Introduction

Butternut Squash Ravioli with Sage Brown Butter is a decadent yet comforting dish that embodies the flavors of fall. Silky pasta envelopes a creamy, subtly sweet butternut squash filling, while a nutty brown butter sauce infused with fresh sage adds richness and aromatic depth. The combination of sweet squash, savory butter, and earthy herbs creates a perfectly balanced dish that is both elegant and approachable.

This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or holiday feasts. It’s simple enough to prepare from store-bought ravioli but can also be made from scratch for a truly homemade experience. The vibrant golden squash filling paired with the fragrant sage butter makes each bite irresistible.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s comforting, flavorful, and festive all at once. The natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash pairs beautifully with the nutty richness of brown butter, while sage adds a warm, earthy note. It’s a dish that looks restaurant-worthy but is surprisingly simple to make, especially if you use pre-made ravioli.

It’s a go-to recipe for fall, combining seasonal produce with classic Italian flavors. Each bite is creamy, savory, and aromatic—making it a dish that’s both satisfying and memorable.

Why This is a Must-Try Dish

• Seasonal and comforting: Celebrates autumn flavors with squash and sage.
• Elegant yet approachable: Perfect for entertaining or weeknight dinners.
• Flavor-packed: Combines sweet, nutty, and earthy notes.
• Versatile: Works with store-bought or homemade ravioli.
• Quick preparation: Minimal hands-on time, especially with pre-made ravioli.

Recipe Overview

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes (20–30 minutes if making homemade ravioli)
• Cooking Time: 10–12 minutes
• Total Time: 25–45 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: ~450 calories per serving
• Course: Main / Pasta
• Cuisine: Italian / Fall-inspired

Ingredients

For the Filling (if making homemade ravioli):

• 1 small butternut squash (about 2 cups roasted and mashed)
• ½ cup ricotta cheese
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Ravioli:

• 12–16 fresh or store-bought butternut squash ravioli
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for browning)
• 8–10 fresh sage leaves
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional garnish: grated Parmesan cheese, toasted pine nuts

Cooking Directions

For Homemade Filling (Optional):

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut butternut squash in half, remove seeds, drizzle with olive oil, and roast cut-side down for 25–30 minutes until tender.
2. Scoop out roasted squash and mash until smooth.
3. Mix mashed squash with ricotta, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.

Cooking the Ravioli:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add ravioli and cook according to package instructions or until they float (3–5 minutes for fresh ravioli).
3. Drain gently and set aside.

Preparing Sage Brown Butter Sauce:

1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add sage leaves and cook 2–3 minutes until butter turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma.
3. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper.

Combining:

1. Gently toss cooked ravioli in the sage brown butter, coating each piece evenly.
2. Transfer to plates, drizzle with any remaining butter, and garnish with Parmesan or pine nuts if desired.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Roast and mash butternut squash if making homemade filling. Mix with ricotta, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
2. Boil water and cook ravioli until tender. Drain carefully.
3. Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add sage and cook until butter is golden brown.
4. Season butter with salt and pepper.
5. Toss ravioli in sage brown butter until coated.
6. Plate ravioli, drizzle remaining butter, and garnish with Parmesan or pine nuts.
7. Serve immediately.

How to Serve

• Serve as a main course with a simple green salad and crusty bread.
• Pair with a light white wine like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay.
• Great for holiday dinners, cozy fall evenings, or elegant weeknight meals.

Recipe Tips

• Use high-quality fresh sage for the best flavor.
• Brown butter slowly to avoid burning.
• Handle cooked ravioli gently to prevent tearing.
• Toast pine nuts for extra crunch and nuttiness.
• For extra richness, add a splash of cream to the brown butter sauce.

Variations

1. Cheese Variation: Add grated fontina or Parmesan to the filling for extra creaminess.
2. Nutty Variation: Sprinkle toasted walnuts or pecans over the plated dish.
3. Herb Variation: Add thyme or rosemary to the brown butter for a different flavor profile.
4. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the brown butter for warmth.
5. Vegan Option: Use vegan butter and a plant-based cheese substitute.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftover cooked ravioli in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: Freeze uncooked ravioli on a parchment-lined tray, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Cook from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to boiling time.
• Reheating: Gently reheat cooked ravioli in a skillet with leftover brown butter over low heat.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Skillet for brown butter sauce
• Baking sheet (if roasting squash)
• Mixing bowl for filling
• Spoon or spatula

FAQ

Q1: Can I use store-bought ravioli?
A: Yes, store-bought butternut squash ravioli works perfectly and reduces prep time.

Q2: Can I make the filling ahead?
A: Yes, prepare the squash filling up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate.

Q3: Can I use frozen ravioli?
A: Yes, cook directly from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to boiling time.

Q4: Can I add more vegetables to the filling?
A: Yes, roasted carrots or sweet potato can be blended into the squash for added flavor.

Q5: Can this be made vegan?
A: Yes, use vegan butter and a plant-based cheese substitute for the filling.

Conclusion

Butternut Squash Ravioli with Sage Brown Butter is a sophisticated yet comforting dish that highlights seasonal flavors with elegance and ease. The creamy squash filling, nutty brown butter, and fragrant sage create a perfect harmony of tastes and textures. Whether for a cozy weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or a holiday meal, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves rich, flavorful, and autumn-inspired pasta dishes.