Brown Butter Sage Pasta Casserole with Toasted Walnuts

Ingredients

- 6 +

• 300g pasta (any shape)
• 100g unsalted butter
• 1 cup fresh sage leaves
• 200g ricotta cheese
• 100g grated Parmesan cheese
• 150g mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 100g toasted walnuts, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

1

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).

Done!

2

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.

Done!

3

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sage leaves and cook until the butter turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma, about 3-5 minutes.

Done!

4

Remove from heat and set aside the butter and sage, ensuring to keep the leaves in the butter for flavour.

Done!

5

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, ricotta cheese, most of the Parmesan cheese, and half of the toasted walnuts. Pour in the browned butter and sage mix, season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes, if using. Stir until well combined.

Done!

6

Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with mozzarella cheese and remaining Parmesan cheese.

Done!

7

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Done!

8

Sprinkle the top with remaining toasted walnuts before serving.

Done!

Kitchen Tools

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Skillet or frying pan for browning butter
• Mixing bowl
• Baking dish
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Chef's Tips

Toast the walnuts before adding for a deeper flavour.

You can substitute the pasta shape based on your preference.

Adjust the amount of cheese to your taste for creaminess.

Troubleshooting

If the pasta is dry after baking, add a splash of milk or cream before serving.

If the top browns too quickly, cover with aluminium foil during baking.

Recipe Variations

Add spinach or kale for extra greens.

Incorporate roasted butternut squash for a seasonal twist.

Replace walnuts with pecans for a different crunch.

Healthy Alternatives

Use whole grain pasta for added fibre.

Substitute ricotta with cottage cheese for a lower fat option.

Replace regular mozzarella with a lower-fat variety.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a fresh green salad.

Serve with garlic bread for an added crunch.

Drizzle a little balsamic glaze on top for extra flavour.

Nutrition Facts

550

Calories

22g

Protein

58g

Carbs

26g

Fat

3g

Fiber

2g

Sugar

500mg

Sodium

75mg

Cholesterol

Dietary Info

Vegetarian

Garnish Ideas

Freshly chopped parsley or chives for colour.

Extra Parmesan cheese on top for added richness.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheat in the oven for best texture; microwave may make it soggy.

Leftover Ideas

Use as a filling for stuffed peppers, topped with extra cheese.

Make a pasta salad by mixing with vegetables and a light dressing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the pasta before baking.

Not seasoning adequately with salt and pepper.

Failing to properly brown the butter, which enhances the dish's flavour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pasta mix and store it in the fridge. Just bake it right before serving.

What type of pasta works best?

Any pasta shape works well, but shorter shapes like penne or fusilli hold the sauce nicely.

Can I use dried sage instead of fresh?

Yes, but use only 1/3 of the amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated.

Is this dish gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.

How can I make it vegan?

Substitute non-dairy cheese and use a vegan butter alternative to make it entirely plant-based.

Reviews

Emma

Mar 23, 2026

Absolutely delicious! The brown butter adds such a rich flavor.

Liam

Mar 23, 2026

I loved it, but I think it could use a bit more cheese.

Sophia

Mar 31, 2026

This is my new go-to pasta bake! So easy and satisfying.

Olivia

Mar 23, 2026

It was good, but I preferred the pasta with less sage.

Noah

Mar 16, 2026

Really great recipe! I added some extra veggies and it turned out fantastic.

Mia

Apr 2, 2026

Loved the nutty taste from the walnuts. Will make again!

Ava

Mar 15, 2026

Perfect for dinner parties! Everyone asked for the recipe.

Liam

Mar 26, 2026

Tasty, but I found it a little rich for my taste.

Charlotte

Apr 6, 2026

Hearty and fulfilling! I added a side salad and it was perfect.

Lucas

Apr 3, 2026

So comforting! This is a staple in our house now.

Amelia

Mar 15, 2026

Delicious! The brown butter makes such a difference.

Ella

Mar 17, 2026

Good recipe, but I want to experiment with different nuts.

James

Apr 4, 2026

I cannot recommend this enough! Perfect for chilly nights.

Oliver

Mar 26, 2026

It was okay, but I think I prefer baked ziti.

Isabella

Mar 29, 2026

So creamy and delicious! Will definitely make it again soon.

Ethan

Mar 30, 2026

Yummy dish! I added a bit of lemon zest for freshness.

Aiden

Mar 19, 2026

Best pasta bake I’ve tried! So easy to whip up.

Sofia

Apr 1, 2026

The flavours are wonderful, though next time I’ll skip the pepper flakes.