Grilled Cheese Social Baked Feta Butternut Squash Pasta

Grilled cheese social baked feta butternut squash pasta is a delightful combination of creamy feta, roasted butternut squash, and al dente pasta, creating a comforting and flavorful dish. This viral recipe from Grilled Cheese Social has taken the internet by storm, and for good reason—it’s simple, delicious, and perfect for cozy meals. Grilled cheese social baked feta butternut squash pasta

Whether you’re a fan of the original TikTok baked feta pasta or looking for a fall-inspired twist, this recipe is a must-try. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything from ingredients to serving tips while ensuring your dish turns out perfect every time!

Why You’ll Love Grilled cheese social baked feta butternut squash pasta

1. Creamy, Savory, and Slightly Sweet Flavors

Grilled cheese social baked feta butternut squash pasta

The combination of roasted butternut squash, creamy baked feta, and aromatic sage creates an irresistible flavor balance. The sweetness of the squash perfectly complements the tangy, salty feta, making every bite rich and satisfying.

2. Easy to Make with Simple Ingredients

Grilled cheese social baked feta butternut squash pasta

This recipe is perfect for beginners or those who love quick and effortless cooking. With just a handful of ingredients, most of which you may already have in your pantry, you can whip up a gourmet-style meal in under an hour.

3. Perfect for Fall and Cozy Meals

Grilled cheese social baked feta butternut squash pasta

When the weather gets cooler, there’s nothing better than a warm and creamy butternut squash pasta. This dish is ideal for fall gatherings, holiday dinners, or a comforting weeknight meal that brings a taste of the season to your table.

Ingredients & Substitutions (Grilled cheese social baked feta butternut squash pasta)

Essential Ingredients: (Grilled cheese social baked feta butternut squash pasta)

To make this delicious pasta, you’ll need the following:

• Butternut Squash – Roasted until caramelized and tender, adding natural sweetness.
• Feta Cheese – A block of feta (not crumbled) works best for achieving a creamy sauce.
• Pasta – Short pasta like rigatoni, penne, or fusilli holds the sauce beautifully.
• Garlic – Enhances the overall depth of flavor.
• Olive Oil – Helps roast the squash and blend the sauce.
• Sage – Adds warmth and an earthy note that pairs perfectly with squash.
• Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning.
• Red Pepper Flakes (Optional) – For a little heat.

Substitutions: (Grilled cheese social baked feta butternut squash pasta)

• Swap feta cheese with goat cheese or ricotta for a different texture.
• Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for dietary preferences.
• Substitute sage with rosemary or thyme if you prefer different herbs.

How to Make Baked Feta Butternut Squash Pasta

This pasta dish comes together in just a few simple steps!

Preparing the Butternut Squash (Grilled cheese social baked feta butternut squash pasta0

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Peel and cube the butternut squash into bite-sized pieces.
3. Toss the squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and spread it on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 25-30 minutes until soft and slightly caramelized.

Baking the Feta & Squash

1. In the center of the baking sheet, place the block of feta cheese surrounded by roasted squash.
2. Drizzle extra olive oil and sprinkle with red pepper flakes (optional).
3. Return to the oven and bake for 15 minutes until the feta is soft and slightly golden.

Mixing the Pasta Sauce

1. Once baked, mash the feta with a fork and mix it with the roasted butternut squash.
2. Add minced garlic and chopped sage, stirring to blend the flavors.
3. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to create a silky sauce.

Adding the Pasta & Finishing Touches

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain and mix it into the creamy baked feta and squash mixture.
3. Garnish with fresh sage leaves and an extra drizzle of olive oil.

Serving & Pairing Suggestions (Grilled cheese social baked feta butternut squash pasta)

This dish is versatile and pairs well with various sides and drinks:

• Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
• Pair with white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay to enhance the flavors.
• Add protein by topping with grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy chickpeas for a plant-based option.

Storage & Meal Prep Tips (Grilled cheese social baked feta butternut squash pasta)

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk or pasta water to revive the creamy texture.
• Freeze the butternut squash sauce separately and mix it with fresh pasta when ready to serve.

Variations & Adaptations

Grilled cheese social baked feta butternut squash pasta

• Make it vegan by using dairy-free feta and nutritional yeast.
• Try a different cheese like blue cheese or Parmesan for a unique twist.
• Use sweet potatoes instead of butternut squash for a similar flavor profile.

More Baked Feta Pasta Inspired Recipes

Grilled cheese social baked feta butternut squash pasta

If you loved this dish, try these other baked feta pasta variations:

• Baked Feta Spaghetti Squash – A low-carb, gluten-free alternative.
• Tomato & Basil Baked Feta Pasta – The viral classic that started it all!
• Mushroom & Spinach Feta Pasta – A vegetarian delight packed with umami.

Recipe Card

Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet
• Large pot
• Mixing spoon
• Fork (for mashing feta)

Ingredients (1x, 2x, 3x scaling)

• 1 small butternut squash
• 1 block of feta cheese
• 2 cups pasta of choice
• 3 cloves garlic
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp pepper
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tbsp fresh sage, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the cubed butternut squash for 25 minutes.
3. Add a block of feta to the baking dish and bake for 15 more minutes.
4. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
5. Mash the feta and squash, mix in garlic, sage, and pasta.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!

Storage & Meal Prep Tips

Proper storage and meal prep techniques will help you enjoy your Grilled Cheese Social Baked Feta Butternut Squash Pasta for days while maintaining its delicious flavors and texture.

How to Store Leftovers (Grilled cheese social baked feta butternut squash pasta)

If you have leftovers, follow these tips to keep your pasta fresh:

• Cool Completely: Let the pasta cool to room temperature before storing to prevent condensation buildup.
• Use an Airtight Container: Store in an airtight container to retain moisture and prevent drying out.
• Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for 3-4 days for the best taste and texture.
• Keep Sauce & Pasta Separate: If you plan on storing for meal prep, consider keeping the sauce separate from the pasta to prevent sogginess.

Freezing and Reheating Options (Grilled cheese social baked feta butternut squash pasta)

If you want to make this dish ahead or save leftovers for a later date, here’s how to freeze and reheat it properly.

Freezing Instructions

✅ For Best Results: Freeze the feta and butternut squash sauce separately from the pasta.

• Let the sauce cool completely.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag (removing as much air as possible).
• Store for up to 3 months.
• If freezing the pasta, slightly undercook it before freezing to prevent mushiness upon reheating.

Reheating Options

🔥 From the Fridge:

• Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until heated through.
• Or reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

❄️ From the Freezer:

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• If frozen as a whole dish, reheat in a covered oven-safe dish at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.

Variations & Adaptations

This baked feta butternut squash pasta is delicious as is, but you can customize it to fit different diets and preferences.

Vegan and Gluten-Free Options

✅ Make It Vegan

• Swap out feta cheese for a plant-based feta alternative or a homemade blend of cashews, nutritional yeast, and lemon juice for creaminess.
• Use vegan butter or extra olive oil instead of traditional butter.
• Choose egg-free pasta or opt for zucchini noodles.

✅ Make It Gluten-Free

• Use gluten-free pasta made from chickpeas, quinoa, or rice.
• For a low-carb option, swap pasta with spaghetti squash or cauliflower rice.

Adding Proteins or Extra Veggies

Want to boost the nutrition or add variety to this dish? Try these high-protein and veggie-packed variations:

🥩 Protein Additions:

• Grilled Chicken or Shrimp: Adds a hearty protein boost.
• Crispy Chickpeas: Keeps it vegetarian while adding crunch.
• Tofu or Tempeh: Perfect for plant-based protein.

🥦 Extra Veggies to Try:

• Spinach or Kale: Stir in fresh greens at the end for added nutrients.
• Mushrooms: Adds an umami-rich depth to the dish.
• Bell Peppers or Cherry Tomatoes: Enhance sweetness and color.

More Baked Feta Pasta Inspired Recipes

If you love the Grilled Cheese Social Baked Feta Butternut Squash Pasta, you’ll definitely want to try these other delicious variations!

Other Delicious Variations You Might Enjoy

🔥 1. Classic Baked Feta Pasta

• The original viral recipe that started it all!
• Uses cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, garlic, and olive oil to create a creamy, tangy sauce.

🥬 2. Baked Feta Spinach & Artichoke Pasta

• Inspired by spinach-artichoke dip, this version includes sautéed spinach, canned artichoke hearts, and feta cheese.

🌶 3. Spicy Baked Feta Pasta

• A fiery twist on the original with Calabrian chilis, red pepper flakes, and spicy Italian sausage.

🍠 4. Sweet Potato & Baked Feta Pasta

• Uses roasted sweet potatoes for a slightly caramelized, sweet, and earthy flavor.

🍄 5. Mushroom & Truffle Baked Feta Pasta

• Features wild mushrooms, truffle oil, and feta cheese for a rich, umami-packed dish.

Recipe Card

This easy-to-follow recipe card will help you recreate this delicious, creamy baked feta butternut squash pasta at home.

Equipment Needed

Before you start cooking, gather the following kitchen essentials:

• Baking Dish – To bake the feta and butternut squash together.
• Large Pot – For cooking pasta.
• Sharp Knife & Cutting Board – To prep the squash and other ingredients.
• Mixing Spoon – To stir the sauce and pasta together.
• Fork or Potato Masher – To mash the baked feta and squash into a creamy sauce.

Ingredients (1x, 2x, 3x Scaling)

Base Ingredients (1x – Serves 4)

• 1 small butternut squash (cubed, about 2 cups)
• 1 block feta cheese (8 oz)
• 8 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli)
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves (minced or whole, roasted with squash)
• 6 fresh sage leaves (chopped, plus extra for garnish)
• ½ tsp salt & ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• ¼ cup reserved pasta water

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare & Roast the Butternut Squash

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Peel and cut the butternut squash into 1-inch cubes.
3. Toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
4. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes until tender.

Step 2: Bake the Feta & Squash Together

1. Place the block of feta in the center of a baking dish.
2. Surround it with roasted butternut squash and garlic cloves.
3. Drizzle with extra olive oil and add fresh sage leaves.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

1. Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente.
2. Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

Step 4: Mash & Mix the Sauce

1. Remove the feta and squash from the oven.
2. Mash them together into a creamy sauce.
3. Add reserved pasta water if needed.

Step 5: Combine & Serve

1. Add pasta to the sauce and toss well.
2. Serve warm and enjoy!

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