Baked 4 Cheese Butternut Squash Rigatoni for Cozy Comfort Food

Name: Baked 4 Cheese Butternut Squash Rigatoni
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil; 2 cups cubed butternut squash; 1 shallot, halved; 6-10 cloves garlic, smashed; 2 tablespoon fresh oregano leaves; chili flakes (to taste); kosher salt (to taste); black pepper (to taste); 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 pound rigatoni or other short cut pasta; 1 cup milk or cream; 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning; 2 cups fresh baby spinach; 1/2 cup oil packed sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 1/2 cup shredded gouda cheese; 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese; 1 cup shredded fontina or provolone cheese

Published: October 6, 2025

by Grace Bennett

Why You'll Love This Baked 4 Cheese Butternut Squash Rigatoni

This incredible Baked 4 Cheese Butternut Squash Rigatoni transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

Ingredients for Baked 4 Cheese Butternut Squash Rigatoni

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Baked 4 Cheese Butternut Squash Rigatoni:

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil – This adds flavor and helps sauté the veggies perfectly for roasting.

2 cups cubed butternut squash – The star of the show, bringing in that sweet, nutty flavor and a silky texture once cooked.

1 shallot, halved – Adds a mild onion flavor that enhances the dish without overpowering the squash.

6-10 cloves garlic, smashed – Because garlic makes everything better, giving a fragrant aroma as it roasts.

2 tablespoons fresh oregano leaves – Fresh herbs brighten up and complement the richness of the cheeses.

Chili flakes – Just a pinch adds a warm kick to the dish.

Kosher salt – Essential for enhancing all the flavors.

Black pepper – Freshly ground for a bit of warmth that balances the creaminess.

1 cup ricotta cheese – Imparts creaminess and richness that binds everything together.

1 pound rigatoni or other short cut pasta – The perfect shape to hold all that cheesy, creamy goodness in every bite.

1 cup milk or cream – Makes for a luscious sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.

1 tablespoon Italian seasoning – A blend of spices that elevates the overall flavor profile.

2 cups fresh baby spinach – Adds a nutritious touch and a pop of color.

1/2 cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, chopped – Introduces a tangy depth of flavor that complements the squash.

1/2 cup shredded gouda cheese – For a smoky flavor that lends a complex richness.

1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese – The classic choice for a salty, nutty finish.

1 cup shredded fontina or provolone cheese – The ultimate melty cheese to top it all off.

How to Make Baked 4 Cheese Butternut Squash Rigatoni

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Baked 4 Cheese Butternut Squash Rigatoni:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This is the temperature that will give you that perfect golden brown on top, so don’t skip this step.

Step 2: Roast the Vegetables
On a baking sheet, toss together the olive oil, cubed butternut squash, halved shallot, smashed garlic, fresh oregano, and a pinch of chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Roast everything for about 20-25 minutes until the squash is tender and the kitchen smells divine.

Step 3: Puree for Creaminess
Remove the roasted garlic from its skin and combine the butternut squash, shallot, garlic, and ricotta in a food processor. Puree this dreamy mixture until it is smooth. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta
In a large, oven-safe skillet, bring 3 1/2 cups of water to a rolling boil. Add the rigatoni and cook for about 8 minutes, stirring often, until it’s al dente. Don’t worry if it feels a bit firm; it’ll finish cooking in the oven.

Step 5: Combine Everything
Stir in the pureed butternut squash until the pasta is well coated. Then, pour in the milk or cream, sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, and add in the fresh spinach and sun-dried tomatoes. Stir until everything is nicely combined and the spinach wilts from the heat.

Step 6: Get Cheesy!
Mix in the gouda and parmesan cheese until it’s all melted and gooey. Remove from heat and top with the fontina cheese.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Transfer to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is delectably melted and bubbling. You want golden, cheesy peaks that will make your taste buds hover in excitement.

For the perfect finishing touch, let it cool slightly before serving, ensuring every cheesy, flavorful layer can be enjoyed to its fullest. Whether you’re dishing it out for a family feast or a comforting dinner for one, this Baked 4 Cheese Butternut Squash Rigatoni offers a taste of home in every spoonful. Enjoy!

You Must Know About Baked 4 Cheese Butternut Squash Rigatoni

This showstopping Baked 4 Cheese Butternut Squash Rigatoni delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Baked 4 Cheese Butternut Squash Rigatoni Cooking Process

Start by roasting the butternut squash, shallots, and garlic while boiling the rigatoni. This multitasking allows the ingredients to infuse flavors while saving time. Combine everything artfully before baking with cheese for a rich, gooey finish.

Add Your Touch to Baked 4 Cheese Butternut Squash Rigatoni

Feel free to swap butternut squash for pumpkin or sweet potatoes for a twist. Add some crispy bacon, or even switch up the cheeses based on what you have on hand. The choice is yours to make it uniquely yours.

Storing & Reheating Baked 4 Cheese Butternut Squash Rigatoni

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or in the microwave for quick, cheesy goodness without losing flavor.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Baked 4 Cheese Butternut Squash Rigatoni

This professional-quality Baked 4 Cheese Butternut Squash Rigatoni relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

It was a chilly autumn evening when I first whipped up this Baked 4 Cheese Butternut Squash Rigatoni. The delighted expressions on my family’s faces as they dove into the creamy, cheesy depths were priceless, and I knew this would become a regular at our table.

FAQs About Baked 4 Cheese Butternut Squash Rigatoni

What is Baked 4 Cheese Butternut Squash Rigatoni?

Baked 4 Cheese Butternut Squash Rigatoni is a delightful pasta dish that seamlessly combines the creaminess of four different cheeses with the sweetness of roasted butternut squash. This dish features a blend of ricotta, gouda, fontina, and parmesan, creating a rich and gooey texture that is perfect for cozy meals. Tossed with pasta, fresh spinach, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes, it offers a comforting and fulfilling dining experience that is both nourishing and satisfying.

How can I personalize my Baked 4 Cheese Butternut Squash Rigatoni?

Feel free to add your personal twist to the Baked 4 Cheese Butternut Squash Rigatoni by incorporating different vegetables or proteins. You could substitute butternut squash with pumpkin or sweet potatoes. For those craving a bit of crunch, sprinkle crispy bacon or sautéed mushrooms on top. You can also experiment with various cheeses based on your preferences, like substituting mozzarella for gouda, ensuring that you create a dish that is uniquely yours.

How do I store leftovers of Baked 4 Cheese Butternut Squash Rigatoni?

To store leftover Baked 4 Cheese Butternut Squash Rigatoni, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It should remain fresh for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you can reheat it in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes to restore its cheesy goodness. Alternatively, a quick spin in the microwave can do the trick for those busy days, allowing you to savor your tasty creation without much hassle.

Can I make Baked 4 Cheese Butternut Squash Rigatoni ahead of time?

Absolutely! Baked 4 Cheese Butternut Squash Rigatoni is an excellent candidate for make-ahead meals. You can assemble the dish up to a day in advance, store it in the refrigerator, and simply bake it when you’re ready to serve. This makes it a perfect option for entertaining guests or preparing meals for busy weeknights, offering delicious comfort food with minimal last-minute effort.

Conclusion for Baked 4 Cheese Butternut Squash Rigatoni

In summary, Baked 4 Cheese Butternut Squash Rigatoni is not only delicious but also a versatile dish that can easily be customized to suit your taste. With the perfect combination of creamy cheeses and wholesome butternut squash, it provides comfort in every bite. Whether enjoyed on chilly nights or during festive gatherings, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Don’t miss the chance to savor the rich flavors and creamy textures of this comforting meal.