Creamy Butternut Squash Spaghetti is a delightful fusion of rich, autumnal flavors and comforting pasta that brings warmth to any dining table. This dish features a velvety butternut squash sauce that perfectly coats al dente spaghetti, creating a satisfying meal that feels indulgent without being overly heavy. With its vibrant color, creamy texture, and a hint of warmth from spices, this recipe is not only a feast for the eyes but also a celebration of seasonal ingredients that everyone will love.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will adore Creamy Butternut Squash Spaghetti for its unique flavor profile that balances sweetness, earthiness, and a touch of nuttiness. The sauce is made with simple, wholesome ingredients that come together quickly, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or cozy weekends alike. Plus, it fits beautifully into vegetarian and vegan diets, offering a nutritious pasta option that is both filling and satisfying. Each bite is a hug in a bowl, perfect for any pasta lover looking to enjoy something a little different.
Tips and Tricks
- Roasting the Squash: For an even richer flavor, roast the butternut squash until caramelized before blending it into the sauce. This enhances its natural sweetness and adds a depth of flavor.
- Pasta Water Magic: Remember to reserve some pasta water before draining. This starchy water can be added to the sauce to adjust the creaminess and help the sauce cling better to the spaghetti.
- Nutmeg & Spice: A pinch of nutmeg adds a warm, inviting note to the sauce, but be careful not to overdo it. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste.
Make Ahead Tips
To save time, you can peel, chop, and roast the butternut squash a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Additionally, you can prepare the creamy sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge; it will stay fresh for about four days. Just reheat it gently before mixing it with the cooked spaghetti.
Recipe Variations
- Add Protein: Toss in some sautéed mushrooms or grilled chicken to add protein and make the dish heartier.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like sage or thyme to elevate the flavor. A sprinkle of fresh herbs before serving adds a burst of freshness.
- Swap Pasta: Use gluten-free pasta or zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a lighter, gluten-free version of this dish.
How to Serve
Serve your Creamy Butternut Squash Spaghetti in a large, shallow bowl to showcase its vibrant color. Garnish with freshly grated parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for a vegan option), a drizzle of olive oil, and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Pair this dish with a side of garlic bread or a simple arugula salad to balance the richness of the pasta.
Pairing Suggestions
For drink pairings, consider a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, which cuts through the creaminess of the sauce. A light-bodied red like Pinot Noir also complements the flavors beautifully. If you’re in the mood for something non-alcoholic, a herbal tea or sparkling water with lemon would be refreshing. For dessert, a slice of pumpkin pie or a warm apple crisp makes for a lovely ending to this fall-inspired meal.
How to Store
Leftover Creamy Butternut Squash Spaghetti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze the sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm gently on the stove, adding a splash of pasta water if the sauce thickens too much.
Equipment Needed
- Baking sheet for roasting the squash
- Blender or food processor for making the sauce
- Large pot for boiling the pasta
- Skillet for combining the pasta and sauce
If you don’t have a blender, you can use an immersion blender directly in the pot after cooking the squash.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe vegan, simply use plant-based milk instead of cream or dairy milk. For a nut-free version, use sunflower seed milk or oat milk. Replace any cheese with nutritional yeast or omit it entirely to keep it allergen-friendly.
Seasonal Adaptations
In spring or summer, consider adding fresh vegetables like peas or asparagus for a pop of color and freshness. In winter, you can pair the dish with hearty greens like kale or spinach to complement its creamy texture.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen butternut squash? Yes! Frozen butternut squash is a great time-saver. Just thaw and blend into the sauce.
- What can I substitute for spaghetti? You can use any pasta shape you prefer, including penne or fettuccine. Zoodles are a great low-carb alternative.
- How do I make this gluten-free? Simply use gluten-free pasta, and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
How To Make Creamy Butternut Squash Spaghetti
Creamy Butternut Squash Spaghetti
Creamy Butternut Squash Spaghetti is a delightful fusion of rich, autumnal flavors and comforting pasta that brings warmth to any dining table.
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 8 oz spaghetti (or pasta of choice)
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for vegan option)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
- Fresh parsley or sage for garnish (optional)
- Grated parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- On a baking sheet, toss the diced butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
- In a large pot, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.
- In a blender or food processor, combine the roasted butternut squash, vegetable broth, heavy cream, minced garlic, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the cooked spaghetti with the butternut squash sauce. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired creaminess is reached.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs and cheese if desired.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 264Total Fat 15gSaturated Fat 8gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 6gCholesterol 35mgSodium 279mgCarbohydrates 27gFiber 4gSugar 3gProtein 7g
dinnerbytes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although dinnerbytes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Butternut Squash Spaghetti is a heartwarming dish that captures the essence of fall and brings comfort to the table. With its easy preparation and delightful flavors, it’s perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying solo on a cozy night in. Embrace the season with this recipe, and don’t hesitate to make it your own with personal touches and variations. Happy cooking!
