Roasted Butternut Squash Alfredo with Candied Bacon
This cozy pasta dish combines silky roasted butternut squash with a creamy cheese sauce and crispy candied bacon.
recipesbynani.comThere is nothing quite like a warm bowl of creamy pasta when the temperature drops. This recipe brings together sweet roasted butternut squash and a rich sauce made with butter, sage, and plenty of cheese to create the ultimate comfort food.
The secret to this dish is the contrast between the smooth sauce and the salty, crunchy candied bacon on top. It is a favorite in my kitchen whenever the leaves start to turn and we want something extra satisfying for dinner.
🧺 Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 8 strips of bacon
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 pound fettuccine or your favorite pasta
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded gouda cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
👩🍳Instructions
- 1
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
- 2
Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for about 25 to 30 minutes until tender.
- 3
While the squash roasts, lay the bacon on a separate lined baking sheet and sprinkle it with brown sugar. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until crispy, then set aside to cool and chop into bite sized pieces.
- 4
Cook your pasta in a large pot of salted water according to the package directions. Reserve half a cup of the pasta water before draining.
- 5
Once the squash is done, mash it with a fork or puree it in a blender until smooth.
- 6
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sage and cook for one minute. Stir in the heavy cream and the squash puree until well combined.
- 7
Add the parmesan and gouda cheeses to the sauce, stirring until the sauce is smooth and melted.
- 8
Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water if needed to reach your desired consistency.
- 9
Serve warm topped with the candied bacon pieces.
💡 Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To keep the bacon crispy, store it separately from the pasta and add it right before you serve your reheated bowl.
Made this recipe? Let us know how it went.
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