Creamy Butternut Squash Rigatoni Bake
Creamy Butternut Squash Rigatoni Bake is a wonderful blend of butternut squash, herb, spices, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes and creamy cheeses in a delicate, yet hearty dish.
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups cubed butternut squash
- 1 shallot halved
- 6-10 garlic cloves smashed
- 2 tablespoons fresh oregano leaves
- Pinch of chili flakes
- Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 pound rigatoni or other short-cut pasta
- 1 cup milk or cream
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1/2 cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded Gouda cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded Fontina or Provolone cheese
Instructions
Roast the Vegetables:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- On a baking sheet, toss together the olive oil, butternut squash, shallot, garlic, oregano, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly and roast for 20-25 minutes until the squash is tender.
Make the Butternut Squash Puree:
- Remove the garlic cloves from their skins and transfer them along with the roasted squash, shallot, and ricotta to a food processor. Blend until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cook the Pasta:
- In a large, oven-safe skillet with sides, bring 3 1/2 cups of water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook, stirring often, for about 8 minutes or until al dente.
Combine the Ingredients:
- Stir the butternut squash puree into the cooked pasta. Add the milk or cream, Italian seasoning, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes, mixing until combined.
- Stir in the Gouda and Parmesan cheeses until melted and creamy.
Bake the Dish:
- Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the Fontina cheese evenly over the top. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with additional oregano or Parmesan if desired. Dig in and savor the cheesy, creamy goodness!
Notes:
- Substitute any of the cheeses with your favorites, such as mozzarella or Gruyère.
- Add protein like cooked chicken or crispy bacon for a heartier dish.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
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