Sweet Potato Goat Cheese Sage Pasta

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Golden, creamy sweet potato sauce clings to tender pasta, while pockets of tangy goat cheese and crispy sage leaves provide just the right contrast in every bite. This Sweet Potato Goat Cheese Sage Pasta is the kind of dish that turns a cozy dinner into a celebration of flavor, texture, and seasonal simplicity.

Whether you’re making it for a dinner party or a quick weekday indulgence, this recipe feels luxurious without being complicated. The rich natural sweetness of the sweet potato pairs beautifully with creamy goat cheese, while the fried sage and bits of crispy bacon (if you choose to add them) bring a savory crunch to elevate the whole dish.

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Why You’ll Love This Sweet Potato Goat Cheese Sage Pasta

• Unexpected flavor harmony: The sweet-savory combo of sweet potato and goat cheese is a culinary match made in heaven.
• Perfect for fall & winter: These ingredients shine in cooler months, bringing warmth and depth to your table.
• Elevated, yet easy: Looks gourmet, but comes together in under 40 minutes.
• Vegetarian-friendly: Simply skip the bacon, and you’ve got a hearty, meat-free meal.
• Customizable: Add pancetta, walnuts, or even caramelized onions to make it your own.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Creating this pasta dish is all about smooth blending, crisp textures, and silky finishes. Here’s what you’ll want on hand:

• Large Pot: For boiling the pasta evenly without sticking.
• Blender or Food Processor: Essential for pureeing the roasted sweet potatoes into a silky sauce.
• Saute Pan: To crisp up the sage leaves and optionally fry the bacon.
• Sheet Pan: For roasting the sweet potatoes to caramelized perfection.
• Rubber Spatula or Wooden Spoon: Helps to combine everything without breaking the pasta.
• Fine Mesh Sieve (Optional): If you want an ultra-smooth sauce, this tool can help strain the puree.

Roasting and blending are the heart of this recipe. Take care during these steps and the rest is a breeze.

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Ingredients for the Sweet Potato Goat Cheese Sage Pasta

• Sweet Potatoes: The backbone of the sauce, lending a natural sweetness and velvety texture.
• Goat Cheese: Adds a creamy, tangy punch that balances the sweetness of the potatoes.
• Fresh Sage Leaves: When fried, these become crispy and aromatic, providing an earthy depth.
• Pasta (Rigatoni or Penne): Ideal for holding onto the sauce in their grooves.
• Garlic: Roasted or sautéed, it deepens the flavor of the sauce.
• Vegetable or Chicken Broth: Thins out the puree into a pourable, silky consistency.
• Olive Oil: Used for roasting and frying; choose a good quality extra virgin for best flavor.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning the potatoes, sauce, and finished dish.
• Optional: Bacon or Pancetta: Adds a savory crunch and smoky flavor if desired.

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How To Make the Sweet Potato Goat Cheese Sage Pasta

Step 1: Roast the Sweet Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel and cube the sweet potatoes, toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast on a sheet pan for 25-30 minutes until soft and caramelized on the edges.

Step 2: Fry the Sage Leaves

While the potatoes roast, heat olive oil in a pan and fry sage leaves for 10-15 seconds until crispy. Remove and let them drain on paper towels.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.

Step 4: Blend the Sauce

In a blender or food processor, combine roasted sweet potatoes, a splash of broth, garlic, and a little reserved pasta water. Blend until smooth. Adjust thickness by adding more broth if needed.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Return pasta to the pot or a large pan. Pour in the sweet potato sauce, stir to coat evenly. Fold in goat cheese crumbles (reserving some for garnish). Heat gently. Serve topped with crispy sage leaves and more goat cheese. Optionally, add bacon or pancetta crumbles.

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Serving & Storing Your Pasta Masterpiece

Serve this dish warm, topped with fresh goat cheese crumbles and crispy sage right before eating for the perfect contrast of textures. A drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add an extra pop.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk to bring the sauce back to life. Avoid freezing, as the sauce texture may change.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this vegan?

Replace goat cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative and ensure your pasta and broth are vegan. Use coconut cream for a richer sauce texture.

Can I prep this ahead of time?

Yes! Roast and blend the sweet potato sauce a day in advance. Store it in the fridge and reheat gently before mixing with pasta.

What other herbs can I use instead of sage?

Thyme or rosemary can work, though they won’t have the same crispiness. Sage is preferred for that earthy, fried-leaf crunch.

Is it possible to use canned sweet potato puree?

It is, but roasting fresh sweet potatoes offers a more robust and caramelized flavor.

What kind of pasta works best?

Short pasta like rigatoni, penne, or even shells hold the sauce beautifully. You can also use gluten-free pasta.

Can I add protein?

Absolutely! Crispy bacon, pancetta, or even sautéed chicken or chickpeas work well here.

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Want More Pasta Ideas with Comforting Flavor?

If this Sweet Potato Goat Cheese Sage Pasta hit the spot, here are more cozy pasta dishes from the Kitchen by Kate collection:

• Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni for a hearty beef twist.
• Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta if you like spice with your creaminess.
• Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole for a baked, cheesy indulgence.
• Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti packed with creamy, cheesy goodness.
• One Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta for smoky-sweet satisfaction.

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Let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you crisp the sage or try a new herb? Did you crumble in bacon or go vegetarian?

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