Butternut Sage Brown Butter Pasta

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

A delightful pasta dish that combines the nutty flavors of brown butter with the earthy sweetness of butternut squash and aromatic sage.

Emily

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-29T15:46:28.642Z

This Butternut Sage Brown Butter Pasta is the perfect comfort food for fall. The combination of roasted butternut squash, crispy sage, and nutty brown butter creates a rich, satisfying dish that warms the soul.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  • Rich, nutty flavor from brown butter
  • Sweet and earthy butternut squash
  • Aromatic sage adds a delightful fragrance
  • Perfectly creamy without heavy sauces

The Perfect Fall Comfort Food

As the leaves change and the air becomes crisp, there's nothing quite like a warm bowl of pasta to bring comfort and satisfaction. Butternut Sage Brown Butter Pasta embodies the essence of fall with its seasonal ingredients and rich flavors. The creamy texture of the pasta, combined with the sweet butternut squash and fragrant sage, creates a dish that is both hearty and comforting. It's perfect for cozy evenings spent indoors or as a centerpiece for gatherings with friends and family.

This recipe not only satisfies hunger but also delights the senses. The nutty aroma of brown butter fills your kitchen as it cooks, while the vibrant colors of the roasted squash make for a visually appealing dish. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of flavors, making it a standout meal that everyone will love. Whether you're a novice cook or a seasoned chef, this dish is simple enough to prepare yet impressive enough to serve at special occasions.

A Versatile Dish for Any Occasion

One of the great things about Butternut Sage Brown Butter Pasta is its versatility. It can be served as a comforting weeknight dinner or dressed up for a more formal meal. You can easily customize the recipe to suit your taste or dietary preferences by adding ingredients such as sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or even crispy bacon for an extra layer of flavor. This adaptability ensures that it can fit seamlessly into any dining setting, making it a staple in your recipe repertoire.

Additionally, this dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious brown butter sauce. The combination of flavors will elevate your dining experience and leave your guests raving about your cooking skills.

Tips for Perfecting Your Pasta

To ensure your Butternut Sage Brown Butter Pasta turns out perfectly every time, keep a few key tips in mind. First, don't skimp on the quality of your pasta. Fresh or high-quality dried pasta will make a noticeable difference in texture and flavor. Cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when combined with the hot sauce. This will help maintain the ideal consistency.

When preparing the brown butter, watch it closely as it can go from golden brown to burnt in a matter of seconds. Stir frequently and remove it from the heat as soon as it reaches the desired color. Finally, don't hesitate to adjust the amount of reserved pasta water you add to create a sauce that coats the pasta nicely. The goal is to achieve a creamy texture that clings to each strand.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

  • 12 oz pasta (like fettuccine or pappardelle)
  • 2 cups butternut squash, cubed
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup fresh sage leaves
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Parmesan cheese for serving

Make sure to use fresh sage for the best flavor!

Instructions

Roast the Butternut Squash

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for about 25 minutes, or until tender.

Cook the Pasta

While the squash is roasting, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.

Prepare the Brown Butter

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sage leaves and cook until the butter turns golden brown and the sage is crispy. Be careful not to burn it!

Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked pasta and roasted butternut squash to the skillet with the brown butter. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a sauce. Season with salt and pepper.

Serve

Serve hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and additional sage if desired.

Enjoy your delicious pasta dish!

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, storing them is easy! Allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to help loosen the sauce.

While the dish is best enjoyed fresh, the flavors often deepen after a day in the fridge, making it a great option for meal prep. Just be aware that the pasta may absorb some of the sauce, so you might need to adjust the moisture when reheating.

Pairing Wine with Butternut Sage Pasta

When it comes to pairing wine with Butternut Sage Brown Butter Pasta, a crisp white wine is an excellent choice. Look for wines with bright acidity, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, to complement the rich flavors of the brown butter and the sweetness of the butternut squash. These wines will enhance the overall dining experience and refresh your palate between bites.

If you prefer red wine, consider a light-bodied option like a Pinot Noir. Its fruit-forward notes and subtle earthiness will harmonize well with the dish without overwhelming the flavors. Whatever your preference, choose a wine that you enjoy, as it will elevate the meal and make it even more memorable.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen butternut squash?

Yes, frozen butternut squash can be used. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before roasting.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Fettuccine or pappardelle are great choices, but any pasta you prefer will work well.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Substitute the butter with a vegan alternative and omit the cheese or use a vegan cheese substitute.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Butternut Sage Brown Butter Pasta

A delightful pasta dish that combines the nutty flavors of brown butter with the earthy sweetness of butternut squash and aromatic sage.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration25 minutes
Overall Time40 minutes

Created by: Emily

Recipe Type: Comfort Food

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the Pasta

  1. 12 oz pasta (like fettuccine or pappardelle)
  2. 2 cups butternut squash, cubed
  3. 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  4. 1/4 cup fresh sage leaves
  5. Salt and pepper to taste
  6. Parmesan cheese for serving

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for about 25 minutes, or until tender.

Step 02

While the squash is roasting, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.

Step 03

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sage leaves and cook until the butter turns golden brown and the sage is crispy. Be careful not to burn it!

Step 04

Add the cooked pasta and roasted butternut squash to the skillet with the brown butter. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a sauce. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 05

Serve hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and additional sage if desired.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Total Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Dietary Fiber: 4g
  • Sugars: 6g
  • Protein: 10g