Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite

If you’re looking for a cozy meal to warm your soul this fall, the Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite is just what you need. This dish has become a cherished recipe in my kitchen, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The combination of roasted butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, and hearty smoked sausage makes it not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. Plus, it all comes together in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze!

This pasta is a celebration of autumn flavors and colors, creating a comforting experience that everyone will love. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself after a long day, this dish brings warmth and joy to the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 25 minutes of prep and cooking time, you can whip up this delightful meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the rich flavors and textures. It’s a hit at the dinner table!
• One-Skillet Wonder: Fewer dishes means more time to relax. Everything cooks together in one pan!
• Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: Packed with veggies like butternut squash and Brussels sprouts, you’ll feel good about serving this wholesome meal.
• Endless Flavor Combinations: Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or spices for a unique twist each time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients for this autumn delight! You might already have many of these staples in your pantry. Here’s what you need:

For the Roasted Vegetables

• 3 cups butternut squash, peeled, seeded, cubed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• salt and pepper to taste
• 340 g Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• salt and pepper to taste

For the Pasta

• 225 g bow tie pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 340 g cooked smoked sausage (cajun, andouille, or regular smoked sausage)
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• salt and pepper to taste
• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
• fresh thyme leaves

Variations

This recipe is super flexible! Feel free to switch things up based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use chicken sausage or even plant-based sausage for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in spinach or kale for added nutrition and color.
• Change the pasta shape: Try penne or fusilli instead of bow tie pasta for a different texture.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes for a touch of heat if you like some spice.

How to Make Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite

Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash

Preheat your oven to 200°C. Start by tossing the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spreading it out on a parchment-lined baking sheet allows it to roast evenly, bringing out its natural sweetness. Roast for about 15-20 minutes until it’s tender and slightly caramelized.

Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

While the squash roasts, trim and halve your Brussels sprouts. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper before spreading them out on another parchment-lined baking sheet. They will roast alongside the squash for about 20-30 minutes until golden brown.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bow tie pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente—this usually takes around 8-10 minutes. Remember to reserve some pasta water when draining; it’s great for adjusting sauce consistency later!

Step 4: Sauté the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil before slicing your cooked smoked sausage into coins. Cook them until browned on both sides—this step adds flavor! Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside while keeping all those delicious drippings in there.

Step 5: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In that same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant—this should take just about a minute. Then add butter until melted; this creates a lovely sauce base! Toss in your drained pasta next so that every piece gets coated beautifully while seasoning with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.

Step 6: Combine It All Together

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Gently mix in those roasted butternut squash cubes, Brussels sprouts, browned sausage slices, and fresh thyme leaves into your pasta skillet. Give it all a good toss—this step ensures every bite is full of flavor! Adjust seasoning as needed before serving hot.

Enjoy this comforting Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash as an inviting centerpiece on any fall table!

Pro Tips for Making Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite

Cooking can be a delightful experience, especially when you have a few tips up your sleeve to make the process smoother and the results even tastier!

• Prep Ingredients Ahead: Chopping your vegetables and measuring out spices before you start cooking can save time and help maintain a stress-free kitchen environment.

• Use Fresh Thyme: Fresh herbs can elevate flavors significantly. Adding fresh thyme at the end of cooking brings a vibrant aroma and taste that dried herbs simply can’t match.

• Adjust Pasta Cooking Time: For perfectly cooked bow tie pasta, follow the package instructions but consider reducing the cooking time by a minute or two if you plan on combining it with hot ingredients later. This prevents overcooking.

• Customize Your Sausage Choice: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different types of smoked sausage. Each variety brings its own unique flavor profile that can enhance your dish.

• Reserve Pasta Water: When draining your pasta, save a bit of the starchy water. A splash of this can help bind the sauce and improve the overall texture of your dish if it looks dry.

How to Serve Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite

Presenting your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash beautifully can make all the difference! Consider serving it in warm bowls or on rustic plates that highlight its vibrant colors.

Garnishes

• Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of grated dairy-free cheese adds a creamy texture and enhances the savory notes of the dish.
• Chopped Fresh Parsley: This bright green herb adds freshness and color, making your meal visually appealing and even more flavorful.
• Cracked Black Pepper: A dash of freshly cracked black pepper not only adds heat but also gives an extra layer of flavor and aroma.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with seasonal greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette balances out the richness of the pasta while adding freshness and crunch.
• Garlic Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic-infused olive oil provide a delightful side to soak up any leftover sauce from your plate.
• Roasted Root Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies such as carrots, parsnips, or sweet potatoes complement the autumn flavors perfectly while adding color and nutrients to your meal.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds both nutrition and a pop of color to your dinner table without overshadowing the main dish.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to create an unforgettable autumn meal that will warm your heart and delight your taste buds! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash recipe is fantastic for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy the delicious flavors throughout the week. Here’s how to store and preserve your leftovers:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pasta to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking.
• Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe:

Can I use different types of sausage for the Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorite smoked sausage varieties, such as turkey or chicken sausage, while keeping in mind that they should be fully cooked before adding them to the dish.

What can I substitute for butternut squash in this pasta recipe?

If butternut squash isn’t available, you can use acorn squash or sweet potatoes for a similar texture and flavor profile!

How can I make this Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, simply omit the sausage and add more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. You could also add chickpeas for protein!

How long does it take to prepare the Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash?

This recipe takes just 25 minutes of prep time and about 30 minutes of cooking time, making it a quick and satisfying option for busy evenings.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute regular bow tie pasta with gluten-free pasta options available in stores. Adjust cooking times accordingly based on package instructions.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re excited to try making this Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm embrace on a chilly fall evening. The combination of roasted veggies and savory sausage creates a comforting dish that’s perfect for any weeknight dinner or cozy gathering. Enjoy crafting this delightful recipe, and don’t forget to share your experience with friends and family—there’s nothing quite like sharing good food with loved ones!