly recipe is not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough to serve as a dip or sandwich spread. With wholesome ingredients and a creamy texture, it’s an excellent alternative to traditional heavy sauces, making it a hit for everyone at the table.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 16 oz frozen diced butternut squash
• 1.5 cups fresh chopped tomatoes
• 1/2 yellow onion
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1 lb pasta
• 1/3 cup reserved pasta water

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 450°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Spread frozen butternut squash, chopped tomatoes, and sliced onion on the baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and thyme; toss to coat.
3. Roast for about 20 minutes until vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.
4. While roasting, cook pasta according to package instructions and reserve 1/3 cup of pasta water before draining.
5. Transfer roasted vegetables to a blender, add reserved pasta water, and blend until smooth.
6. Toss the creamy sauce with cooked pasta and serve warm.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 200
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 0mg