When the weather turns crisp and leaves start to fall, there’s nothing more comforting than a warm bowl of Creamy Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage. This cozy dish brings together roasted butternut squash cubes, oven-baked feta, and earthy sage for a velvety sauce that clings beautifully to pasta. It’s a simple yet elegant Fall Dinner that celebrates the season’s best flavors. In this article, we’ll explore the recipe’s story, key ingredients, step-by-step preparation, flavor pairings, cooking tips, and answers to your most common questions. It’s the ultimate Butternut Squash Pasta and Baked Feta Pasta combination you’ll crave all autumn.
A Family-Inspired Fall Favorite
This recipe for Creamy Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage was born on a cool October evening when the air outside smelled faintly of fireplaces and the grocery store was overflowing with fresh seasonal squash. I had a block of feta sitting in the fridge and a bundle of sage from the garden, so I decided to combine them into something simple yet heartwarming. As the butternut squash roasted alongside the feta, their aromas wrapped around the kitchen like a cozy blanket—herbaceous, sweet, and savory all at once.
When I pulled the dish from the oven, the feta had softened into creamy perfection, ready to mingle with the caramelized squash. Folding the mixture into hot pasta created a sauce that was rich yet bright, comfort food without fuss. From that moment, this Baked Feta Pasta variation became a family favorite every year when the first hint of fall rolled in. It soon turned into our go-to meal after apple picking or lazy Sunday walks—proof that cozy dinners don’t need complicated steps. Its comforting flavor and easy cooking process make this Sage Pasta Recipe an irresistible seasonal staple that perfectly embodies autumn’s warmth.
The magic of this dish lies in its texture and balance of flavors. The Butternut Squash Pasta brings natural sweetness that’s beautifully contrasted by the tangy saltiness of baked feta. As the squash and cheese melt together, they create a luscious, silky sauce that coats each piece of pasta in creamy comfort. The fresh sage adds a fragrant, woodsy note that elevates the simplicity of the recipe.
Print
Creamy Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This cozy fall pasta combines roasted butternut squash, oven-baked feta, and fresh sage in a creamy sauce that clings to penne or rigatoni. Perfect for busy autumn evenings, it’s easy to customize for dietary preferences.
Ingredients
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 400°F and grease a 9×13 baking dish with olive oil.
2. Arrange butternut squash cubes around a block of feta in the center of the dish.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, garlic, half the sage, and red pepper flakes if using. Toss squash gently.
4. Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes until squash is tender and feta is softened and lightly browned.
5. Meanwhile, cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, reserving 1 cup pasta water before draining.
6. Remove baking dish and mash feta and squash together to form a creamy mixture. Add reserved pasta water and olive oil to reach desired sauce consistency.
7. Add cooked pasta to the dish and toss until evenly coated, adding more pasta water if needed. Stir in lemon juice if desired.
8. Garnish with remaining sage, a drizzle of browned butter or olive oil, and Parmesan or nutritional yeast. Serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: main course
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: american
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 8
- Sodium: 800
- Fat: 20
- Saturated Fat: 8
- Unsaturated Fat: 10
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 50
- Fiber: 6
- Protein: 15
- Cholesterol: 25
Keywords: butternut squash pasta, baked feta pasta, fall dinner, sage pasta recipe, creamy pasta, roasted squash, cozy dinner
This Baked Feta Pasta is tailor-made for busy fall evenings—minimal prep, simple ingredients, and a one-pan bake that practically makes itself. Even better, it’s flexible enough to accommodate gluten-free pasta or dairy-free feta, making it accessible for nearly every table. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner with friends or just want a relaxing night in, this Butternut Squash Pasta delivers the rich, creamy satisfaction you crave without hours in the kitchen. It’s a Fall Dinner classic that marries ease and elegance—and once you taste it, it’ll earn a permanent spot in your seasonal rotation.
Ingredients, Tools & Preparation
Key Ingredients for the Creamy Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage
The ingredients for this Creamy Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage are simple, wholesome, and easy to find. Each item plays a key role in creating that velvety, savory-sweet sauce and aromatic finish that define this cozy Fall Dinner. Whether you use fresh or frozen squash, regular or vegan feta, or swap in your favorite pasta shape, this Baked Feta Pasta adapts beautifully to your taste and dietary preferences.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Butternut squash cubes | 4 cups | Fresh or frozen; peel and cube evenly for uniform roasting |
| Feta cheese block | 8 oz | Traditional or vegan |
| Olive oil | 3 tbsp | Extra virgin preferred |
| Fresh sage leaves | 6–8 | Roughly chopped; dried sage works too |
| Pasta | 12 oz | Penne, rigatoni, or any short pasta |
| Garlic cloves | 3, minced | Adjust to taste |
| Salt & pepper | To taste | Balance the sweetness of the squash |
| Red pepper flakes (optional) | ¼ tsp | For gentle heat |
| Lemon juice (optional) | 1 tbsp | Adds brightness to the sauce |
| Parmesan or nutritional yeast | 2 tbsp | Optional garnish for extra flavor |
Equipment Needed:
- Large baking dish (9×13 inches)
- Large pot for pasta
- Mixing spoon or spatula
- Colander
- Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the butternut squash around the feta block in a baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, garlic, and half the sage.
- Bake Until Golden: Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes until the squash is tender and the feta browned. For deeper color, broil for 1–2 minutes.
- Cook the Pasta: Boil pasta until al dente. Reserve one cup of pasta water.
- Create the Sauce: Mash the baked feta and squash in the dish, adding pasta water as needed for a creamy consistency.
- Toss Together: Combine pasta with the sauce until well coated. Add more water or lemon juice to adjust thickness and brightness.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle remaining sage, drizzle olive oil or browned butter, and top with Parmesan or nutritional yeast.
Cooking Tips for Success
- Cut squash evenly for consistent roasting.
- Use short pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni to collect the sauce.
- Add pasta water gradually to perfect the creamy texture.
- Browned butter with sage leaves adds depth and aroma.
- Use dairy-free feta and nutritional yeast for a vegan version.
By following these steps, you’ll create a Butternut Squash Pasta that’s restaurant-worthy yet homey. The beauty of this Baked Feta Pasta is its simplicity—minimal effort, maximum comfort, and irresistible roasted aromas filling your kitchen.
Flavor Pairings, Serving Tips & Storage Ideas
Perfect Pairings and Variations
One of the best things about Creamy Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage is how easily it pairs with other fall favorites. Its sweet-savory balance makes it incredibly versatile for a full Fall Dinner.
Serve this Butternut Squash Pasta with grilled chicken or roasted shrimp for added protein. Vegetarian sides like roasted Brussels sprouts or an arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette bring freshness that complements the creamy sauce. For an earthy twist, sauté mushrooms or toss in wilted spinach or kale.
To personalize, top with toasted nuts for crunch or finish with browned butter and crispy sage for a restaurant-style feel. The recipe also adapts for gluten-free or dairy-free diets—use gluten-free pasta or plant-based feta and still enjoy all its comforting flavors.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serve this Baked Feta Pasta fresh and warm for the best creamy texture. Garnish with Parmesan or nutritional yeast and extra sage leaves just before serving. For make-ahead convenience, you can roast the squash and feta ahead, refrigerate for up to two days, and reheat gently before mixing with freshly cooked pasta.
Leftovers store well in an airtight container for up to three days in the fridge. To reheat, warm gently with a splash of pasta water or milk to restore creaminess. Frozen portions keep for two months; thaw overnight and reheat slowly for best texture. Turn any leftovers into a baked-pasta casserole: top with breadcrumbs and cheese, then bake until golden for a whole new meal.
Whether saved for meal prep or shared at a dinner gathering, this Sage Pasta Recipe keeps its comforting, aromatic charm every time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I make this Butternut Squash Pasta ahead of time?
Yes. Roast the squash and bake the feta in advance, refrigerate for up to two days, then reheat the mixture with a splash of pasta water before tossing with cooked noodles.
2. What’s the best pasta shape for baked feta pasta?
Short, ridged pasta like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli works best. They hold the creamy sauce and bits of roasted squash perfectly.
3. How do I make it vegetarian or vegan?
This Sage Pasta Recipe is vegetarian already. For vegan, use plant-based feta or cashew cream and finish with nutritional yeast.
4. Can I substitute pumpkin for butternut squash?
Yes, roasted sugar-pie or kabocha pumpkin offers a similar sweetness and texture. Avoid canned puree for best results.
5. How long does baked feta pasta last in the fridge?
Stored airtight, it keeps up to three days. Reheat gently with a splash of water or milk to revive creaminess.
Why This Butternut Squash Pasta Belongs on Your Fall Table
Few dishes capture the heart of autumn like Creamy Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta with Sage. Warm, aromatic, and effortless, it’s ideal for weeknights or cozy weekend dinners. The roasted squash melds beautifully with tangy feta, and sage adds an earthy aroma that perfects the dish.
This comforting Fall Dinner brings together everything we love about the season—creamy, nourishing, and elegant. Whether for guests or a quiet night in, this Butternut Squash Pasta promises comfort in every bite. One forkful, and it’s sure to become a cherished autumn tradition at your table.
