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Creamy Butternut Squash Rigatoni Bake

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.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Italian
Servings 6 to 8 Servings

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.
Keyword #northeastnosh #buttenutsquash #rigatonibaked #creamypasta #pastacasserole #comfortfood #food #foodie #sundriedtomatoes #spinach
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