Love, Life, & Beyond

I love creamy pasta. What I don’t love is all the cream, milk, and cheese that traditionally make it so rich. This butternut squash pasta recipe is the best of both worlds. It’s smooth and creamy without using any dairy products. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can make this as a vegan dish or sprinkle some crispy, crumbly bacon bits to satisfy your meat cravings.

Butternut squash, a member of the pumpkin family, is a nutrient-packed ingredient that works beautifully in a variety of dishes. From soups and roasted sides to this flavorful pasta sauce, its natural sweetness and creamy texture make it a favourite. Butternut squash is rich in fibre, vitamin C, potassium, magnesium, and vitamin A, making it as nutritious as it is delicious.

Although butternut squash isn’t commonly available in India, you can find it occasionally in some stores, making this recipe a special treat. Perfect for fall or any time of year, this butternut squash fettuccine is a cosy, satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking for a vegan pasta recipe, a creamy dish without dairy, or a healthier alternative to traditional creamy pasta, this recipe checks all the boxes. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!

Recipe for Butternut Squash Fettuccine 

Ingredients:

Makes 3 servings

• 1 butternut squash
• 1 large pod garlic
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Fettuccine for 3
• 5-6 bacon strips (optional)
• 2 tbsp Sambal Oelek
• ½ cup grated parmesan (or vegan) cheese 
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• Sun-dried tomatoes (optional)
• Salt

Method:

• Peel, de-seed, and chop the butternut squash into small chunks. 
• Separate the seeds and soak them in water to clean. These can be roasted on medium heat to add to the pasta or eaten as a snack.
• You can either boil or bake the squash. 
• If boiling, just cook them with a cup of water till soft.
• If roasting, coat the pieces with 1 tablespoon of oil and about a teaspoon of salt. Lay the pieces flat on a baking tray and bake at 200deg C for about 30 minutes. Halfway through, stir the pieces and add the peeled garlic.
• Meanwhile, cook the fettuccine as per instructions. Keep aside the pasta water.
• On another pan, cook the bacon strips till crisp. Keep aside on a paper towel. 
• Once the squash has cooled down a bit, give it a whirl in the blender with half a cup of the pasta water.
• Heat up a pan and add a tablespoon of oil.
• Next, add the squash and the sambal oelek.
• Add more of the pasta water to make a creamy consistency.
• Stir in the pasta and coat it well.
• Add the rosemary and sun-dried tomatoes if using.
• To serve, spoon the pasta into the bowls. Top with grated cheese and crumbled bacon strips. 
• You can even add the roasted pumpkin seeds for some crunch.
• Enjoy it hot!

Looking for a cozy, crowd-pleasing pasta dish that’s perfect for fall? This Butternut Squash Fettuccine recipe is a versatile favorite that can be tailored to suit any dietary preference. Whether you prefer it creamy and vegan or rich and meaty, this recipe delivers on flavor, nutrition, and comfort.

The star of the dish is the roasted butternut squash, which blends into a silky sauce with a naturally sweet and nutty flavor. For a vegan version, add plant-based milk, nutritional yeast, and sautéed mushrooms for depth and creaminess. Prefer a meaty twist? Toss in crispy bacon, Italian sausage, or grilled chicken for a heartier option that’s packed with protein.

Butternut squash is not only delicious but also a powerhouse of nutrients, loaded with vitamin A, fiber, and antioxidants. Combined with tender fettuccine and your choice of add-ins, this recipe is as wholesome as it is satisfying.

Serve it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and vegan Parmesan or shredded cheese for the perfect finishing touch. Whether you’re meal prepping, hosting a dinner, or simply enjoying a quiet night at home, this Butternut Squash Fettuccine is the ultimate fall comfort food that everyone will love.

Note: Some links are part of an affiliate program, which means that if you click on a link and buy something, I might receive a percentage of the sale, at no extra cost to you.