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Cheesy Roasted Butternut Squash Pasta

Ingredients

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For the Pasta:

  • 12 oz pasta (such as penne, rotini, or fettuccine)
  • Salt for pasta water

For the Roasted Butternut Squash:

  • 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)

For the Cheese Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk (or heavy cream for a richer sauce)
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Roasted Butternut Squash

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

  2. Toss the Squash: In a large bowl, combine the diced butternut squash with olive oil, salt, pepper, and thyme (if using). Toss until the squash is evenly coated.

  3. Roast: Spread the squash on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and caramelized, stirring halfway through.

Cook the Pasta

  1. Boil the Pasta: While the squash is roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

Make the Cheese Sauce

  1. Prepare the Roux: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour, cooking for about 1 minute until lightly golden.

  2. Add Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and is smooth, about 3-5 minutes.

  3. Stir in the Cheeses: Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).

Combine and Serve

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, roasted butternut squash, and cheese sauce. If the mixture seems too thick, add some reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.

  2. Serve: Spoon the pasta into bowls and garnish with extra cheese, herbs, or a sprinkle of pepper.

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