Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic

This Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic is a delightful meal perfect for any occasion. The creamy feta adds richness while the butternut squash brings warmth, making it an ideal dish for cozy fall dinners. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in about 50 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of baked feta, roasted butternut squash, and aromatic sage creates a winning flavor profile.
• Versatile Ingredients: Swap out pasta types or use different herbs to customize the recipe based on what you have on hand.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its creamy sauce and comforting flavors, this dish is sure to impress family and friends alike.
• Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with veggies and wholesome ingredients, it’s a delicious way to enjoy comfort food that feels good.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can simplify your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Mixing bowl
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Dish: A good baking dish ensures even cooking of the butternut squash and feta, resulting in perfect texture.
• Pot for Boiling Pasta: A sturdy pot allows you to cook pasta evenly without sticking.
• Knife and Cutting Board: Sharp knives make chopping ingredients easy, while a cutting board provides a safe surface.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to prepare this flavorful meal:

For the Butternut Squash Mixture

• 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)

For the Pasta

• 1 8 oz block Feta Cheese
• 1 lb Pasta (such as rotini, orzo, or ditalini)

For Flavoring

• 10 leaves Fresh Sage (minced)
• 3 cloves Garlic (finely minced)
• 1 tbsp Hot Honey (regular honey is fine too)
• Fresh Cracked Black Pepper

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

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F degrees. This step ensures that your butternut squash cooks evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Butternut Squash Mixture

• Toss the butternut squash with olive oil, kosher salt, and cracked black pepper in a mixing bowl.
• Place the seasoned squash into a baking dish.
• Add the block of feta cheese in the center.
• Drizzle extra olive oil over the feta, sprinkle red pepper flakes if using, and add more cracked black pepper.
• Bake in the oven for 30 minutes.

Step 3: Roast Until Golden

• After 30 minutes, carefully check that the bottom of the squash isn’t burnt by gently moving it aside without touching the feta.
• Increase oven temperature to 450°F and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes until the feta becomes slightly browned.

Step 4: Cook Your Pasta

• Bring a pot of salted water to boil.
• Add your chosen pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions.
• Reserve about 2 cups of pasta water before draining.

Step 5: Combine Everything Together

• Remove the baking dish from the oven once your feta is browned.
• Stir in minced garlic, minced sage leaves, and hot honey immediately.
• Add cooked pasta along with one cup of reserved pasta water. Mix well until everything is combined.

Step 6: Adjust Consistency & Seasoning

If your pasta seems dry, gradually add more reserved pasta water until you achieve a creamy sauce. Taste it before serving; adjust seasoning with salt or more pepper if needed.

Now you’re ready to serve this warm Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic! Enjoy this comforting dish that’s sure to satisfy everyone at your table.

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

Serving Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic is all about enhancing the flavors and presentation. Here are some creative ways to serve this delightful dish.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle fresh sage or parsley on top for a vibrant color and an extra layer of flavor.

Add a Drizzle of Olive Oil

• A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil just before serving adds richness and enhances the dish’s overall taste.

Accompany with Crusty Bread

• Serve with slices of warm, crusty bread for perfect dipping into the creamy sauce.

Pair with a Simple Salad

• A refreshing green salad complements the rich pasta, balancing the meal beautifully.

Top with Toasted Nuts

• Adding toasted pine nuts or walnuts gives a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the creamy elements.

Serve in Individual Bowls

• Plating the pasta in individual bowls makes for a more elegant presentation, perfect for dinner parties.

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

To elevate your Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta, consider these helpful tips for perfection.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh butternut squash and herbs to enhance flavor. Fresh ingredients always make a noticeable difference.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and honey to suit your palate. Everyone’s taste is different, so feel free to customize.

• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on both the feta and squash while baking. Overcooking can lead to burnt edges; you want them perfectly caramelized.

• Reserve Enough Pasta Water: Ensure you save enough pasta water. It’s key for creating a creamy sauce that clings well to the pasta.

• Experiment with Pasta Shapes: While rotini works great, try other shapes like penne or farfalle for variety in texture and absorption of flavors.

• Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when it’s warm and creamy.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic

Complement your delicious Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with these tasty side dishes that enhance your meal experience.

1. Garlic Bread – A classic choice, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your pasta.

2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts add a crunchy texture that pairs well with the creamy pasta.

3. Caesar Salad – The crisp romaine lettuce topped with tangy dressing provides a fresh contrast to the rich flavors of the pasta.

4. Steamed Green Beans – Lightly steamed green beans add color, crunch, and nutrients without overpowering the main dish.

5. Quinoa Salad – A cold quinoa salad mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and lemon dressing offers a refreshing taste alongside the warm pasta.

6. Stuffed Bell Peppers – Colorful bell peppers stuffed with grains or legumes provide a hearty addition to your meal while being visually appealing.

7. Zucchini Noodles – For a lighter option, zucchini noodles tossed in olive oil can complement the rich flavors without adding heaviness.

8. Caprese Skewers – These skewers made of mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and basil offer a fresh bite that balances out the richness of your pasta dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

• Not Preheating the Oven: Skipping this step can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to ensure consistent results.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking pasta too long can make it mushy. Aim for al dente, as it will continue to cook when mixed with the sauce.
• Ignoring Pasta Water: Discarding all the pasta water can lead to a dry dish. Save some water to adjust the sauce consistency.
• Underseasoning: Not adding enough salt and pepper can dull flavors. Don’t be shy; season well at multiple stages of cooking.
• Skipping Fresh Herbs: Fresh sage adds depth to your dish. Always include fresh herbs for maximum flavor impact.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the pasta to cool before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Consider portioning out for easy meal prep.

Reheating Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic

• Oven: Reheat at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent drying out.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot. This method is quick but may not heat evenly.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of reserved pasta water in a pan over medium heat. Stir until heated through for creamy results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries about making Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic.

Can I substitute feta cheese?

Yes! You can try using ricotta or a plant-based cheese for a different flavor profile while keeping it creamy.

What pasta works best?

Rotini, orzo, or ditalini are great choices. Feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer!

How do I make this dish vegan?

To make this Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic vegan, replace feta with plant-based cheese options and avoid honey.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Spinach or kale would be excellent additions for extra nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic is not only delightful but also versatile for various occasions. It’s an ideal choice for quick dinners or meal prepping throughout the week. Customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice level based on your preference!