Are you tired of boring, bland sauces that leave your taste buds begging for more? Get ready to discover the ultimate game-changer in your culinary repertoire! This Easy Butternut Squash Sauce is about to revolutionize your cooking, bringing restaurant-quality flavor right to your home kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you'll create a luxuriously smooth, velvety sauce that will have everyone asking, "What's your secret?"
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Carefully cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp using a spoon.
- Drizzle the squash halves with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then season with salt and pepper. Place the squash cut-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Roast the squash in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- Remove the squash from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes until it's safe to handle.
- Scoop out the roasted squash flesh from the skin using a spoon, discarding the skin.
- In a large skillet, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30-60 seconds until fragrant.
- Transfer the roasted squash to the skillet. Add vegetable broth and use an immersion blender or regular blender to puree until smooth.
- Stir in the heavy cream, and continue to cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- If the sauce is too thick, gradually add more vegetable broth until you reach the desired consistency.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh chopped basil before serving.
Tips
- Choose a ripe butternut squash: Look for a squash with a deep, matte color and no soft spots or blemishes.
- Roasting is key: Don't rush the roasting process. This step develops deep, caramelized flavors that make the sauce extraordinary.
- Consistency matters: If your sauce is too thick, gradually add vegetable broth. If too thin, continue simmering to reduce.
- Customize your flavor: Experiment with adding a pinch of nutmeg, sage, or red pepper flakes for a unique twist.
- Make ahead friendly: This sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, making it perfect for meal prep.
- Versatility tip: Use this sauce not just for pasta, but as a base for soups, as a pizza sauce, or even as a delicious dip!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 15mg
