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Butternut Squash Pasta Bake

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This cozy Butternut Pasta Bake features a creamy butternut squash sauce, tender pasta, and a crispy golden breadcrumb topping. It’s a comforting vegetarian dish that’s perfect for fall or winter dinners.

Ingredients

  • 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 small yellow onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 1/4 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
  • 1/4 cup vegetable broth
  • 8 ounces pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for topping, optional)
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/3 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for breadcrumbs)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Toss cubed butternut squash with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on the baking sheet and roast for 25–30 minutes, until tender and slightly caramelized.
  3. While the squash roasts, cook the pasta in salted water according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
  4. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Add garlic, thyme, and nutmeg; cook for 1 minute.
  5. Add roasted squash to the pan with onions. Stir in milk and broth. Use an immersion blender to puree the mixture until smooth (or transfer to a blender and blend carefully).
  6. Stir in Parmesan and mozzarella cheese until melted and combined. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  7. Combine cooked pasta with the butternut sauce and mix well. Pour into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  8. In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Sprinkle over the top of the pasta.
  9. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until bubbling and golden on top. Let sit for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if desired.
  • Add sautéed spinach or kale for extra greens.
  • You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake.
  • Top with extra cheese or fresh herbs before serving for added flavor.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://yumfamilyrecipes.com/butternut-squash-pasta-bake/