Trader Joe’s Butternut Squash Pasta Recipe Made Easy

When the cooler months roll in, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of pasta to satisfy your cravings. Trader Joe’s butternut squash pasta recipe is a delightful way to combine the naturally sweet and nutty flavor of butternut squash with al dente pasta, creating a dish that’s both hearty and nourishing.

This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something simple yet impressive. Plus, it’s fully customizable to suit your taste buds, whether you prefer it vegan, dairy-free, or with a little extra zing.

The creamy texture of the roasted butternut squash pairs beautifully with garlic, sage, and a touch of parmesan or nutritional yeast for a cheesy finish. Whether you’re a Trader Joe’s fan or just discovering the magic of butternut squash, this pasta recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Let’s dive into this easy, flavorful, and wholesome recipe that you’ll want to make again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Trader Joe’s butternut squash pasta is a fantastic blend of simplicity and flavor. You get the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash, enhanced with aromatic herbs, and combined with perfectly cooked pasta for a meal that feels indulgent but is surprisingly healthy.

This recipe is incredibly versatile, catering to vegans and omnivores alike. It uses minimal ingredients but guarantees maximum taste, making it perfect for beginner cooks or those looking for a quick dinner fix.

Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies without sacrificing flavor!

Another reason to love this dish is its use of Trader Joe’s convenient pre-cut butternut squash, saving you prep time without compromising freshness or flavor. If you enjoy recipes like this, you might also want to check out my Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide and Vegan Recipes No Tofu: Delicious Plant-Based Meals for more wholesome meal ideas.

Ingredients

• 1 (16 oz) package Trader Joe’s pre-cut butternut squash
• 8 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite shape)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh sage, chopped (or ½ teaspoon dried sage)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (substitute nutritional yeast for vegan option)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)
• 1 tablespoon vegan butter or regular butter
• ¼ cup toasted pine nuts (optional, for garnish)
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Baking sheet
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Colander
• Mixing spoon or spatula
• Cheese grater (if using block Parmesan)
• Knife and cutting board

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Spread the pre-cut butternut squash evenly on a baking sheet. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and toss to coat.
2. Roast the butternut squash for 20-25 minutes until tender and lightly caramelized around the edges. Stir halfway through roasting for even cooking.
3. While the squash is roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
4. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped sage, sautéing for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
5. Add the roasted butternut squash to the skillet. Use a fork or potato masher to lightly mash some of the squash pieces, creating a creamy base for the sauce while still leaving some chunks for texture.
6. Toss in the cooked pasta, mixing well to coat everything with the squash sauce. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time if the mixture seems dry or thick.
7. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast), red pepper flakes if using, and adjust salt and pepper to taste. Cook for another minute to allow the cheese to melt and everything to combine.
8. Remove from heat and garnish with toasted pine nuts and fresh parsley. Serve immediately while warm and comforting.

Tips & Variations

Tip: If you prefer a smoother sauce, blend half of the roasted butternut squash with a bit of pasta water before returning it to the pan.

Variation: Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra veggies and flavor.

You can easily make this dish vegan by swapping butter for vegan butter and Parmesan for nutritional yeast. For a nutty crunch, use toasted walnuts or pecans if you don’t have pine nuts.

For a protein boost, toss in cooked chickpeas or white beans. To bring in some freshness, a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving brightens the whole dish.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This butternut squash pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad, such as my Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas, to balance out the richness of the dish.

For a heartier meal, serve alongside roasted vegetables or crusty garlic bread. A light drizzle of balsamic glaze over the pasta adds a lovely tangy contrast to the sweetness of the squash.

If you want to keep things light and fresh, a simple lemon vinaigrette or a side of steamed green beans works beautifully. This dish also reheats well, making it a great option for meal prep lunches or dinners.

Conclusion

Trader Joe’s butternut squash pasta recipe is a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal that brings the best of seasonal produce right to your table. Its creamy texture and balanced blend of sweet, savory, and aromatic notes make it a perfect dish for any occasion, from casual weeknights to cozy weekend dinners.

With minimal ingredients and simple steps, it’s accessible for cooks of all levels. Plus, the versatility lets you tweak it to suit your dietary preferences or ingredient availability.

Whether you’re a fan of Trader Joe’s products or just love butternut squash, this pasta recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Don’t forget to explore more delicious and wholesome recipes on the site, like the Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food or the Budget Bytes Recipe Thai Noodles Vegetarian and Delicious for more inspiration.

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