If you’re looking for a cozy, heartwarming dish to brighten up your dinner table, look no further than this Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic. This recipe is a delightful combination of creamy feta, sweet butternut squash, and aromatic sage that comes together effortlessly. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting yet special enough to share at family gatherings or with friends.

I absolutely love how easy it is to prepare! With just a few simple ingredients and minimal fuss, you’ll have a dish that’s bursting with flavor and sure to impress. Trust me, once you try this dish, it will quickly become a staple in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just about 40 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
Flavorful and Satisfying: The blend of roasted butternut squash, creamy feta, and fragrant sage creates a deliciously rich flavor that warms the soul.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this comforting pasta dish—it’s an easy way to sneak in those veggies!
Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the squash and feta ahead of time, then simply toss everything together when you’re ready to eat.
Versatile: Feel free to adapt the recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The best part about this Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic is that it uses simple, wholesome ingredients you might already have 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 things I adore about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily tweak it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Here are some fun variations:

Add More Veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale for added nutrients and color.
Change Up the Cheese: If feta isn’t your favorite, try using goat cheese for a tangy twist.
Mix in Nuts: For added crunch, sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or walnuts on top before serving.
Switch the Herbs: If sage isn’t available, thyme or rosemary would also pair beautifully with the butternut squash.

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

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. This step sets the stage for roasting the butternut squash perfectly while allowing the feta cheese to soften and develop that lovely golden crust.

Step 2: Prepare the Butternut Squash

Toss the cubed butternut squash in a large bowl with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Make sure each piece is well-coated so they roast evenly. Spread the squash in a baking dish and place the block of feta right in the center. To enhance flavor, drizzle olive oil over the feta along with red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Bake everything together for about 30 minutes until tender.

Step 3: Brown the Feta

After those first 30 minutes are up, take out your baking dish. Gently stir around the butternut squash without touching the feta; we want it to stay intact! Increase the oven temperature to 450°F and return it to bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the feta has turned slightly brown. This step adds depth of flavor—you’ll love it!

Step 4: Cook Your Pasta

While that heavenly aroma fills your kitchen from roasting veggies and cheese, bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add your pasta of choice and cook until al dente. Don’t forget to save about two cups of pasta water before draining—this will help create a luscious sauce later!

Step 5: Combine Everything Together

Remove the baking dish from the oven once your feta is beautifully browned. Stir in minced garlic, fresh sage leaves, and honey immediately—this infuses everything with aromatic goodness. Then add in your cooked pasta along with one cup of reserved pasta water; mix thoroughly until every bite is coated in that creamy sauce.

Step 6: Adjust Consistency & Season

If you find that your pasta seems dry after mixing everything together, gradually add more reserved pasta water until you reach a smooth consistency. Taste it! Add extra salt, pepper, or hot honey if desired—it’s all about making this dish perfect for you!

And there you have it! A delightful Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic that’s sure to warm hearts at any table. Enjoy every bite!

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

Creating the perfect Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta is all about those little touches that enhance flavor and texture, so here are some tips to help you nail it!

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh butternut squash and sage will elevate your dish significantly. They’ll bring out vibrant flavors and a lovely aroma that dried herbs simply can’t match.
Don’t rush the baking: Allowing the feta to get slightly browned is key to achieving that creamy, rich texture. This extra step enhances the flavor profile, making every bite more enjoyable.
Adjust pasta water gradually: When adding reserved pasta water, do it little by little. This helps you achieve the desired creaminess without making the dish soupy.
Experiment with spice levels: If you’re a fan of heat, feel free to increase the amount of red pepper flakes or hot honey. Adjusting the spice level allows you to customize the dish to your taste preferences.
Make it ahead: This pasta dish can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge. Just reheat gently when you’re ready to enjoy it! It’s perfect for meal prep or a cozy dinner party.

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

Presentation is everything when it comes to a delightful meal! Here are some ideas on how to serve your delicious baked feta pasta.

Garnishes

Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of bright green parsley adds freshness and color, enhancing both visual appeal and flavor.
Toasted pine nuts: These add a lovely crunch and nutty flavor that complements the creamy feta beautifully.
Grated lemon zest: A touch of lemon zest brings brightness that cuts through the richness of the dish, making each bite refreshing.

Side Dishes

Simple Arugula Salad: Toss arugula with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper for a light salad that balances the richness of the pasta.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Seasoned with olive oil, salt, and pepper, these roasted sprouts offer a crispy contrast that’s both delicious and nutritious.
Garlic Bread: A crispy slice of garlic bread is always a hit! It’s perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce.
Steamed Green Beans: Bright green beans drizzled with olive oil add color and a slight crunch while complementing your main dish wonderfully.

With these tips and serving suggestions in mind, you’re all set to impress your family or guests with this comforting Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic is perfect for meal prep! You can make it in advance and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store it properly:

Storing Leftovers

Allow the pasta to cool completely before storing.
Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

Let the pasta cool down before freezing.
Place in a freezer-safe container or bag, leaving some space for expansion.
Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

For refrigerated pasta, simply heat in a microwave-safe dish until warmed through, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed.
For frozen pasta, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating or reheat directly from frozen on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently.

FAQs

If you have any questions about this delightful recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries:

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of feta for the Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic?

Absolutely! While feta gives a unique flavor, you can substitute with goat cheese or cream cheese. Just keep in mind that the taste will differ slightly.

How can I adjust the spice level in the Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic?

To modify the spice level, simply adjust the amount of red pepper flakes according to your preference. You can omit them entirely for a milder dish.

Can I substitute butternut squash with other vegetables?

Yes! You can try substituting butternut squash with sweet potatoes or carrots for a similar texture and sweetness.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! This pasta dish stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it ideal for meal prep. Just follow the storing guidelines above.

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Pasta shapes like rotini, orzo, or ditalini are great options because they hold onto the sauce beautifully. Feel free to use your favorite!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about this Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage and Garlic as I am! It’s a cozy dish that brings warmth and comfort during those brisk fall evenings. Enjoy making it, savoring every bite, and sharing it with loved ones. Your kitchen will smell heavenly, and I’m sure this recipe will become a cherished part of your dinner rotation. Happy cooking!