Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish to warm your soul this fall, you’ve come to the right place! My Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that truly captures the essence of the season. With hearty bow tie pasta, smoky sausage, and sweet roasted butternut squash, this meal is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Plus, it comes together in just 25 minutes!

This recipe has become a beloved staple in my home because it’s not only delicious but also easy to prepare. The rich garlic butter sauce ties everything together beautifully, making it a surefire hit with both kids and adults alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: This dish comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for those busy evenings when you need dinner on the table fast.
• One-skillet wonder: Less cleanup means more time enjoying your meal and relaxing afterward!
• Loaded with veggies: The butternut squash and Brussels sprouts make this pasta not just filling but also packed with nutrients.
• Family-friendly flavors: Smoky sausage and buttery garlic create a comforting taste that everyone will love.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week; it reheats beautifully!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that will make your kitchen smell divine! This dish relies on fresh produce and flavorful sausage to create a mouthwatering experience.

For the Roasted Veggies

• 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 and Sauce

• 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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken sausage or even a plant-based alternative for a different flavor profile.
• Add more greens: Throw in some spinach or kale during the last minute of cooking for an extra boost of nutrients.
• Change up the pasta: If bow tie isn’t your favorite, feel free to use any shape you like—penne or fusilli work great!
• Make it creamy: Add a splash of cream or a dollop of ricotta before serving for an indulgent twist.

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

Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Toss those lovely cubes of butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a parchment-lined baking sheet so they roast evenly. Roasting enhances their natural sweetness—a must-do step that makes all the difference!

Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

Trim and halve your Brussels sprouts. Just like with the squash, toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper before spreading them out on another baking sheet. These little green gems will become wonderfully caramelized while roasting alongside the squash—trust me; you’ll want every bite!

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

While your veggies are roasting away, 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 pasta water before draining—it can help loosen up your sauce later if needed!

Step 4: Sauté the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Slice your smoked sausage into coins and cook them until they’re browned on both sides. This step brings out their smoky flavor! Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside.

Step 5: Create Your Sauce

In that same skillet (no need to wash up), sauté minced garlic until it’s fragrant—about one minute should do it. Add butter next; melting it into that garlicky goodness is key! Once melted, toss in your drained pasta along with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Give it all a good mix so every piece gets coated in flavor.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Finally, add those roasted veggies back into the skillet along with the cooked sausage and fresh thyme leaves. Gently stir everything together until well combined. Adjust seasoning as needed—this is where you can personalize it to your taste!

And there you have it—a beautiful Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash dish ready in no time! Enjoy every bite with loved ones around your dinner table this fall season.

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

Creating a delicious and comforting Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash is easier than you might think! With these handy tips, you’ll ensure that your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Choose fresh ingredients: Using fresh butternut squash and Brussels sprouts not only enhances the flavor but also adds vibrant colors to your dish, making it more appetizing.

• Don’t skip the roasting step: Roasting the butternut squash and Brussels sprouts brings out their natural sweetness and adds a delightful caramelization that elevates the overall taste of the pasta.

• Reserve some pasta water: Keeping a bit of starchy pasta water on hand can help you adjust the sauce’s consistency. If the pasta seems dry, adding a splash of this water will create a silky texture.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone’s palate is different; don’t hesitate to tweak the amounts of salt, pepper, and smoked paprika to match your preference. Taste as you go!

• Make it ahead: This dish holds up well in the fridge for meal prep. Just reheat gently on the stove with a little olive oil or butter for an easy weeknight dinner!

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

Presenting your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash in an inviting way can transform your meal into a special occasion! Here are some ideas to elevate your serving game.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds color and freshness, brightening up your dish visually and enhancing its flavors.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: While not animal-derived gelatin, using a dairy-free cheese alternative can provide a creamy texture and salty flavor that complements the pasta beautifully.
• Squeeze of lemon: A little zest from lemon juice just before serving can cut through the richness of the garlic butter sauce, adding a refreshing twist.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Perfectly toasted slices of garlic bread are ideal for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate, making it a classic companion to this hearty pasta dish.

• Mixed green salad: A light salad with seasonal greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette provides a crisp contrast to the warm, comforting pasta, adding balance to your meal.

• Roasted vegetables: Pairing this dish with additional roasted vegetables like carrots or zucchini can boost nutritional value while offering varied textures and flavors.

Enjoy crafting this delightful Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash! It’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table during those cozy fall evenings.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance, ensuring you have delicious autumn flavors ready to go during your busy week.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To keep the pasta from drying out, add a splash of water or broth before sealing the container.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little water or broth to help revive the dish.
• Stir occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe!

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

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different varieties of smoked sausage that suit your taste. Chicken or turkey sausage would work beautifully as well, providing similar flavors without pork.

How do I make this Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash vegetarian?

To make this dish vegetarian-friendly, simply omit the sausage and substitute it with your favorite plant-based protein, such as lentils or chickpeas. You can also enhance it with extra veggies for added nutrients!

What can I serve alongside Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash?

A fresh green salad or crusty bread makes a lovely accompaniment to this hearty meal. Pairing it with a light vinaigrette salad can balance out the richness of the pasta.

Can I replace butternut squash with another vegetable in this recipe?

Yes! If you’re not a fan of butternut squash, feel free to swap it out for sweet potatoes or even roasted carrots for a similar sweet flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this comforting Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash! It’s not only quick and easy but also fills your kitchen with wonderful autumn aromas. Enjoy making it for family dinners or cozy evenings at home. Share it with friends and let them experience its delightful flavors too! Happy cooking!