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Winter Squash and Spinach Pasta Bake


  • Author: Shirley
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pasta Bake

  • 12 oz rigatoni or penne pasta
  • 3 cups cubed winter squash (butternut, acorn, or kabocha)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 3 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried sage
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1½ cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Roast Squash: Place the cubed squash on a baking sheet. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast for 20 minutes until tender and golden. Set aside.

Cook the Pasta

  1. Boil Pasta: Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the Sauce

  1. Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add the garlic, thyme, and sage, cooking for another minute.
  2. Create Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir for 1 minute.
  3. Add Milk and Cream: Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens. Season with salt and pepper.

Assemble the Bake

  1. Combine Pasta and Spinach: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, roasted squash, and fresh spinach. Pour in the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
  2. Transfer to Baking Dish: Spread the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top.

Bake and Serve

  1. Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
  2. Serve: Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 55 minutes

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6 servings
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Fat: 20g
  • Carbohydrates: 55g
  • Protein: 18g