Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite

If you’re looking for a cozy dinner that truly captures the essence of fall, then you’ve come to the right place! This Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite is not only hearty and comforting but also super easy to whip up on a busy weeknight. The delightful combination of roasted butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, and smoked sausage all tossed together with bow tie pasta makes for a dish that feels like a warm hug after a long day.

What I love most about this recipe is how it brings everyone together at the dinner table. Whether you’re having family over or just enjoying a quiet evening in, this pasta dish is perfect for any occasion. It’s simple yet packed with flavor, making it a go-to favorite in my house every autumn!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 25 minutes of hands-on time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time!
• Comforting Flavors: The rich combination of garlic butter, smoked paprika, and fresh thyme create a mouthwatering experience.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with seasonal veggies like butternut squash and Brussels sprouts, this dish is both nourishing and satisfying.
• One-Skillet Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to relax and enjoy your meal.
• Family-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will love this flavorful pasta dish!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that make this dish shine! You probably already have most of them in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll 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

For the Sauce

• 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 get creative with these easy variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale for extra nutrition and color.
• Make it vegetarian: Replace sausage with chickpeas or lentils for a hearty plant-based version.
• Change up the pasta: Use any pasta shape you have on hand—penne or fusilli work wonderfully too!

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 your cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread it out on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roasting the squash brings out its natural sweetness and gives it a lovely caramelization that enhances the overall flavor of your dish.

Step 2: Roast the Brussels Sprouts

While your squash is roasting for about 15-20 minutes, trim and halve your Brussels sprouts. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper before placing them on another baking sheet. Pop them in the oven as well—they’ll need about 20-30 minutes to get beautifully crispy.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil while your veggies are roasting. Cook your bow tie pasta according to package directions until al dente—this keeps them firm and prevents mushiness in your final dish. Remember to reserve some pasta water before draining; it can help adjust your sauce later!

Step 4: Brown the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat, add some olive oil. Slice your cooked sausage into coins and cook until they’re browned on both sides. This step adds flavor through caramelization! Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside.

Step 5: Create Your Sauce

In that same skillet (don’t wash it!), add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—just about a minute will do! Then add butter until melted before adding back in those drained bow tie pasta pieces. Toss everything together so that each piece of pasta gets coated in that buttery goodness along with seasoning from salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.

Step 6: Combine It All Together

Finally, add in your roasted butternut squash, crispy Brussels sprouts, cooked sausage slices, and fresh thyme leaves. Gently mix everything together until well combined! Taste and adjust seasoning as needed—this is where you can make it just right for you.

And there you have it—a deliciously comforting Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash ready to be served! Enjoy every bite surrounded by loved ones as you embrace all those cozy fall vibes!

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

When you’re ready to whip up this delicious autumn dish, these pro tips will ensure your meal turns out perfect every time!

• Choose the right sausage: Opt for a smoked sausage that suits your taste preferences, such as cajun or andouille. The smoky flavor enhances the overall taste of the dish and complements the sweetness of the butternut squash beautifully.

• Perfectly roast your veggies: Make sure to cut your butternut squash and Brussels sprouts into uniform sizes for even roasting. This ensures everything cooks at the same rate, giving you perfectly tender vegetables with caramelized edges.

• Reserve pasta water: When you drain the cooked bow tie pasta, set aside a cup of pasta water. This starchy water can help adjust the consistency of your sauce later if needed, making it creamier without adding extra fat.

• Toss gently: When mixing all the ingredients in the skillet, use a gentle hand. This will help keep the veggies intact while ensuring everything is well combined without turning it into a mushy mess.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Don’t forget to taste your dish before serving! Adding salt, pepper, or more herbs at the end can elevate flavors and make this comforting meal even more enjoyable.

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

This hearty pasta dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Here are some ideas on how to present it beautifully on your table!

Garnishes

• Fresh thyme leaves: A sprinkle of fresh thyme adds a pop of color and enhances the herbal notes in your dish.
• Grated parmesan cheese substitute: For a dairy-free alternative, consider using nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without any animal products.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: If you enjoy a bit of heat, a dash of crushed red pepper flakes can add an exciting kick to each bite.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Soft and buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your pasta. It’s an easy addition that everyone loves!
• Mixed green salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the pasta dish.
• Roasted root vegetables: Seasoned roasted carrots and parsnips make for a colorful side that complements the fall flavors in your main dish.
• Steamed green beans: Crisp-tender green beans tossed with olive oil and sea salt add crunch and balance to your meal while being simple to prepare.

Enjoy serving this comforting Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash as part of a delightful autumn feast!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, ensuring you have a delicious, hearty dinner ready to go on busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• When storing, make sure to separate any extra sauce to keep the pasta from becoming too soggy.

Freezing

• To freeze, portion out the pasta into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to help loosen it up as needed.
• Alternatively, you can microwave single servings until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might arise while preparing this delightful dish.

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

Absolutely! Feel free to use any smoked sausage variety that suits your taste—chicken or turkey sausage works great too. This flexibility allows you to customize your dish while keeping it delicious!

How can I make my Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash healthier?

To make this dish lighter, consider using whole grain bow tie pasta and reducing the amount of butter. You can also add more veggies like spinach or kale for added nutrients without sacrificing flavor.

Can I prepare the Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash in advance?

Yes! This recipe is fantastic for meal prepping. You can roast the vegetables and cook the pasta ahead of time, then combine everything when you’re ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash recipe brings warmth and joy to your kitchen this fall! It’s not just a meal but a comforting experience filled with rich flavors and delightful aromas. Enjoy making it for yourself and your loved ones—you’ll surely be coming back for seconds! Happy cooking!