Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that celebrates the flavors of fall, you’ve come to the right place! This Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite is a true gem in my kitchen. It’s one of those recipes that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want something hearty yet quick to prepare. The combination of roasted butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, and smoky sausage tossed with bow tie pasta in a garlic butter sauce makes it a dish everyone will love.

I adore this recipe not just for its incredible flavor but also for how it brings everyone together at the dinner table. The warm, inviting aromas fill the air as it cooks, making it hard to resist diving in right away!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 25 minutes! It’s perfect for those busy evenings.
• Hearty and Comforting: With its rich flavors and filling ingredients, this pasta is like a warm hug on a plate.
• One-Skillet Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal and savor those delightful moments with family.
• Customizable Ingredients: You can easily swap out veggies or proteins based on what you have on hand!
• Family-Friendly: With its delicious flavors and fun pasta shapes, even picky eaters will find something to love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need for this delicious Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash!

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 or regular smoked sausage work well)

For the Sauce

• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Fresh thyme leaves

Variations

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients while keeping the essence of this comforting dish.

• Swap the protein: Use chicken sausage or turkey sausage if you prefer a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Try including spinach, kale, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Switch up the pasta shape: If bow tie pasta isn’t available, any short pasta like penne or fusilli will work beautifully!
• Make it vegan: Substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage and use vegan butter instead.

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

Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash

Preheat your oven to 200°C (about 400°F). Toss those beautiful cubes of butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spreading them out on a parchment-lined baking sheet helps them roast evenly. After about 15-20 minutes in the oven, they should be tender and slightly caramelized—just wait until you smell that sweet aroma!

Step 2: Roast the Brussels Sprouts

While your squash is roasting away, trim and halve your Brussels sprouts. Give them a toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper before spreading them out on another baking sheet. Roasting these beauties for about 20-30 minutes adds a lovely crispy texture that perfectly complements our creamy pasta.

Step 3: Cook the Bow Tie Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your bow tie pasta according to package directions until it’s al dente. Remember to reserve some of that precious pasta water; it’ll help bring everything together later!

Step 4: Prepare the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and slice your smoked sausage into coins. Browning them on both sides adds depth of flavor that really elevates our dish! Once they’re nicely browned, remove them from the skillet and set aside.

Step 5: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In that same skillet (don’t wash it!), cook minced garlic until fragrant—just about a minute will do! Melt in some butter next; this is where all our flavors start coming together. Add in your cooked bow tie pasta along with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Toss everything so every piece gets coated in that luscious garlic butter sauce.

Step 6: Combine Everything Together

Now comes the magic moment! Gently mix in those roasted butternut squash cubes, crispy Brussels sprouts, cooked sausage slices, and fresh thyme leaves into your skillet. Take care not to mash everything; we want those textures intact! Taste it one last time before serving; adjust seasoning if needed.

And there you have it—a delightful Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash dish ready to warm hearts and bellies alike! Enjoy every bite!

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

Cooking this hearty pasta dish is a breeze, and with a few tips, you can elevate it even further!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh butternut squash and Brussels sprouts bring vibrant flavor and nutrients to the dish. They enhance the overall taste and make the meal feel special.

• Customize Your Sausage: Opt for your favorite smoked sausage variety. Each type brings a unique flavor profile that can change the character of the dish, so feel free to experiment!

• Don’t Skip the Roasting: Roasting the vegetables intensifies their natural sweetness and adds a lovely caramelization that enhances the dish’s depth. This step is essential for achieving that fall-inspired flavor.

• Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining your bow tie pasta, set aside a cup of the cooking water. This starchy liquid is perfect for adjusting the sauce’s consistency later on, ensuring that everything stays beautifully coated.

• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Everyone’s palate is different! Don’t hesitate to taste as you go and adjust salt, pepper, or smoked paprika levels according to your preferences.

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

Serving this delightful pasta dish can be as simple or as elegant as you like! Here are some ideas to impress your family or guests:

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness, balancing the rich flavors of the dish.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese Alternative: For a creamy finish without animal-derived ingredients, try using a plant-based parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: If you enjoy a little heat, add crushed red pepper flakes on top before serving for an extra kick.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread for a comforting complement. The crispy texture pairs perfectly with the creamy pasta.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette will add freshness and balance out the meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: Keep with the autumn theme by serving roasted carrots or sweet potatoes on the side; their natural sweetness pairs well with savory pasta.
• Steamed Green Beans: Bright green beans lightly steamed offer crispness and color contrast while enhancing your nutrient intake in this comforting meal.

With these pro tips and serving suggestions, you’ll create an unforgettable dining experience full of autumn flavors! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it in advance, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your delicious dish.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the dish cool down entirely.
• Portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
• When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

• To reheat in the microwave, place portions in a microwave-safe bowl with a splash of water. Cover and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
• For stovetop reheating, add a little olive oil or broth to a skillet and warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

What makes Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash such a fall favorite?

Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash combines seasonal ingredients like butternut squash and Brussels sprouts with savory sausage, creating rich flavors that perfectly embody autumn comforts.

Can I use different types of sausage in this recipe?

Absolutely! While smoked sausage adds great flavor, feel free to substitute with turkey sausage or any other cooked sausage you prefer for a lighter option.

How long does it take to make Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash?

This delicious dish can be made in just 25 minutes of active cooking time plus additional roasting time, making it an amazing quick dinner option for busy fall evenings!

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the sausage and add extra vegetables or chickpeas for protein. You could also use plant-based sausage alternatives if desired.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this warm and comforting Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash! It’s not just a meal; it’s an embrace on a plate that brings together all those wonderful fall flavors. Whether you’re enjoying it solo or sharing it with loved ones, I’m sure you’ll love every bite. Happy cooking!