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Butternut Squash Pasta Shells Baked Skillet

Butternut Squash Pasta Shells Baked Skillet
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Butternut Squash Pasta Shells Baked Skillet is a cozy, nutritious, and flavorful meal combining tender pasta shells filled with sweet roasted butternut squash, sautéed aromatics, and a melty cheese blend, all baked to bubbly golden perfection in one pan. This family-friendly dish offers effortless comfort food perfect for weeknights, with variations to suit vegan, spicy, or protein-enhanced preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

  • 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed (about 4 cups)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
  • Fresh herbs (sage, thyme, or rosemary), 1-2 teaspoons chopped

Pasta

  • 12 oz medium or large pasta shells

Cheese

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • Optional: 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Liquids and Oils

  • 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided (for roasting and sautéing)

Seasonings

  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Roast the Butternut Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel, cube, and toss the butternut squash with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, pepper, and chopped fresh herbs of your choice. Spread the squash in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and caramelized. This step enhances the natural sweetness and softens the squash for the filling.
  2. Cook the Pasta Shells: While the squash roasts, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook until just al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside. Undercooking slightly prevents mushiness after baking.
  3. Sauté Aromatics and Prepare Sauce: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the roasted butternut squash to the skillet, then pour in the vegetable or chicken broth. Stir gently to combine and create a light sauce that keeps the dish moist during baking.
  4. Combine Pasta, Squash, and Cheese: Add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet, gently stirring to coat each shell evenly with the squash mixture. Sprinkle in half of your cheese blend (mozzarella, parmesan, and cheddar if using), folding it carefully into the mixture for uniform melting and flavor distribution.
  5. Bake Until Bubbling and Golden: Evenly top the skillet with the remaining cheese. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. Serve warm and enjoy the creamy pasta combined with the rich flavors of butternut squash.

Notes

  • Don’t overcook pasta to maintain a firm texture after baking.
  • Prefer fresh butternut squash over canned for best flavor and texture.
  • Cut squash into uniform cubes to ensure even roasting and caramelization.
  • Choose cheeses that melt well for creamy, non-greasy results.
  • Use an oven-safe skillet with a heavy bottom to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
  • Fresh herbs like sage and thyme enhance the dish’s warm, autumnal flavors.

Nutrition

Keywords: butternut squash, pasta shells, baked pasta, comfort food, vegetarian, cheesy skillet, autumn recipe

Find it online: https://emillycooks.com/butternut-squash-pasta-shells-baked-skillet/