Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary experience! This mouthwatering Penne with Butternut Squash and Goat Cheese recipe is the perfect blend of creamy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors that will make your taste buds dance with delight. Whether you're a busy professional seeking a quick gourmet meal or a home cook looking to impress, this Italian-inspired dish promises to elevate your cooking game and provide a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups butternut squash, cubed
- 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sage, dried
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
- Peel the butternut squash and cut it into uniform 1-inch cubes. Aim for consistent sizing to ensure even roasting.
- Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, dried sage, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Ensure each piece is evenly coated with seasonings.
- Spread the seasoned squash cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the edges are golden brown and the squash is tender.
- While the squash roasts, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water before draining the penne in a colander. This starchy water will help create a creamy sauce later.
- Return the drained pasta to the pot. Add the roasted butternut squash and crumbled goat cheese. Gently toss to combine.
- If the mixture seems dry, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to create a creamy consistency. The goat cheese will melt and create a light sauce.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. The goat cheese adds saltiness, so season carefully.
- Serve immediately in warm bowls. For extra flavor, optionally garnish with fresh chopped sage or a drizzle of olive oil.
Tips
- Squash Cutting Technique: Ensure all butternut squash cubes are roughly the same size for even roasting. This guarantees a consistent texture and prevents some pieces from burning while others remain undercooked.
- Pasta Water Magic: Never discard all your pasta water! The starchy liquid is a secret weapon for creating a silky, smooth sauce that helps the goat cheese melt perfectly and coat each pasta piece.
- Roasting Secrets: Use parchment paper on your baking sheet for easy cleanup and to prevent the squash from sticking. A single layer ensures proper caramelization and crispy edges.
- Cheese Temperature Tip: Let the goat cheese sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before adding it to the pasta. This helps it melt more smoothly and creates a more luxurious sauce.
- Seasoning Wisdom: Add salt and pepper gradually. The goat cheese already brings saltiness, so taste as you go to avoid over-seasoning.
- Make-Ahead Hack: Roast the butternut squash in advance and store in the refrigerator. This can cut down your total cooking time when you're ready to prepare the full dish.
- Garnish Brilliance: A small sprinkle of fresh sage or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil just before serving can elevate the dish's visual appeal and add an extra layer of flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 381kcal
Carbohydrates: 48g
Protein: 13g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 20mg
