Contents
Introduction
Butternut Squash Alfredo Pasta from Damn Delicious is a delightful comfort food that brings together the creamy richness of Alfredo sauce with the seasonal flavors of butternut squash, bacon, and sage. This dish is perfect for those cozy fall evenings when you crave something warm and satisfying. With a combination of tender pasta and juicy rotisserie chicken, this recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
12 ounces cavatappi pasta
3 slices bacon, diced
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups whole milk
1 ½ cups butternut squash puree
1 ½ tablespoons finely chopped fresh sage
1 ½ teaspoons Dijon mustard
¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
¼ cup heavy cream
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 cups diced rotisserie chicken
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
25 minutes
Total Time
35 minutes
Yield
Serves 4-6
This Butternut Squash Alfredo Pasta recipe is not only rich in flavor but also showcases the wonderful autumn ingredients that make the season special. Quick to prepare and wonderfully satisfying, it’s sure to become a favorite on your dinner table. Enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Cook the Pasta
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the cavatappi pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
Prepare the Bacon
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the diced bacon and cook until it becomes brown and crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Discard excess fat from the skillet.
Make the Sauce Base
In the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring frequently, until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
Thicken the Sauce
Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook until it is lightly browned, about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the whole milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture is well combined and slightly thickened, about 1-2 minutes.
Add Flavorings
Stir in the butternut squash puree, chopped fresh sage, and Dijon mustard. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
Incorporate Cheese and Cream
Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and heavy cream until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Combine Pasta and Chicken
Add the cooked pasta and diced rotisserie chicken to the skillet. Gently toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are well coated with the sauce.
Serve
Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with the cooked bacon and additional fresh sage if desired.
Notes
Cooking Time
Ensure to monitor the cooking time for both the pasta and the bacon to achieve the desired texture and avoid overcooking.
Bacon Alternatives
For a healthier or vegetarian option, consider using turkey bacon or omitting bacon entirely.
Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Making Puree
If making butternut squash puree from scratch, roast or steam the squash until tender, then blend until smooth.
Cook techniques
Cooking Pasta
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta until it is al dente. This ensures the pasta remains firm when mixed with the sauce.
Cooking Bacon
Cook diced bacon in a skillet over medium-high heat until brown and crispy. This adds a crunchy texture and rich flavor to the dish.
Making a Sauce Base
Melt butter in the same skillet and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. This forms the aromatic base for the sauce.
Thickening Sauce
Whisk in flour and gradually add milk, cooking until thickened. This creates the creamy consistency characteristic of Alfredo sauce.
Adding Flavorings
Incorporate butternut squash puree, sage, and mustard for sweetness and depth. Simmering allows the flavors to meld together.
Incorporating Cheese and Cream
Stir in grated Parmesan and heavy cream for a smooth and cheesy sauce. The cheese should be melted completely for a cohesive sauce.
Combining Ingredients
Toss cooked pasta and chicken in the sauce to ensure even coating. This step integrates all flavors before serving.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute cavatappi with any pasta shape you prefer, such as fettuccine or penne.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can omit the bacon and chicken, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make it entirely vegetarian.
Can I prepare the butternut squash puree ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make butternut squash puree in advance and store it in the refrigerator for several days.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I freeze this pasta dish?
Yes, you can freeze the dish, but the texture may change upon thawing. It’s best to freeze without the pasta and cream, then combine later.
Conclusion
This Butternut Squash Alfredo Pasta is a delightful blend of creamy textures and rich flavors, perfect for cozy fall dinners. The added bacon and rotisserie chicken not only enhance the taste but also make it a hearty dish that satisfies. It’s a unique twist on traditional Alfredo that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
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