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Creamy Butternut Squash Bow-Tie Pasta

A deliciously silky pasta dish made with sweet butternut squash and a creamy sauce that delights both kids and adults alike.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 540

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Sauce Base
  • 12 oz Bow-tie pasta (farfalle) The ridges and folds catch the sauce perfectly.
  • 1 medium Butternut squash (about 2.5–3 lbs) Peeled, seeded, cubed; or 4 cups pre-cut to save time.
  • 2 tbsp Olive oil For roasting and sautéing.
  • 2 tbsp Unsalted butter For richness and browning notes.
  • 1 small Yellow onion, diced Adds sweetness and depth.
  • 3–4 cloves Garlic, minced Non-negotiable for flavor.
  • 6–8 leaves Fresh sage, chopped Or 1 tsp dried. Earthy flavor.
  • 1 tsp Fresh thyme, leaves Or 1/2 tsp dried.
  • 1.5 cups Vegetable or chicken broth To loosen and flavor the sauce.
  • 1/2 cup Heavy cream For a creamy finish (sub with half-and-half if needed).
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated Plus more for serving.
  • 1/4–1/2 tsp Red pepper flakes Optional for a kick.
  • 1 pinch Nutmeg, freshly grated Adds depth to the sauce.
  • to taste Salt and black pepper Season generously.
  • 1–2 tsp Lemon juice To brighten at the end.
  • Toasted walnuts or pumpkin seeds Optional for crunch.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss cubed butternut squash with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a sheet pan and roast for 20–25 minutes until caramelized and fork-tender.
Cooking Pasta
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook farfalle until just shy of al dente (about 1 minute less than package instructions). Reserve 1 cup pasta water, drain, and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics
  1. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat remaining 1 tbsp olive oil and butter over medium. Add the diced onion with a pinch of salt and cook for 5–7 minutes until soft and lightly golden.
  2. Stir in the minced garlic, chopped sage, thyme leaves, and red pepper flakes; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Blend Sauce
  1. Add roasted butternut squash and broth to the pan. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, then transfer to a blender (or use an immersion blender) and blend until completely smooth. Return sauce to the pan.
Finish Sauce
  1. Stir in cream, Parmesan, and a pinch of nutmeg. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes, stirring, until glossy. If too thick, add reserved pasta water 1/4 cup at a time.
Combine
  1. Add cooked farfalle to the sauce and toss over low heat until every bow-tie is coated. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice to brighten.
Serving
  1. Top with extra Parmesan, cracked pepper, herbs, and toasted walnuts or seeds for texture.
  2. Optional drizzle of good olive oil for shine.

Notes

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheats well; add a splash of water or milk to loosen. Sauce can be frozen separately for up to 2 months.