Looking for a quick and delicious high-protein meal that’s both cozy and satisfying? Look no further than this butternut squash tortellini recipe! Packed with protein from cheese tortellini and cottage cheese, and with the rich and creamy texture from roasted butternut squash and Boursin garlic and herb cheese, it’s the perfect meal.

This dish is ideal for a busy weeknight or when you’re in the mood for a comforting pasta meal that is both healthy and indulgent. It features creamy Boursin cheese, and a touch of Parmesan, making it a surefire family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

-High-protein: Each serving is loaded with about 25-28 grams of protein, making it a great option for anyone looking to boost their protein intake.

-Quick and easy: With just a few simple steps, this meal comes together in under 40 minutes.

-Comforting flavors: The creamy combination of butternut squash and garlic herb Boursin cheese makes this dish perfect for cozy nights.

-Packed with veggies: You’ll get a healthy dose of fiber and nutrients from butternut squash.

Health Benefits of Ingredients:

1. Butternut Squash:
   • Rich in Vitamins: Butternut squash is high in vitamin A (in the form of beta-carotene), which supports healthy vision, skin, and immune function. It also provides a good amount of vitamin C, which helps with collagen production and immunity.
   • High in Fiber: This squash is a great source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps keep you full longer, contributing to weight management.
   • Low in Calories: Despite being sweet and satisfying, butternut squash is relatively low in calories, making it a nutrient-dense ingredient.
2. Boursin Garlic & Herb Cheese:
   • Rich in Flavor, Low in Carbs: Boursin cheese adds creamy, savory flavor without a lot of carbs, making it a great choice for low-carb meals.
   • Source of Calcium: As a dairy product, it provides calcium, which is essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
3. Cheese Tortellini:
   • Protein-Packed: Each serving of tortellini in this recipe provides 12 grams of protein, helping with muscle repair and growth.
   • Source of Carbohydrates: Tortellini is a good source of complex carbohydrates, which provide sustained energy—perfect for fueling your day or post-workout recovery.
   • Fortified with Nutrients: Many store-bought tortellini varieties are fortified with vitamins and minerals such as iron, which supports oxygen transport in the body.
4. Cottage Cheese (Optional):
   • High in Protein: Cottage cheese is an excellent source of casein protein, which digests slowly and helps maintain steady amino acid levels, making it great for muscle recovery.
   • Rich in Calcium and B Vitamins: It provides calcium for bone health and B vitamins that support metabolism and energy production.
5. Olive Oil:
   • Heart-Healthy Fats: Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of heart disease.
   • Antioxidants: It also contains antioxidants that can help protect cells from oxidative stress.

Ingredients:

– 1/2 medium-sized butternut squash, peeled and cubed

– 1 pack (5 oz) Boursin garlic and herb cheese

– 1 pack cheese tortellini

– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

– 1 tbsp olive oil

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 1/2 cup vegetable broth or pasta water (to adjust sauce consistency)

– 1/2 cup cottage cheese (optional for extra creaminess and protein)

-Chopped basil (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Roast the butternut squash and Boursin:  

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Then, add the Boursin garlic and herb cheese on the same baking sheet and roast for 30-45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the squash is soft and caramelized, and the cheese is melted.

2. Cook the tortellini:

While the squash is roasting, cook the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, saving about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later.

3. Make the sauce:

In a blender, add the roasted butternut squash, cottage cheese, salt, pepper, and up to 1/4 cup of pasta water. Blend until smooth. If you’re not using a blender, gently mash the squash to create a creamy sauce with cottage cheese and Boursin, and a little bit of pasta water. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

4. Combine and serve:

After cooking the tortellini, mix it with the boursin and add the blended butternut squash sauce. Make sure it’s well coated with the sauce. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Top it with grated Parmesan and bake for 5 minutes. Sprinkle some basil on top and serve hot!

Nutritional Information (per serving):

-Calories: ~520 kcal

-Protein: 28g

-Fat: ~22g

-Carbohydrates: ~60g  

-Fiber: 7g

Tips for Success:

– If you’re aiming for a higher protein intake, you can use a high-protein tortellini variety.

– The cottage cheese adds a creamy texture without overpowering the flavor, so don’t skip it if you’re looking for more protein.

– This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or garlic bread for an even more filling meal.

Meal Prep and Storage Tips:

1. Make Ahead:
   • You can roast the butternut squash and prepare the sauce up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply heat it in a pan, add the tortellini, and adjust the sauce consistency with a splash of pasta water or vegetable broth.
2. Storing Leftovers:
   • Store leftover tortellini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a bit of broth or water to keep the sauce creamy and prevent it from drying out.
3. Freezing:
   • While the tortellini itself freezes well, the creamy sauce may change texture when frozen. If you want to freeze this meal, prepare the tortellini and butternut squash separately, and then combine them when reheating. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
4. Reheating Tips:
   • Reheat leftovers in a pan over low heat or in the microwave. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a bit of pasta water, vegetable broth, or milk to thin it out and restore its creamy texture.
5. Portioning for Meal Prep:
   • Divide the tortellini into individual meal prep containers for easy grab-and-go lunches. You can also keep the spinach separate and mix it in right before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant.

This High-Protein Butternut Squash Tortellini with Boursin Garlic and Herb recipe is a delicious way to enjoy a comforting, protein-packed meal. The creamy Boursin and cottage cheese perfectly complement the sweet roasted butternut squash and, while the cheese tortellini adds a satisfying texture. It’s a great recipe for meal prep or for a quick weeknight dinner. Try it today and enjoy all the flavors of fall in one bowl!

For more high-protein pescatarian recipes and meal-prep ideas, follow me on Instagram @melshealthybowl where I share step-by-step cooking videos, tips, and inspiration for your next healthy meal.

Remember to share and tag me on Instagram @melshealthybowl if you try this recipe!

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