The scent of roasted butternut squash wafts through the air, mingling with the rich aroma of garlic and spices, creating a symphony of flavor that dances on your taste buds. Imagine twirling perfectly cooked penne pasta, coated in a creamy sauce and topped with vibrant greens. That’s the magic of One-Pan Butternut Squash Penne—your new go-to comfort food that warms both body and soul.
Picture this: a chilly evening, a cozy kitchen filled with laughter as family gathers around the table. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings people together, igniting joy with every bite. stuffed mini pumpkins You might even reminisce about those delightful autumn evenings spent savoring hearty meals. With every forkful of One-Pan Butternut Squash Penne, you can create cherished memories that linger long after dinner is over.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This One-Pan Butternut Squash Penne is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- The flavors blend beautifully for a creamy, savory delight everyone will love.
- The vibrant colors of the dish make it visually appealing and a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds.
- Its versatility means you can easily adapt it to suit dietary preferences or whatever veggies you have on hand.
Ingredients for One-Pan Butternut Squash Penne
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Penne Pasta: Choose whole wheat or gluten-free if desired. Cooking this pasta al dente gives it the perfect bite.
- Butternut Squash: Fresh or pre-cut works well; ensure it’s cubed for even cooking.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle enhances flavor while helping to roast the squash to perfection.
- Fresh Garlic: Minced garlic releases an aromatic essence that elevates the dish.
- Vegetable Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels while adding depth to the flavor.
- Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess and richness, making each bite decadent.
- Spinach: Fresh spinach wilts beautifully into the pasta, adding nutrients and color.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan adds a savory finish to this comforting dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make One-Pan Butternut Squash Penne
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread out your cubed butternut squash on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle olive oil over it and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Roast That Squash
Pop the baking sheet into the oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the squash is tender and caramelized. You want those lovely golden edges!
Step 3: Cook Your Pasta
While your squash roasts, bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add your penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 4: Create The Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, add some olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for about one minute until fragrant—careful not to burn it! Then pour in vegetable broth and bring it to a simmer.
Step 5: Mix It All Together
Add your roasted butternut squash into the skillet along with cream cheese. Stir until creamy and combined. Toss in cooked penne and fresh spinach until everything is well mixed.
Step 6: Serve It Up
Transfer your One-Pan Butternut Squash Penne onto plates or into bowls. Sprinkle generously with grated parmesan cheese for that perfect finishing touch!
Enjoy this delightful dish that not only fills bellies but also warms hearts!
You Must Know
- This One-Pan Butternut Squash Penne combines flavor and convenience for an unforgettable meal.
- Its vibrant colors and aromas transform dinner into a celebration.
- Easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, it’s a dish your family will request time and again.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by roasting the butternut squash until golden, then cook the penne in the same pan with garlic and broth. This method infuses flavors beautifully while minimizing cleanup, making it a win-win for busy cooks.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap the penne for your favorite pasta or add spinach for some greenery. A dash of nutmeg or chili flakes can also elevate the dish’s flavor profile, adding a personal twist that makes it uniquely yours.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to bring back its creamy consistency.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- 1.
- Always roast butternut squash until it’s slightly caramelized; this enhances its natural sweetness and flavor. 2.
- Taste as you go!
- Adjust seasonings based on your preferences for a more personalized dish. 3.
- Using starchy pasta water can help create a luscious sauce that clings perfectly to your penne.
Sharing this recipe brings back memories of my friends gathering around the table, complimenting the creamy sauce while I quietly basked in my culinary glory. It’s moments like these that make cooking so rewarding!
FAQs :
What is One-Pan Butternut Squash Penne?
One-Pan Butternut Squash Penne is a delicious pasta dish that combines creamy butternut squash with penne pasta. This recipe simplifies cooking by using only one pan, making cleanup a breeze. The dish typically includes ingredients like garlic, onions, vegetable broth, and spices that enhance the natural sweetness of the squash. cozy sweet potato salad savory Thai chicken curry It’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends when you want something comforting yet healthy. For more inspiration, check out this Spicy Chorizo Sweet Potato Chili recipe.
How long does it take to prepare One-Pan Butternut Squash Penne?
Preparing One-Pan Butternut Squash Penne takes about 30 to 40 minutes from start to finish. This includes the time needed to chop the butternut squash and other vegetables, as well as cooking the pasta until al dente. vegan pumpkin pasta dish Since everything cooks in one pan, you can save time on both cooking and cleaning. It’s a quick and efficient meal option for anyone looking for a flavorful dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
Can I make One-Pan Butternut Squash Penne vegan?
Yes, you can easily make One-Pan Butternut Squash Penne vegan by using plant-based substitutes. For instance, replace any dairy-based ingredients like cheese or cream with vegan alternatives such as cashew cream or nutritional yeast for added flavor. Additionally, ensure that your vegetable broth is free from animal products. This way, you can enjoy all the rich flavors while adhering to a vegan diet.
What variations can I try with One-Pan Butternut Squash Penne?
There are many delightful variations you can explore with One-Pan Butternut Squash Penne. You might add sautéed spinach or kale for extra nutrients and color. Incorporating roasted nuts like walnuts or pine nuts will give it a satisfying crunch. For some heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. Experimenting with herbs such as thyme or sage can also elevate the dish’s flavor profile.
Conclusion for One-Pan Butternut Squash Penne :
In conclusion, One-Pan Butternut Squash Penne is an easy-to-make recipe that delivers rich flavors and comforting textures in every bite. It’s perfect for those busy days when you need a quick meal without sacrificing taste or nutrition. With its versatility, this dish invites countless variations to suit your palate. Enjoy the delightful combination of creamy butternut squash and pasta while keeping cleanup simple and hassle-free!
One-Pan Butternut Squash Penne
One-Pan Butternut Squash Penne is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines roasted butternut squash with al dente penne pasta in a creamy garlic sauce. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, bringing warmth and nutrition to your table. With just one pan to clean, you can enjoy delicious homemade pasta without the hassle.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups butternut squash (cubed)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves fresh garlic (minced)
- 1 cup low-sodium vegetable broth
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread cubed butternut squash on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Roast the squash for 25-30 minutes until tender and caramelized.
- While the squash roasts, boil salted water in a large pot. Cook penne according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in roasted butternut squash and cream cheese until creamy. Add cooked penne and fresh spinach, mixing well.
- Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 56 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg
Keywords: For a vegan option, substitute cream cheese with cashew cream or nutritional yeast. Feel free to add red pepper flakes for heat or swap penne with your favorite pasta.




[…] is that nostalgic memory come to life—perfect for Sunday brunch or a cozy dinner with loved ones. perfect pairing with bread As you slice into it, steam escapes, and you can almost hear angels singing. pair with red beans […]