Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that captures the essence of autumn, you’ve stumbled upon the right recipe! This Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite is a delightful mix of flavors and textures that warms your heart on chilly evenings. It combines tender roasted butternut squash, crispy Brussels sprouts, and savory smoked sausage all tossed with bow tie pasta in a luscious garlic butter sauce. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, making it a go-to favorite when you want something quick yet satisfying.

I love how this recipe brings together wholesome ingredients that not only taste amazing but also celebrate the season’s bounty. The ease of preparation means you can whip it up in just 25 minutes, leaving plenty of time to enjoy with loved ones. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into making this delicious autumn pasta!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: In just 25 minutes, you can have a delicious meal on the table, perfect for those busy evenings.
• Family-Friendly: With its hearty ingredients and delightful flavors, this dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• One-Skillet Wonder: Fewer dishes mean less cleanup! Everything cooks together in one skillet for maximum flavor and minimum fuss.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Featuring seasonal veggies like butternut squash and Brussels sprouts, this recipe is packed with nutrition.
• Comforting Flavors: The combination of garlic butter and smoked sausage creates a rich taste that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and wholesome, making your cooking experience enjoyable. Gather these up to create your 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, andouille, or regular smoked sausage)

For the Garlic Butter Sauce

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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to adjust it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken sausage or turkey sausage for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale at the end for an extra boost of greens.
• Change the pasta shape: Use any pasta shape you have on hand—penne or fusilli would work beautifully!
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat in your dish.

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). Start by tossing the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spreading it out on a parchment-lined baking sheet helps it roast evenly while developing that lovely caramelization. Roast for about 15-20 minutes until it’s tender and golden brown.

Step 2: Roast the Brussels Sprouts

Next up are the Brussels sprouts! Trim them and cut them in half before tossing with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on another baking sheet and let them roast for about 20-30 minutes. This step adds a delightful crunch while enhancing their natural sweetness through roasting.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

While the vegetables are roasting away, bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook the bow tie pasta according to package directions until al dente. Remember to save some pasta water before draining—it’s great for adjusting sauce consistency later!

Step 4: Brown the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Slice your cooked smoked sausage into coins and cook until they’re browned on both sides. This adds flavor depth as well as texture to our dish. Once browned, remove them from the skillet temporarily so we can build our sauce.

Step 5: Create the Garlic Butter Sauce

In that same skillet where you cooked the sausage, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—this only takes about one minute! Then add butter until melted; its richness will coat the pasta beautifully. Toss in your drained pasta along with some reserved pasta water; season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.

Step 6: Combine Everything Together

Finally, add in those roasted butternut squash cubes, Brussels sprouts, browned sausage slices, and fresh thyme leaves into your skillet. Gently mix everything together so each bite bursts with flavor. Adjust seasoning as needed—taste testing is always encouraged!

And there you have it—the perfect Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash ready to be enjoyed! Serve it up warm for dinner tonight or pack leftovers for lunch tomorrow—this dish shines any time of day!

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

Cooking this delightful dish can be a breeze with just a few handy tips to ensure everything turns out perfectly!

• Prep your ingredients first: Taking the time to chop and prepare all your ingredients before you start cooking will make the process smoother and more enjoyable. You won’t feel rushed, and it allows you to focus on getting those delicious flavors just right.
• Roast veggies until caramelized: When roasting the butternut squash and Brussels sprouts, let them cook until they are golden brown. This brings out their natural sweetness and enhances the flavor of your dish, making every bite rich and satisfying.
• Reserve pasta water: Always save a cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy liquid is a secret weapon! Adding it to your sauce helps create a creamy texture without heavy cream, perfect for binding everything together beautifully.
• Taste as you go: Don’t shy away from tasting your dish at different stages of cooking. Adjusting seasonings on the fly ensures that every flavor pops and caters to your personal preference.
• Customize with herbs: Feel free to mix in other fresh herbs like parsley or sage if thyme isn’t your favorite. Fresh herbs brighten up the dish and add an aromatic touch that screams autumn!

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

Presenting this comforting pasta dish can elevate your mealtime experience! Here are some creative ideas on how to serve it.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of vibrant green parsley not only adds color but also a fresh flavor that complements the richness of the dish.
• Grated Parmesan cheese alternative: For a cheesy finish, consider using nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese substitute, which can enhance the umami flavor without dairy.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate. It’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser!
• Simple Green Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette provides a crisp contrast to the hearty pasta dish.
• Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with roasted garlic can be an indulgent side that pairs beautifully with the flavors of the pasta.
• Sautéed Spinach with Lemon: Quick sautéed spinach adds vibrant color and nutrients. A squeeze of lemon brightens it up, balancing out the richness of the pasta.

With these serving tips and side options, you’ll create a meal that’s not only tasty but also visually appealing—a true celebration of fall flavors! Enjoy every comforting bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a warm, comforting dish throughout the week. With just a few simple storage tips, you can keep this delicious meal fresh and ready to go!

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

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

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.
• Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

If you have any questions about this dish, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries that might help.

What can I substitute for smoked sausage in this Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash recipe?

If you prefer a different protein source, try using turkey sausage or your favorite plant-based sausage. Both options will bring delicious flavors to the dish while keeping it satisfying!

Can I make Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can replace the smoked sausage with chickpeas or lentils for added protein. Additionally, consider using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth if necessary.

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

This delightful meal takes just about 25 minutes of prep time and around 30 minutes to cook, making it a quick option for busy weeknights.

Can I add more vegetables to my Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash?

Definitely! Feel free to include your favorite seasonal vegetables, such as kale or spinach. They will add extra nutrients and color to this cozy pasta dish.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re excited to dive into this heartwarming Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash recipe! It’s truly special because it combines rich flavors and comforting textures that remind us of fall gatherings. Enjoy making it for your family or friends—it’s sure to be a hit! Thank you for sharing this culinary journey with me; happy cooking!