Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary gastronomic experience! This Roasted Butternut Squash Creamy Goat Cheese Pasta is not just a meal – it's a warm hug on a plate that combines the sweet, caramelized notes of roasted butternut squash with the tangy richness of goat cheese. Whether you're a pasta lover, a vegetable enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates soul-satisfying comfort food, this recipe promises to elevate your home cooking and impress even the most discerning palates.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta of choice
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 4 oz goat cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth
- Fresh sage for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare the butternut squash by peeling, removing seeds, and cutting into 1-inch uniform cubes. Ensure pieces are roughly the same size for even roasting.
- Toss cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl. Spread the seasoned squash evenly on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer to promote caramelization.
- Roast the butternut squash in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even browning and prevent burning.
- While squash is roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water before draining. This starchy water will help create a smooth sauce later.
- In a large skillet, combine roasted butternut squash, vegetable broth, and goat cheese. Mash and stir to create a creamy sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired consistency.
- Add drained pasta to the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat with the creamy squash and goat cheese sauce.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh chopped sage leaves. Serve immediately while hot.
Tips
- Cube Consistency is Key: When preparing the butternut squash, aim for uniform 1-inch cubes. This ensures even roasting and prevents some pieces from burning while others remain undercooked.
- Maximize Flavor Caramelization: Spread the squash in a single layer on the baking sheet and avoid overcrowding. This allows each piece to develop beautiful golden-brown edges that intensify the natural sweetness.
- Pasta Water Magic: Never discard all your pasta cooking water! The starchy liquid is a secret weapon for creating smooth, clingy sauces. Reserve about 1/2 cup to help emulsify your goat cheese sauce.
- Cheese Temperature Matters: Let the goat cheese sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before cooking. This helps it melt more smoothly into the sauce.
- Fresh Herb Finishing: Chopped fresh sage isn't just a garnish – it adds a fragrant, earthy note that complements the squash beautifully. Don't skip this final touch!
- Customize Your Pasta: While the recipe suggests a specific pasta, feel free to experiment with different shapes. Penne, rigatoni, or fusilli all work wonderfully with this creamy sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 543kcal
Carbohydrates: 74g
Protein: 19g
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 20mg
