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Crispy One-Pan Brown Butter Butternut Squash Pasta Easy Sage Recipe

brown butter butternut squash pasta - featured image

A cozy and flavorful one-pan pasta dish featuring crispy brown butter, tender butternut squash, and aromatic sage. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes (about 3 cups)
  • 8 ounces dry penne or rigatoni pasta
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 12 fresh sage leaves, whole
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
  • 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Peel the butternut squash and cut into uniform ½-inch cubes, about 10 minutes.
  2. In a large heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Let it foam and turn golden amber (4-5 minutes), then add sage leaves and fry until crisp (about 1 minute). Remove sage and drain on paper towels.
  3. Add diced squash to the browned butter, toss to coat, and spread in an even layer. Cook without stirring for 4 minutes to crisp edges, then stir and cook another 3-4 minutes until mostly tender.
  4. Stir in minced garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Add dry pasta and pour in broth. Press pasta down to submerge mostly. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
  6. Cook pasta uncovered for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until pasta is al dente and liquid mostly absorbed.
  7. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, adjust seasoning, and sprinkle crispy sage leaves on top.
  8. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on the side.

Notes

Keep a close eye on the butter while browning to avoid burning. If pasta seems dry before fully cooked, add a splash more broth or water. Use fresh sage leaves for best flavor and texture. Leftovers reheat well in a skillet with a splash of broth; avoid microwaving to preserve texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: butternut squash pasta, brown butter pasta, one-pan pasta, sage pasta, easy pasta recipe, fall dinner, cozy dinner, quick pasta