Butternut Squash Alfredo Pasta with Sage

Roasted butternut squash gives this creamy garlic Parmesan Alfredo sauce a naturally sweet, velvety texture. Toss it with pasta, browned sage, and reserved pasta water for a comforting vegetarian dinner.

Prep: 15 min · Cook: 40 min · Yield: 4 · Method: Stovetop

Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds butternut squash
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1.25 teaspoons kosher salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 12 ounces fettuccine
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 12 leaves fresh sage leaves
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup parmesan cheese

Cooking instructions

1. Heat the oven to 425°F. Peel, seed, and cut the butternut squash into 1-inch cubes. Toss with 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast until very tender and lightly browned, 25 to 30 minutes. (about 30 min) — 425°F
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine until just al dente according to the package directions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain. (about 12 min) — Boiling
3. While the pasta cooks, melt the butter with the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sage and cook until the leaves are crisp, about 1 minute. Transfer the sage to a plate, leaving the butter in the skillet. (about 3 min) — Medium heat
4. Add the garlic to the skillet and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the roasted squash, heavy cream, remaining 3/4 teaspoon salt, and remaining 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Simmer for 2 minutes, then blend with an immersion blender until smooth. Alternatively, carefully blend in batches in a heat-safe blender. (about 5 min) — Medium heat
5. Return the sauce to the skillet over low heat. Stir in the Parmesan until melted. Add the drained pasta and toss until coated, loosening with reserved pasta water 2 tablespoons at a time until glossy and creamy. (about 4 min) — Low heat
6. Taste and adjust the seasoning. Divide among bowls and top with the crisp sage leaves and additional Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately. (about 2 min) — Warm