Imagine a dish that combines the rich, nutty flavor of brown butter, the creamy sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes, and the comforting embrace of perfectly baked pasta - all in one incredible recipe! This Brown Butter Sweet Potato Baked Pasta is not just a meal; it's a culinary experience that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary feast that will have your family and friends begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked pasta
- 2 cups sweet potato, roasted and mashed
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon sage, dried
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or butter.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Continue cooking the butter, swirling the pan occasionally, until it turns a golden brown color and develops a nutty aroma. This process typically takes 3-4 minutes.
- Remove the brown butter from heat and stir in the dried sage, allowing the herbs to infuse into the butter.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, roasted and mashed sweet potato, ricotta cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Pour the brown butter sage mixture over the pasta and sweet potato mixture, stirring gently to distribute evenly.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are slightly crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle and the pasta to set.
- Serve hot, garnishing with additional fresh sage or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips
- Brown Butter Mastery: Watch your butter carefully while browning. The difference between perfectly nutty brown butter and burnt butter is just seconds!
- Sweet Potato Prep: Roast your sweet potatoes in advance to save time and enhance their natural sweetness. A little caramelization goes a long way.
- Cheese Selection: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and melting properties. Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
- Even Baking: Spread the pasta mixture evenly in the baking dish to ensure consistent cooking and golden-brown edges.
- Resting Time Matters: Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after baking. This helps the ingredients set and makes serving easier.
- Herb Enhancement: If possible, use fresh sage instead of dried for a more vibrant flavor profile.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This dish can be prepared in advance and refrigerated, then baked just before serving - perfect for meal prep or entertaining!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 35mg
