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Butternut Squash Pasta Sauce Recipe

4.8 from 80 reviews

This Butternut Squash Pasta Sauce is a delicious, creamy, and healthy alternative to traditional pasta sauces. Roasted butternut squash, fresh tomatoes, and onions are blended into a smooth, flavorful sauce that pairs perfectly with your favorite pasta. It’s easy to prepare, comforting, and excellent for a wholesome weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables and Seasonings

  • 16 oz bag of frozen diced butternut squash
  • 1.5 cups fresh chopped tomatoes
  • ½ yellow onion, sliced
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp dried thyme

Oils and Liquids

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • ⅓ cup reserved pasta water

Pasta

  • 1 lb pasta

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
  2. Prepare the vegetables: Place the frozen diced butternut squash, fresh chopped tomatoes, and sliced yellow onion evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
  3. Season and oil: Drizzle the vegetables with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Sprinkle salt, black pepper, and dried thyme over the veggies, then mix them together thoroughly so all pieces are coated evenly with oil and seasoning.
  4. Bake the vegetables: Bake the seasoned vegetables in the preheated oven for 20 minutes until the butternut squash is tender and the onions and tomatoes are roasted.
  5. Cook the pasta: While the vegetables bake, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve ⅓ cup of the pasta cooking water for the sauce.
  6. Blend the sauce: Transfer the hot roasted vegetables to a blender, add the reserved pasta water, and blend until you achieve a smooth, creamy sauce texture.
  7. Combine and serve: Pour the warm butternut squash sauce over the cooked pasta and toss well to coat. Serve immediately topped with parmesan cheese or plant-based parmesan for a dairy-free option.

Notes

  • Using frozen butternut squash saves prep time and is convenient year-round.
  • Reserve pasta water helps to thin and emulsify the sauce for a creamy consistency.
  • You can substitute fresh butternut squash cubes if available but adjust baking time accordingly.
  • For vegan options, use plant-based parmesan or skip the cheese altogether.
  • Feel free to add fresh herbs like basil or parsley for extra flavor when serving.

Keywords: butternut squash pasta sauce, roasted vegetable pasta sauce, vegetarian pasta sauce, easy pasta sauce recipe, creamy squash sauce