Nothing says fall quite like a bowl of creamy pasta wrapped in the warmth of seasonal flavors. This butternut squash pasta sauce is the perfect way to bring comfort to your dinner table without spending hours in the kitchen. Smooth, velvety, and naturally sweet, it’s a vegan-friendly recipe that feels indulgent but is made with simple, wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with family, this cozy dish is a hug in a bowl.
Recipe Info
| Category | Dinner, Pasta |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 25 minutes |
| Servings | 4 |
| Calories | ~280 per serving |
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or other plant-based milk)
- 2 tbsp nutritional yeast (for a “cheesy” flavor)
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 12 oz pasta of your choice (penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine work beautifully)
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Cook the squash: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add cubed butternut squash and cook for 10–12 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 4–5 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
- Blend the sauce: Transfer the cooked squash, onion, garlic, vegetable broth, almond milk, nutritional yeast, nutmeg, paprika, salt, and pepper into a blender. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Cook the pasta: In the same pot used for squash, cook pasta according to package directions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
- Combine and serve: Pour the sauce over the cooked pasta and toss to coat. If needed, add a splash of pasta water to loosen the sauce. Serve warm with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or vegan parmesan.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Smoothest sauce: Blend the squash while still warm—it creates a silkier texture.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of plant milk.
- Spice control: If you like a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes before blending.
Recipe Variations
- Protein boost: Add sautéed mushrooms, chickpeas, or grilled chicken for extra heartiness.
- Creamier finish: Stir in a spoonful of cashew cream or coconut milk.
- Kid-friendly: Swap nutmeg for a little cinnamon for a sweeter, mild flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This sauce pairs beautifully with:
- A fresh green salad with balsamic vinaigrette
- Garlic bread or roasted vegetables on the side
- A sprinkle of fresh basil, parsley, or vegan parmesan on top
Conclusion
This creamy butternut squash pasta sauce is the definition of cozy fall comfort food—warm, nourishing, and full of flavor. Whether you enjoy it as a quick weeknight meal or as a centerpiece for a seasonal dinner, it’s sure to become a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Gather your favorite people, grab a fork, and dig in.