Indulge in the rich flavors of Browned Butter Squash Pasta, featuring caramelized butternut squash and a nutty, browned butter sauce.

Introduction

Browned Butter Squash Pasta is a deliciously cozy dish that captures the essence of fall in every bite. This pasta combines sweet, caramelized butternut squash with a rich and nutty browned butter sauce, creating a perfect balance of savory and sweet. It’s a comforting, flavorful meal that’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough to serve at gatherings or family meals. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity—the browned butter adds depth and warmth, while the squash provides a tender, slightly sweet contrast. Topped with a sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh herbs, this pasta is a must-try for anyone who loves fall flavors. You can customize it by adding crispy pancetta, toasted nuts, or even a bit of garlic, but the base recipe is perfect just as it is. With minimal ingredients and easy preparation, this dish is bound to become a seasonal favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
• 12 oz pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or your choice)
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh sage leaves (or 1 tablespoon dried sage)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil, for roasting
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
• Fresh parsley or additional Parmesan for garnish

Directions

1. Roast the Squash: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash in olive oil, salt, and pepper, and spread evenly on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
2. Cook the Pasta: While the squash is roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.
3. Brown the Butter: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the fresh sage leaves and cook until the butter foams and turns golden brown, about 3-5 minutes. The sage will crisp up as the butter browns, infusing the sauce with its earthy flavor. Remove from heat and discard the sage leaves if desired.
4. Add the Squash and Pasta: Add the roasted butternut squash to the browned butter. Toss in the cooked pasta and mix well to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, to create a silky sauce.
5. Season and Finish: Stir in the ground nutmeg, cinnamon (if using), and Parmesan cheese. Add lemon juice for a touch of brightness, if desired. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve: Transfer the pasta to serving bowls and garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Serve immediately.

How to Prepare

Browned Butter Squash Pasta comes together with ease, making it an ideal dish for busy weeknights or when you want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. The key to this dish is roasting the butternut squash until it’s perfectly caramelized and tender, bringing out its natural sweetness. The browned butter sauce, infused with sage, provides a nutty depth of flavor that complements the sweetness of the squash beautifully. Tossing the pasta in this rich sauce, along with a sprinkle of Parmesan, results in a luscious, silky dish. To balance the richness, adding a squeeze of lemon juice brightens the flavors and makes the dish pop. This pasta is best served fresh and warm, though leftovers can be reheated and enjoyed just as much.

Preparation Time

• Active Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Servings

This recipe serves 4-6 people as a main course.

FAQs

Q1: Can I substitute another type of squash? Yes, you can use acorn squash or even pumpkin if you prefer. Just adjust the roasting time to ensure they’re tender and caramelized.

Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can roast the squash and brown the butter ahead of time. When ready to serve, simply reheat the components and toss them with freshly cooked pasta.

Q3: What pasta works best for this dish? Fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti work well because they hold the sauce beautifully. Short pasta like penne or rigatoni can also be used.

Q4: Can I add protein to this dish? Yes, grilled chicken, crispy pancetta, or even sautéed shrimp would make great additions to this dish if you’re looking for a heartier meal.

Q5: Can I use dried sage instead of fresh? Yes, dried sage can be used if fresh isn’t available. Use about 1 tablespoon of dried sage, but watch carefully when browning the butter, as dried herbs can burn quickly.

Conclusion

Browned Butter Squash Pasta is a warm, comforting dish that brings out the best flavors of fall. The combination of caramelized butternut squash and nutty browned butter makes this pasta irresistibly rich and flavorful. It’s a dish that feels luxurious but is incredibly easy to make, with just a few simple ingredients. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your fall meal rotation. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just treat yourself to something special, this pasta delivers the perfect blend of savory, sweet, and satisfying flavors. Pair it with a crisp salad and a glass of wine for an unforgettable meal.