Description
Butternut Squash Alfredo is a creamy, comforting pasta dish that brings a cozy fall twist to classic Alfredo. Made with butternut squash, heavy cream, Parmesan, garlic, spinach, and mushrooms, it’s a flavorful and satisfying vegetarian dinner.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces uncooked penne pasta
- 6 ounces frozen spinach
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 white button mushrooms, sliced
- 1/4 cup diced yellow or white onion
- 1 1/2 cups cubed butternut squash
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream (room temperature)
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add a generous handful of salt, then the pasta. Cook until al dente, about 10–12 minutes. In the last minute of cooking, add the frozen spinach. Drain in a colander.
- While the pasta cooks, melt 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add mushrooms, onion, and a pinch of salt. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Transfer to a bowl.
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon butter. Add cubed butternut squash and a pinch of salt. Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
- Slowly whisk in the heavy cream, then stir in the Parmesan cheese. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat.
- Transfer the mixture to a blender (or use an immersion blender in the skillet) and puree until smooth. If too thick, thin with more cream or pasta water.
- Return sauce to the skillet and stir in the lemon juice.
- Add the drained pasta, spinach, and mushroom mixture to the sauce. Toss to combine and serve warm.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for best texture and flavor—avoid pre-grated varieties.
- To save time, use pre-cut fresh or frozen butternut squash.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of cream or water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
