Butternut Squash Pasta Sauce

A creamy vegan butternut squash pasta sauce is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors with healthy ingredients. Perfect for dinner parties, family meals, or a cozy night in, this sauce elevates any pasta dish. With its smooth texture and vibrant color, it stands out as a nutritious alternative to traditional sauces. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and packed with wholesome goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This butternut squash pasta sauce can be made in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Deliciously Creamy: The blending of roasted vegetables creates a rich and creamy texture without the need for dairy.
• Versatile: Pair this sauce with any type of pasta or use it as a base for other dishes like lasagna or casseroles.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Made with fresh tomatoes and butternut squash, it’s loaded with vitamins and fiber, making it a healthy choice.
• Vegan-Friendly: This recipe is completely plant-based, catering to vegans and those looking to reduce their meat intake.

Tools and Preparation

To make the most of your cooking experience, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures that your butternut squash pasta sauce turns out perfectly every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Blender
• Parchment paper
• Pot for boiling pasta

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for roasting vegetables, ensuring they cook uniformly.
• Blender: Essential for achieving the creamy consistency of the sauce by thoroughly blending the roasted ingredients.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy after roasting.
• Pot for boiling pasta: A staple in any kitchen for cooking your favorite pasta varieties.

Ingredients

A creamy vegan butternut squash pasta sauce made with simple healthy ingredients.

For the Sauce

• 16 oz bag of frozen diced butternut squash
• 1.5 cups fresh chopped tomatoes
• 1/2 yellow onion
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme

For the Pasta

• 1 lb pasta
• 1/3 cup pasta water reserved from cooked pasta

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Butternut Squash Pasta Sauce

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 450F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will allow for easy cleanup after roasting.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

Place frozen cubed butternut squash, chopped tomatoes, and sliced onion on the baking sheet. Drizzle olive oil over the top and season with salt, black pepper, and thyme.

Step 3: Roast the Vegetables

Mix everything together to ensure all vegetables are evenly coated with oil and seasonings. Bake at 450F for 20 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

While your veggies are baking, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Before draining the cooked pasta, reserve 1/3 cup of the starchy pasta water.

Step 5: Blend into Sauce

Take the hot roasted vegetables from the oven and place them in a blender along with the reserved pasta water. Blend until you achieve a smooth sauce consistency.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Pour the creamy butternut squash pasta sauce over your cooked pasta. Toss gently to coat each piece evenly.

Step 7: Serve

Serve immediately garnished with freshly chopped parsley or parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious meal!

How to Serve Butternut Squash Pasta Sauce

Butternut squash pasta sauce is a delicious and creamy addition to any meal. This versatile sauce can be paired with various ingredients to enhance its flavor and presentation.

With Fresh Herbs

• Basil – A sprinkle of fresh basil adds a fragrant touch that complements the sweetness of the squash.
• Parsley – Chopped parsley brings a fresh, vibrant color and enhances the overall taste.

With Nuts and Seeds

• Pine Nuts – Toasted pine nuts add a delightful crunch and rich flavor.
• Pumpkin Seeds – Sprinkle roasted pumpkin seeds for added texture and a nutritious boost.

With Vegan Cheese

• Nutritional Yeast – This cheesy-flavored seasoning can sprinkle over the dish for a vegan-friendly option.
• Plant-Based Parmesan – Use store-bought or homemade versions to add a savory, cheesy flavor without dairy.

With Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli – Adds color and nutrition, making your dish even healthier.
• Sautéed Spinach – Incorporating sautéed spinach provides iron and additional flavors.

How to Perfect Butternut Squash Pasta Sauce

Creating the perfect butternut squash pasta sauce is easy with a few helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh tomatoes and onions enhance the flavor compared to canned options.
• Adjust Seasoning – Taste your sauce before serving; you may want to add more salt or herbs.
• Blend Thoroughly – Ensure that your sauce is smooth by blending long enough in the blender.
• Reserve Pasta Water – The starchy pasta water helps achieve the right consistency for your sauce.
• Experiment with Spices – Feel free to try different spices like nutmeg or garlic powder for added depth.

Best Side Dishes for Butternut Squash Pasta Sauce

Pairing side dishes with butternut squash pasta sauce can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to complement your dinner.

1. Garlic Bread – A classic favorite that adds crunch and flavor alongside your creamy pasta.
2. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce with crunchy croutons provides a refreshing contrast.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Caramelized sprouts bring an earthy flavor that matches wonderfully.
4. Grilled Asparagus – Lightly seasoned asparagus offers a tender bite that contrasts nicely with the sauce.
5. Quinoa Salad – A protein-rich salad packed with veggies complements the creamy pasta beautifully.
6. Coleslaw – Crunchy coleslaw adds a tangy element that balances the richness of the sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Butternut Squash Pasta Sauce can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can affect your dish. Here are some mistakes to avoid.

• Overcooking the vegetables: If you bake the vegetables for too long, they may become mushy. Stick to the recommended 20 minutes at 450F for perfect texture.
• Skipping the reserved pasta water: This water is essential for achieving a creamy consistency in your sauce. Always remember to reserve some before draining your pasta.
• Not blending enough: A smooth sauce is key to a great experience. Blend until completely smooth; any chunks can disrupt the creaminess of the sauce.
• Using low-quality olive oil: The flavor of your olive oil affects the overall taste of the dish. Invest in a good quality extra virgin olive oil for better results.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Taste your sauce before serving. You might need to add more salt or pepper based on personal preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Allow the sauce to cool before sealing it in a container.

Freezing Butternut Squash Pasta Sauce

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container as liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating Butternut Squash Pasta Sauce

• Oven: Preheat to 350F and heat covered for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between each, until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Butternut Squash Pasta Sauce?

Butternut Squash Pasta Sauce is a creamy vegan sauce made primarily from roasted butternut squash, tomatoes, and onions. It’s flavorful and healthy, perfect for pasta dishes.

How can I customize my Butternut Squash Pasta Sauce?

You can add spices like nutmeg or cayenne pepper for extra flavor. Additionally, incorporating spinach or kale can boost nutrition and color.

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare Butternut Squash Pasta Sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer as mentioned earlier.

What types of pasta work best with this sauce?

Any pasta works well, but shapes like penne or fusilli tend to hold onto the creamy sauce better than long strands.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

If you use gluten-free pasta, then yes! The recipe itself is naturally gluten-free as it primarily uses vegetables and olive oil.

Final Thoughts

This Butternut Squash Pasta Sauce is not only delicious but also versatile. Its creamy texture makes it appealing for various pasta dishes or even as a dip. Feel free to customize it with your favorite spices or veggies! Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Butternut Squash Pasta Sauce

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately four people 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Discover the creamy goodness of this vegan butternut squash pasta sauce, a delightful blend of wholesome ingredients that transforms any pasta dish into a comforting meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this sauce combines the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash with fresh tomatoes and aromatic herbs, creating a rich texture without any dairy. It’s not only quick to prepare in just 30 minutes, but it’s also versatile enough to pair with any pasta shape or serve as a base for casseroles and lasagna. Enjoy a nutritious, plant-based alternative that your whole family will love!

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 16 oz frozen diced butternut squash
• 1.5 cups fresh chopped tomatoes
• 1/2 yellow onion
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1 lb pasta
• 1/3 cup reserved pasta water

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 450F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. On the baking sheet, combine frozen butternut squash, chopped tomatoes, and sliced onion. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Roast for 20 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.
4. While the vegetables bake, cook the pasta according to package instructions, reserving 1/3 cup of the starchy cooking water before draining.
5. Blend the roasted vegetables with reserved pasta water until smooth.
6. Toss the creamy sauce with cooked pasta until evenly coated.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with freshly chopped parsley if desired.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Vegan

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 245
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 0mg