Introduction – A Bowl of Fall Comfort
There’s something magical about butternut squash once the weather cools. In my grandmother’s kitchen, autumn meant roasted vegetables, olive oil warming on the stove, and pasta that felt like a hug. This Butternut Squash Feta Pasta captures that same comforting spirit—simple ingredients transformed into something rich, creamy, and deeply satisfying.
The sweetness of roasted butternut squash blends beautifully with salty, tangy feta, creating a naturally creamy sauce without needing heavy cream. It’s the kind of vegetarian pasta that doesn’t feel like a compromise—just good, honest comfort food you’ll crave again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Butternut Squash Feta Pasta
- Creamy without heavy cream
- Perfect fall & winter comfort food
- Vegetarian and satisfying
- Easy enough for weeknights
- Elegant enough for guests
This dish feels rustic and refined at the same time—exactly how Italian-inspired home cooking should be.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Roasted Squash
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
For the Pasta
- 12 oz pasta (rigatoni, penne, or fusilli)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¾ cup vegetable broth
- ¾ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ tsp chili flakes (optional)
- Salt, to taste
For Finishing
Freshly cracked black pepper
Fresh sage or thyme leaves
Extra feta, for garnish
Olive oil drizzle
Tools You’ll Need
- Baking sheet
- Large pot
- Blender or food processor
- Skillet or saucepan
- Wooden spoon
How to Make Butternut Squash Feta Pasta
Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
Toss cubed squash with olive oil, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer.
Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until tender and caramelized at the edges.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Squash Sauce
Add roasted squash to a blender or food processor along with garlic and vegetable broth. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Tip: If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of pasta water.
Step 4: Warm the Sauce
Pour the squash sauce into a skillet over medium-low heat. Stir gently for 2–3 minutes until warmed through.
Crumble in the feta cheese and stir until just combined. The feta should soften but not fully melt
Step 5: Combine Pasta & Sauce
Add cooked pasta directly to the sauce. Toss gently to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
Finish with chili flakes, fresh herbs, and an olive oil drizzle.
Tips for Perfect Butternut Squash Feta Pasta
- Roast squash deeply for maximum flavor
- Don’t over-blend—silky, not gluey
- Add feta last to keep its tang
- Salt carefully—feta brings natural saltiness
Delicious Variations
Spinach & Squash Feta Pasta
Stir in fresh spinach at the end until just wilted.
Sage Brown Butter Version
Drizzle with browned butter and crispy sage leaves for extra richness.
Protein Add-Ins
- Crispy pancetta
- Grilled chicken
- Roasted chickpeas
Vegan Option
Use dairy-free feta and vegetable broth—still creamy and delicious.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
- Refrigerator: Store up to 3 days
- Reheat: Gently on stovetop with a splash of broth or water
- Freezing: Sauce freezes well (pasta best fresh)
What to Serve With This Pasta
- Simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
- Garlic bread or focaccia
- A glass of dry white wine
Health Benefits
- Butternut squash is rich in fiber and vitamin A
- Feta adds protein and calcium
- Olive oil supports heart health
- A balanced vegetarian comfort meal
Helpful External Resources
- How to roast butternut squash: https://www.loveandlemons.com/roasted-butternut-squash/
- Choosing the right pasta shapes: https://www.delallo.com/blog/pasta-shapes-guide
- Feta cheese guide: https://www.seriouseats.com/feta-cheese-guide
- Italian fall pasta ideas: https://www.bonappetit.com/gallery/fall-pasta-recipes
Final Thoughts
This Butternut Squash Feta Pasta is the kind of recipe that feels cozy, nourishing, and just a little special. It’s perfect for cool evenings, slow dinners, and moments when you want something comforting without being heavy.
If you try it, tell me:
- Extra feta or just enough?
- Sage or thyme?
- Creamier or more rustic?