Crock Pot Butternut Squash Pasta Sauce
This Crock Pot Butternut Squash Sauce recipe is going to knock your socks off! It has a deep rich flavor you wont find in any other homemade sauce recipe.
This Crock Pot Butternut Squash Sauce recipe is going to knock your socks off! It has a deep rich flavor you wont find in any other homemade sauce recipe.
- Carbohydrate 10.270598004629 g
- Cholesterol 15.2515625065405 mg
- Fat 5.98735194204497 g
- Fiber 2.10659129769141 g
- Protein 2.21920899775503 g
- Saturated Fat 3.69706636601367 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (306g)
- Sodium 965.103004675549 mg
- Sugar 8.16400670693758 g
- Trans Fat 0.471175275467004 g
- Calories 95 calories
Step-by-step
- In a skillet melt the butter and saute the bell pepper, onion, garlic, salt and pepper until the vegetables are translucent and very soft.
- Pour into the crock pot.
- Add the cooked butternut squash, tomato paste and water to the crock pot.
- Sprinkle the sugar over the top.
- Stir to mix well.
- Place the cover on the slow cooker and turn the heat to low.
- Slow cook for 8 hours if using cubed butternut squash. If using mashed butternut squash cook for 6 hours.
- Once the sauce has simmered and has thickened if you used cubed butternut squash scoop the solids from the slow cooker and puree in a blender.
- Pour the puree back into the crock pot and mix well.
- If the sauce is not thick enough for your liking turn the crock pot heat up to high and prop the lid so it is slightly ajar and there is room for the steam to escape. Continue cooking for another hour or so or until the sauce has thickened to your liking.
- Turn the slow cooker off and allow the sauce to cool.
- Once cool, if not using immediately transfer the butternut squash sauce to storage containers.
- Can be frozen in portion size to use another day.
- Makes about 4 cups of butternut squash pasta sauce.
My Simple, Flavorful Crock-Pot Butternut Squash Pasta Sauce
As a busy mom, finding time to cook delicious, healthy meals can feel like a constant uphill battle. Between school pick-ups, soccer practice, and work deadlines, my evenings often feel more like a whirlwind than a relaxing dinner prep session. That's why I'm so passionate about finding recipes that are both flavorful and incredibly easy, and this Crock-Pot Butternut Squash Pasta Sauce has become a lifesaver. It's the perfect example of "set it and forget it" cooking at its finest. The slow cooker does all the work, leaving me free to focus on other things. This sauce is so versatile; I’ve used it on everything from simple pasta dishes to topping roasted chicken or even as a base for a hearty soup.
The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its convenience but also in its incredible depth of flavor. The butternut squash lends a naturally sweet and subtly earthy note, perfectly complemented by the savory tang of tomato paste and the gentle warmth of garlic and onion. It's a rich and satisfying sauce that feels luxurious without requiring hours of tedious cooking. The best part? The cleanup is a breeze! Simply dump the ingredients into the slow cooker, set it, and forget about it until dinner time. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a sauce that is far more complex and delicious than you’d expect from such a simple recipe. Believe me, this one is a keeper.
Ingredients that Make a Difference: I’ve experimented with different versions of this recipe over the years, and I've found that using high-quality ingredients really does make a difference. Fresh, seasonal butternut squash is ideal, but you can also use pre-cut or frozen. Just ensure it’s cooked through before adding it to the slow cooker. I prefer using good quality tomato paste, as its richer flavor will enhance the overall taste of the sauce. Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings to your taste; a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs (like basil or thyme) at the end will elevate the flavors even further.
Beyond Pasta: While this sauce is undeniably delicious over pasta, its versatility extends far beyond that. It makes a fantastic topping for grilled chicken or fish. It works beautifully stirred into risotto or polenta. It can also be used as the base for a creamy soup by simply adding some vegetable broth or cream. Get creative! The possibilities are truly endless. I encourage you to try adding some pan-sautéed mushrooms or Italian sausage for an even richer, heartier flavor.
Making it Your Own: I love the simplicity of this recipe, but I also encourage you to experiment and make it your own! Add some chopped carrots or zucchini for extra vegetables. Try different types of onions like shallots or red onions for a more pronounced flavor. A dash of balsamic vinegar adds a pleasant acidity, balancing the sweetness of the butternut squash. You can also add a tablespoon or two of your favorite pesto for an herby twist. The possibilities are endless!
Meal Prep Magic: This recipe is a perfect solution for meal prepping. Make a large batch on the weekend and store it in the freezer for quick and easy weeknight dinners. Just thaw it out, reheat it, and toss it with your favorite pasta or use it in one of the many other creative ways I’ve suggested.
In a world where time is often our most precious commodity, finding recipes that are both easy and delicious is a true gift. This Crock-Pot Butternut Squash Pasta Sauce is just that—a gift of flavor, convenience, and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones. So go ahead, give it a try! I promise you won’t be disappointed.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve over your favorite pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, penne all work well).
- Top grilled chicken or fish.
- Stir into risotto or polenta.
- Use as a base for a hearty soup.
- Serve as a dip with crusty bread.
- Add to stuffed shells or manicotti.
