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Half Baked Harvest Inspired Butternut Squash Pasta





Half Baked Harvest Inspired Butternut Squash Pasta

Description

This butternut squash pasta is a delightful and hearty dish inspired by the creative and rustic recipes from Half Baked Harvest. Combining roasted butternut squash, creamy ricotta, and a hint of sage, this pasta dish is perfect for a cozy dinner. The rich, sweet flavors of the squash blend perfectly with the savory notes of garlic and sage, creating a comforting and satisfying meal that is both delicious and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

  • 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed (about 4 cups)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 12 ounces of your favorite pasta (such as rigatoni or penne)
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

Step-by-Step Half Baked Harvest Inspired Butternut Squash Pasta Preparation

  1. Roast the Butternut Squash: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Spread the cubed butternut squash on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat the squash evenly. Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is tender and lightly caramelized. Stir halfway through to ensure even roasting.
  2. Cook the Pasta: While the squash is roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
  3. Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
  4. Combine Ingredients: Add the roasted butternut squash to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Pour in the vegetable broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  5. Blend the Sauce: Using an immersion blender, blend the butternut squash mixture until smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer the mixture to a regular blender and blend until smooth, then return it to the skillet.
  6. Finish the Sauce: Stir in the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, chopped sage, ground nutmeg, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce is heated through and well combined.
  7. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
  8. Serve: Serve the butternut squash pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy this comforting dish immediately.

Tips and Variations

Tips for Perfect Half Baked Harvest Inspired Butternut Squash Pasta

  • Choose a Ripe Squash: Select a butternut squash that feels heavy for its size and has a deep, even color. This ensures sweetness and flavor.
  • Prep Ahead: The butternut squash can be roasted ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to two days, making this dish quicker to prepare on busy nights.
  • Customize the Creaminess: Adjust the amount of ricotta and heavy cream to suit your preference for a lighter or richer sauce.

Variations to Try

  • Add Protein: Stir in cooked chicken, sausage, or crispy bacon for a heartier meal.
  • Vegan Option: Substitute the ricotta and heavy cream with vegan alternatives such as cashew cream or coconut milk. Use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan.
  • Spicy Twist: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to give the dish a bit of heat.
  • Green Addition: Toss in some fresh spinach or kale just before serving for added nutrition and color.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Roasting Time: 30 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving)

  • Calories: 450
  • Protein: 14g
  • Carbohydrates: 60g
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Sugar: 6g

Historical Tidbits about Half Baked Harvest Inspired Butternut Squash Pasta

Butternut squash, a variety of winter squash, has its roots in the Americas, where it was cultivated by indigenous peoples for centuries. It became popular in Europe after being introduced by early explorers. The creamy, nutty flavor of butternut squash makes it a versatile ingredient in both savory and sweet dishes.

The concept of combining roasted vegetables with pasta is a modern twist that highlights the versatility and health benefits of butternut squash. Pasta itself has a long history, originating in Italy and becoming a staple food across the globe. The pairing of butternut squash with pasta brings together the best of both worlds—traditional comfort and modern innovation.

This recipe is inspired by Half Baked Harvest’s approach to making wholesome, comforting meals with a touch of elegance. Known for her creative and accessible recipes, Tieghan Gerard of Half Baked Harvest often incorporates seasonal ingredients and innovative twists on classic dishes, making her recipes a go-to for home cooks seeking both comfort and flair.

Why Half Baked Harvest Inspired Butternut Squash Pasta Recipe Stands Out

Our butternut squash pasta recipe is designed to be both comforting and sophisticated. By roasting the squash, we enhance its natural sweetness and depth of flavor. The creamy ricotta and Parmesan add richness, while sage and nutmeg provide an aromatic touch that elevates the dish. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also allows for customization to suit various dietary needs and preferences.

The detailed instructions ensure that even novice cooks can achieve a delicious result, while the tips and variations offer opportunities for experienced cooks to experiment and personalize the dish. This combination of simplicity and adaptability makes our butternut squash pasta a standout recipe for any occasion.

Additionally, understanding the historical context of the ingredients and the inspiration behind the recipe adds a layer of appreciation and connection to the food we prepare and enjoy. By following this recipe, you’re not only creating a delicious meal but also partaking in a culinary tradition that spans continents and centuries.