Oh, I absolutely love this Loaded Butternut Squash Pot Pie recipe because it wraps up all the cozy, comforting fall flavors in one buttery, flaky package. When the weather turns crisp, nothing beats a warm pot pie filled with tender squash, earthy sage, and a silky vegetable broth base. I promise you, this dish brings all the fall vibes and then some, making it perfect for family dinners or weekend gatherings where everyone wants a hug in food form.
When I first tried this recipe, it instantly became a favorite because it’s hearty yet fresh, with subtle layers of flavor that surprise you bite after bite. Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly without feeling like it’s missing anything. If you’re looking for a dish that’s both nourishing and indulgent, you’ll find that this Loaded Butternut Squash Pot Pie recipe fits that bill—and it’s easier to pull off than you might think!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting, Seasonal Flavors: The mix of butternut squash, sage, and parmesan brings rich fall tastes that everyone loves.
- Vegetarian & Filling: Packed with veggies and a creamy broth base, it’s hearty and satisfying without meat.
- Beautiful Presentation: The golden puff pastry crust topped with crispy sage leaves is as stunning as it is delicious.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep the filling ahead and assemble right before baking, saving you time on busy days.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this Loaded Butternut Squash Pot Pie recipe come together beautifully, combining sweet, earthy, and savory notes. Using fresh sage and parmesan adds that special touch that really brings the flavor home, so shop for good-quality fresh herbs if you can!
- Butternut Squash: Make sure it’s evenly cubed so it cooks uniformly and softens perfectly for the filling.
- Carrots: Adds a natural sweetness and lovely color contrast in the pot pie.
- Gold Potatoes: Use waxy types that hold their shape to give texture without turning to mush.
- Swanson Vegetable Broth: A flavorful base that ties the filling together; homemade broth works beautifully too!
- Unsalted Butter: Essential for sautéing veggies and making that silky roux.
- Sweet Onion: Adds depth and a touch of natural sweetness when softened.
- Brussels Sprouts: Shredded to blend in with the filling and add a subtle bitterness balanced by the squash.
- Garlic: Just enough to amp up the savory notes without overpowering anything.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Season to taste; they bring out all the other flavors perfectly.
- Fresh Sage: This is the star herb here – aromatic and earthy, it makes the filling stand out from your average pot pie.
- Flour: To create that thick, creamy base (roux) which holds the filling together nicely.
- Half and Half: Adds creaminess without being too heavy, balancing the broth.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated fresh is best – it adds subtle nutty flavor and a beautiful umami kick.
- Nutmeg: A tiny pinch for warmth and complexity in the seasoning.
- Prepared Puff Pastry: Look for thawed but still cold; it creates the flaky, golden crust that everyone loves.
- Egg + Water Wash: For that shiny, golden finish on the puff pastry.
- Fresh Sage Leaves (for topping): Press into the crust before baking to add a fragrant, crispy garnish.
Variations
I love that this Loaded Butternut Squash Pot Pie recipe is super flexible—you can tweak it based on what’s in your fridge or your mood. Feel free to swap veggies or add your favorite spices to make it your own.
- Mushroom Variation: I sometimes add sautéed mushrooms to the filling for an earthier flavor and extra umami. It’s a hit with the family every time!
- Vegan Option: Replace butter with olive oil and use coconut cream instead of half and half, leaving out parmesan or using a vegan substitute. It still turns out creamy and flavorful.
- Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when you sauté the onions for a subtle spicy background note.
- Gluten-Free: For a gluten-free crust, try puff pastry made with gluten-free flour or a homemade gluten-free pie dough. The filling is naturally gluten-free if you use a cornstarch slurry instead of flour to thicken.
How to Make Loaded Butternut Squash Pot Pie Recipe
Step 1: Simmer the Veggies in Broth
Start by adding your cubed butternut squash, sliced carrots, and chopped gold potatoes to a saucepan. Pour in the vegetable broth, then bring everything to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 10 to 15 minutes until the veggies are tender but not mushy. Here’s a tip from my kitchen: watch the veggies closely so they don’t overcook and lose their shape. Once done, strain the veggies but keep the broth—you’ll need all that flavorful liquid later.
Step 2: Create the Flavorful Base
While your veggies are cooking, heat a large pot over medium and melt the butter. Toss in your diced sweet onion, shredded Brussels sprouts, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and the chopped fresh sage. Stir frequently as the onions and sprouts soften, about 5 minutes. Then sprinkle in the flour and cook for a few more minutes, stirring often, until the flour turns a toasty light golden color. This step builds that luscious roux that thickens your pot pie filling with a lovely nutty aroma.
Step 3: Stir in Broth and Finish the Filling
Slowly pour the reserved vegetable broth into the roux, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Once well combined, add the cooked vegetables back into the pot. Let everything simmer together for about 5 to 6 minutes until the base thickens nicely. Now, stir in the half and half, parmesan cheese, and a pinch of nutmeg for that comforting warmth. Don’t be shy—taste and adjust the salt and pepper until it sings. This is where the filling really comes alive.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Preheat your oven to 425°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the creamy filling into the dish, spreading it evenly. Lay your puff pastry sheet over the top, trimming any excess if needed. Mix the egg and water to create an egg wash, then brush it generously over the pastry. Press fresh sage leaves into the crust and sprinkle with parmesan cheese for that picture-perfect finish. Don’t forget to cut a few slits in the pastry to let steam escape during baking. Pop it in the oven for 30 to 35 minutes until the pastry is puffed golden and the filling is bubbly beneath.
Pro Tips for Making Loaded Butternut Squash Pot Pie Recipe
- Don’t Rush the Roux: Taking the time to cook the flour until golden really deepens the flavor and helps thicken the filling to perfect consistency.
- Keep Puff Pastry Cold: Work quickly with your puff pastry and keep it chilled before baking to get that beautiful, flaky rise.
- Use Fresh Sage: It adds an incredible aroma and flavor punch that dried herbs just can’t match in this recipe.
- Watch Your Oven: Oven temps vary, so keep an eye on the crust’s color in the last 10 minutes to avoid burning while ensuring the filling is bubbly.
How to Serve Loaded Butternut Squash Pot Pie Recipe
Garnishes
When I serve this pot pie, I love adding a few extra sage leaves fried in butter for a crispy, fragrant topping. A sprinkle of extra parmesan right before serving always makes people smile, too. The crispy sage leaves on top really elevate the dish, adding texture and a gorgeous herbal aroma.
Side Dishes
This Loaded Butternut Squash Pot Pie pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed lightly in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Roasted green beans or a tangy cranberry sauce also complement the flavors well, especially in fall or winter meals.
Creative Ways to Present
For holiday dinners or special occasions, I’ve baked this pot pie in individual ramekins topped with puff pastry rounds, making it perfectly portioned and extra charming. You could also serve it with a side of crusty artisan bread for an inviting family-style spread.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and they usually last about 3 to 4 days. The filling holds up beautifully, though the crust loses a bit of its crispness, so I recommend reheating to refresh it.
Freezing
This Loaded Butternut Squash Pot Pie freezes well before baking. Just assemble it, cover tightly with foil and plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to baking time.
Reheating
To reheat, I pop individual slices in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes to crisp the pastry back up and warm the filling through. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve the delicious flaky crust!
FAQs
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Can I make this Loaded Butternut Squash Pot Pie recipe vegan?
Yes! Simply swap out the butter for olive oil or vegan butter, replace the half and half with coconut milk or another plant-based cream, and leave out the parmesan or use a vegan cheese alternative. These swaps still deliver creamy, rich flavor without dairy.
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What can I substitute for puff pastry in this recipe?
If you don’t have puff pastry, a homemade pie crust or even refrigerated crescent roll dough can work in a pinch, though the texture will be different. Puff pastry offers that signature flakiness that makes this pot pie extra special.
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Can I prepare the filling a day ahead?
Absolutely! The filling keeps well refrigerated for up to 24 hours. Just reheat gently before assembling with the puff pastry and baking.
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How do I prevent a soggy bottom crust?
Since this recipe uses puff pastry on top only, the bottom’s the baking dish itself, so sogginess isn’t usually a problem. But to keep the crust crisp, make sure you strain the vegetables well so the filling isn’t watery before baking.
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Can I add meat to this Loaded Butternut Squash Pot Pie recipe?
If you’re a meat eater, cooked shredded chicken or turkey would be delicious stirred into the filling before baking. Just make sure to adjust seasoning accordingly.
Final Thoughts
This Loaded Butternut Squash Pot Pie recipe is one of those dishes that fills your kitchen with amazing smells and your heart with comfort. It’s the kind of meal I look forward to all fall and winter, perfect for cozy nights or when you want to impress with minimal fuss. Give it a try—you might just find yourself making it over and over each season like I do. I’m positive you’re going to love how it brings warmth and smiles to your table.
PrintLoaded Butternut Squash Pot Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Loaded Butternut Squash Pot Pie recipe is a hearty, comforting dish perfect for fall or any cozy dinner. It features tender butternut squash, carrots, potatoes, and shredded Brussels sprouts in a creamy, savory vegetable broth-based filling, all encased in a flaky puff pastry crust. Enhanced with fresh sage, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and nutmeg, this pot pie is a delightful vegetarian option that’s both flavorful and satisfying.
Ingredients
Filling
- 3 cups cubed butternut squash
- 1 cup sliced carrots
- 1 cup chopped gold potatoes
- 6 cups Swanson Vegetable Broth
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 sweet onion, diced
- 1 cup shredded Brussels sprouts
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 3 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
- ½ cup flour
- ⅔ cup half and half
- 3 tablespoons finely grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ teaspoon fresh ground nutmeg
Crust and Topping
- 1 sheet prepared puff pastry
- 1 egg + 1 teaspoon water, lightly beaten
- 1 bunch of fresh sage leaves
- 3 tablespoons finely grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F. Spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook Vegetables in Broth: In a saucepan, combine the cubed butternut squash, sliced carrots, and chopped gold potatoes. Pour in the 6 cups of Swanson Vegetable Broth over the vegetables. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 to 15 minutes or until the vegetables are tender. Once cooked, strain the vegetables into a large strainer placed over a bowl, catching the broth underneath for later use.
- Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables: While the root vegetables are simmering, heat a large pot over medium heat. Add 8 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once melted, stir in diced onion, shredded Brussels sprouts, minced garlic, 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and chopped fresh sage. Cook, stirring often, until the onions and Brussels sprouts soften, about 5 minutes.
- Make the Roux: Stir in ½ cup flour to the pot to create a roux. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring often, until the flour is slightly golden and fragrant.
- Incorporate Broth and Vegetables: Slowly pour in the reserved vegetable broth in a steady stream, stirring constantly so the filling thickens. Add the cooked vegetables into this mixture. Continue cooking and stirring for 5 to 6 minutes until the base thickens.
- Finish the Filling: Stir in ⅔ cup half and half, 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan, and ¼ teaspoon fresh ground nutmeg. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Assemble the Pot Pie: Pour the prepared filling into the greased baking dish. Lay the sheet of puff pastry over the top of the filling, ensuring it covers evenly. Beat together 1 egg with 1 teaspoon water and brush the mixture all over the puff pastry.
- Add Toppings: Press fresh sage leaves into the puff pastry surface for added flavor and visual appeal. Sprinkle 3 tablespoons of finely grated Parmesan cheese on top of the pastry. Cut slits into the puff pastry with a sharp knife to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the puff pastry is puffed, golden brown, and the filling is bubbling underneath.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your warm, comforting Loaded Butternut Squash Pot Pie!
Notes
- Use fresh sage for the best flavor; dried sage will alter the taste.
- Half and half can be substituted with cream or whole milk for creaminess.
- To make ahead, assemble the pot pie but hold off on baking until ready to serve; keep refrigerated.
- Vegetable broth can be substituted with homemade broth but maintain the quantity.
- Ensure to cut slits on puff pastry well to avoid bubbling over or soggy crust.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute puff pastry and flour with gluten-free alternatives.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/6 of pot pie)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg