Butternut Squash Sauce
There are so many fall foods I just adore – apples, pears, and all the winter squash! Pumpkin, spaghetti squash, butternut squash…gosh I heart this season. I love how delicious and versatile butternut squash is! Once roasted, you can enjoy as an easy side to family meals or add to all kinds of recipes, like butternut squash pancakes and super moist meatballs. You’re going to love how easy this creamy pasta sauce is to make with just a handful of healthy ingredients. Its creaminess comes from the butternut squash and beans, which happen to be quite a lovely duo! You can also stir in some yogurt and cheese if you are in need of extra comfort ;). And just like my creamy sweet potato sauce, green pasta sauce, and carrot pasta sauce, it’s a great alternative to tomato-based sauces. Here’s a collection of favorite vegetarian pasta sauces all in one place.
Ingredients
I am highlighting just the ones that need further explanation. The complete list is in the recipe card below.
Butternut Squash – Choose one that is about 2 pounds. And yes you’re going to need all of it! Beans – white beans, such as great northern and cannellini, will work best. You can also use chickpeas if that’s what you have on hand. Vegetable stock – added to thin out the sauce and for flavor. You can also use chicken stock if you wish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Tips for Success
There is no need to peel the garlic cloves as they will just pop right out perfectly caramelized and delicious once roasted. A fan of garlic? Go ahead and roast a whole head and add more to this sauce or save to enjoy throughout the week! Meal prep – Since roasting the vegetables is what takes the longest, feel free to prep over the weekend for a super easy weeknight meal.
Serving Suggestions
To make the butternut squash sauce creamier and more savory, stir in some yogurt or cheese. Toss some cooked pasta with the sauce. If you want the sauce to really cling to the pasta, I highly recommend going for ruffled or ridged shapes, like fusili, rotini, and cavatappi (pictured). Top with some fresh herbs for some brightness. BUT this creamy sauce isn’t just for pasta. Try serving with:
Oatmeal Lentils Quinoa Rice
If you’d like, you can enjoy the dish with an additional protein source, such as:
Chicken Tofu Salmon Shrimp
It’s actually super delicious as a soup too! Tip: if your child doesn’t like mixed foods, try serving the pasta and sauce separately. Here are some more dinner serving suggestions for toddlers and kids.
Storage
Store leftover butternut squash sauce in an airtight container or jar and refrigerate for up to 5 days. They freeze really well too. I personally like to freeze in individual portions. This freezer tray is really great! Once frozen, you can pop the molded sauce out and transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Did you make this recipe? Leave a rating below and let me know how you liked the recipe! Your feedback means so much to me!
