One-Pan Brown Butter and Sage Pasta Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with this delightful and easy-to-make dish, the One-Pan Brown Butter and Sage Pasta. This is the kind of meal that makes you look like a culinary genius with minimal effort, all in about 25 minutes. The savory flavors of brown butter, aromatic sage, and a zest of lemon turn simple ingredients into a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: With only one pan and 25 minutes, you’ll have dinner ready in no time.
  • Rich, Complex Flavors: The nutty brown butter paired with fresh sage creates depth and sophistication with minimal ingredients.
  • Versatile: Easily customizable to suit dietary preferences or what’s in your pantry.
  • Minimal Cleanup: Save time on dishes with this all-in-one pan solution.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This dish is a testament to the beauty of simplicity: a handful of ingredients that shine on their own and combine to create something extraordinary. Each element brings its unique flavor and texture, making the One-Pan Brown Butter and Sage Pasta taste like more than the sum of its parts.

  • Barilla® Pronto Pasta: The convenience of no-drain pasta makes cooking fast and efficient.
  • Butter: The base for a rich, nutty brown butter that elevates every ingredient it touches.
  • Fresh Sage: Adds an earthy aroma that pairs perfectly with the brown butter.
  • White Button Mushrooms: Their umami flavor deepens the savory notes of the dish.
  • Fresh Spinach: A pop of color and a deliciously wilted texture once cooked.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: Adds a hint of heat that you can adjust to taste.
  • Fresh Lemon Juice: Brightens the overall flavor, cutting through the richness.
  • Fresh Grated Cheese: A finishing touch that adds creaminess and depth.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

This recipe is a canvas for your culinary creativity. Feel free to adapt and modify the ingredients to suit dietary needs or personal taste preferences. The One-Pan Brown Butter and Sage Pasta can easily transform into something uniquely yours.

  • Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp for a more filling meal.
  • Vegetarian Delight: Swap mushrooms and spinach for zucchini and sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor profile.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to cater to dietary restrictions without losing flavor.

How to Make One-Pan Brown Butter and Sage Pasta

Step 1: Brown the Butter

Begin by melting the butter and olive oil together in a large cast iron pan over medium heat. Allow the butter to brown slightly, creating a deep, nutty aroma. Watch carefully to prevent burning, which can happen quickly—this will take about 5-6 minutes.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Once your butter is perfectly browned, add the garlic, sage, and mushrooms. Let the mushrooms release their moisture and reduce in size, then toss in the spinach. Sauté until wilted, about 3-5 minutes, seasoning with salt, red pepper flakes, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to taste.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Transfer the sautéed vegetables to a plate and in the same pan, add the Barilla® Pronto Pasta, along with water and a pinch of salt. Let it simmer for around 10 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the pasta is perfectly al dente.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Return the mushroom and spinach mixture to the pan, mixing everything well with the pasta and brown butter sauce. Serve hot, with a generous grating of fresh cheese and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you prefer!

Pro Tips for Making One-Pan Brown Butter and Sage Pasta

  • Butter Browning Mastery: Watch the butter closely as it browns! Remove it from the heat once it turns golden with brown specks to prevent it from burning.
  • Spinach Timing: Add spinach at the last minute to preserve its vibrant color and tender texture.
  • Lemon Zest Lift: A zest of lemon alongside the juice can add more brightness to your dish.
  • Fresh Cheese Finish: Always grate cheese freshly over the dish to add creaminess and enhance all other flavors.

How to Serve One-Pan Brown Butter and Sage Pasta

One-Pan Brown Butter and Sage Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Top your pasta with some freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese for a classic richness. If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch more red pepper flakes or even some freshly cracked black pepper.

Side Dishes

A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs wonderfully, providing a refreshing contrast to the savory pasta. Consider serving with a crusty artisan bread to soak up any remaining sauce—it’s a match made in heaven!

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this pasta in deep, wide bowls for a cozy, inviting experience. You can garnish with whole fresh sage leaves to highlight the theme of the dish. For a touch of color, a little lemon zest sprinkled on top is both beautiful and flavorful.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making it perfect for meal prep or quick lunches.

Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta. Divide into individual portions and freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags. It will keep well for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat the pasta gently in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce as needed. Or, simply microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure it heats evenly.

FAQs

  1. Can I use dried sage instead of fresh?

    Yes, but use it sparingly. Dried sage is more potent, so start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste.

  2. What can I use instead of lemon juice?

    If you’re out of lemons, a splash of white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can provide the needed acidity.

  3. Is there a cheese-free option?

    Certainly! Nutritional yeast can offer a cheesy flavor without dairy.

  4. How can I make it spicier?

    Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for more heat.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a quick, hearty meal packed with flavor, the One-Pan Brown Butter and Sage Pasta is your go-to recipe. Try it out, and it just might become a staple in your home. Happy cooking!

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One-Pan Brown Butter and Sage Pasta Recipe

One-Pan Brown Butter and Sage Pasta Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.4 from 57 reviews
  • Author: Emily
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Description

A quick and savory one-pan pasta that combines nutty brown butter, fragrant sage, and sautéed mushrooms with fresh spinach and a bright lemon finish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this recipe uses a single skillet for easy cleanup and maximum flavor.


Ingredients

Units Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 8 ounces Barilla® Pronto Pasta (Penne)

Butter and Oils

  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Herbs and Seasonings

  • 2 sprigs fresh sage
  • Salt to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • Juice of 1 fresh lemon

Vegetables

  • 8 ounces white button mushrooms
  • 2 cups fresh spinach

Garlic and Cheese

  • 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
  • Fresh grated cheese (Parmigiano-Reggiano or Pecorino Romano)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Brown Butter and Sage: In a large cast iron pan, melt the butter and olive oil together over medium heat. Reduce the heat slightly and let the mixture brown, which should take about 5-6 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent burning, as the butter will develop a nutty aroma and amber color.
  2. Cook the Aromatics and Vegetables: Add the chopped garlic, fresh sage, and sliced mushrooms to the pan. Sauté until the mushrooms release their moisture, shrink, and become tender, about 7 minutes. Then, add the spinach and cook until wilted, approximately 3-5 minutes. Season with salt, red pepper flakes, and squeeze in the lemon juice.
  3. Cook the Pasta: Transfer the mushroom and spinach mixture to a serving plate and set aside. In the same pan, add the dry pasta along with 3 cups of water and a generous pinch of salt. Bring to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes until the water is absorbed and the pasta is al dente.
  4. Combine and Finish: Return the sautéed vegetables to the pan with the cooked pasta and brown butter sauce. Toss everything together gently to combine, allowing the flavors to meld. Adjust seasoning if needed.
  5. Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with freshly grated cheese and additional red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Use fresh sage for the most fragrant flavor; dried sage can be used but won’t be as vibrant.
  • Ensure you watch the butter carefully during browning to prevent burning and develop a rich, nutty flavor.
  • Feel free to substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or a cheese of your choice.
  • This dish is best enjoyed immediately but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 day; reheat gently to prevent the pasta from drying out.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate
  • Calories: 480 kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 520 mg
  • Fat: 27 g
  • Saturated Fat: 14 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 49 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 14 g
  • Cholesterol: 60 mg

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