Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that perfectly captures the essence of autumn, then you’ve come to the right place! This Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite is a dish that warms your heart and fills your home with delightful aromas. It’s not just about satisfying your hunger; it’s about coming together with family or friends on a chilly evening, sharing laughter, and enjoying moments that last a lifetime.

What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity and rich flavors. With ingredients like roasted butternut squash and tender Brussels sprouts, each bite is a celebration of fall. Plus, it’s quick enough for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough for family gatherings. Trust me, once you try this dish, it will quickly become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: Whip this up in just 25 minutes! Perfect for those evenings when time is tight but you still want something hearty.
• One-skillet wonder: Less cleanup means more time to relax. You’ll love how easy it is to make everything in one pan.
• Family-friendly flavors: With savory sausage and sweet squash, even the pickiest eaters will ask for seconds!
• Seasonal goodness: Embrace fall with seasonal ingredients that not only taste great but also nourish your body.
• Versatile dish: This pasta can easily be adapted to fit various tastes and dietary needs. There’s something for everyone!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that will bring this comforting dish to life. You might already have many of these staples at home!

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 and Sausage

• 225 g bow tie pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 340 g cooked smoked sausage (cajun 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 wonderfully flexible! Here are some ideas to switch things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences:

• Swap the protein: Feel free to use chicken sausage or even a plant-based sausage alternative if you’re looking for a lighter option.
• Change up the greens: Instead of Brussels sprouts, try adding spinach or kale for a different flavor profile.
• Add some spice: If you love heat, toss in some red pepper flakes or jalapeños to the mix!
• Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt after combining all the ingredients for an extra luscious sauce.

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

Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash

First things first, preheat your oven to 200°C. Toss those lovely cubed butternut squash pieces with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Spreading them out on a parchment-lined baking sheet helps them roast beautifully—cooking them until they’re tender and just starting to caramelize takes about 15-20 minutes.

Step 2: Roast the Brussels Sprouts

While the squash roasts away, get your Brussels sprouts ready! Trim off their ends and slice them in half. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper before placing them on another baking sheet. They’ll need about 20-30 minutes in the oven until they’re crispy on the outside and tender inside.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil while your veggies roast. Add in the bow tie pasta once it’s bubbling away. Follow package directions to cook until al dente—just firm enough to hold its shape. Drain but don’t forget to save some pasta water; it may come in handy later!

Step 4: Brown the Sausage

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Slice your cooked smoked sausage into coins and toss them into the skillet. Cooking until they’re browned gives them wonderful flavor! Once done, remove them from the pan and set aside.

Step 5: Create the Garlic Butter Sauce

In that same skillet (all those delicious bits are still there!), add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—just about one minute does wonders! Then add butter until melted. Toss in your drained pasta next—this helps coat it beautifully while seasoning with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.

Step 6: Combine Everything Together

Finally, add those roasted butternut squash cubes, crispy Brussels sprouts, browned sausage slices, and fresh thyme leaves back into the skillet. Gently mix everything together until well combined—adjust seasoning as needed. Now you’ve created something truly special!

Enjoy every bite of this Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite! It’s perfect for cozy dinners at home or impressing guests during gatherings. Happy cooking!

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

Creating a delicious and comforting pasta dish can be a breeze with just a few handy tips!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh produce enhances the flavor and nutrition of your meal. Look for vibrant Brussels sprouts and firm butternut squash to elevate your dish.
• Don’t skip the roasted veggies: Roasting brings out the natural sweetness in vegetables, making them more flavorful and caramelized. This adds depth to your pasta that boiling simply can’t achieve!
• Reserve pasta water: Keeping a bit of the starchy pasta water can help you adjust the sauce’s consistency. If you find your dish a little dry, just add a splash of this magic water to bring it back to life!
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to swap in your favorite herbs or spices! A pinch of nutmeg, thyme, or even some crushed red pepper flakes can add a unique twist to the classic flavors.
• Make it ahead: This dish stores well, so consider prepping it in advance for busy weeknights. Just reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a little olive oil or reserved pasta water if needed.

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

Serving up this delightful Autumn Sausage Pasta is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary sides. Here are some ideas to make your meal even more enjoyable!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of vibrant green parsley not only adds color but also provides a fresh herbal note that brightens the rich flavors.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: If you’re looking for an extra layer of flavor, a light dusting of freshly grated Parmesan adds creaminess and depth without overpowering the dish.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Crispy garlic bread is always a winner! It’s perfect for soaking up any leftover garlic butter sauce from your pasta while adding delightful crunch.
• Mixed green salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty pasta and helps balance the meal.
• Roasted carrots: Sweet, caramelized roasted carrots make an excellent side that complements the squash in your main dish while adding vibrant color to your plate.
• Steamed green beans: Lightly steamed green beans add a nice crunch and their bright green color enhances your autumnal palette while providing extra nutrition.

By incorporating these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re sure to impress family and friends with this seasonal favorite! Enjoy every bite as you embrace the cozy flavors of fall.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious, hearty meals throughout the week with minimal effort. It’s a great way to savor the flavors of fall while saving time in the kitchen.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

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

Reheating

• Thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent sticking.
• Heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Have questions about this delicious dish? Here are some answers!

Can I make Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash vegan?

Absolutely! You can substitute smoked sausage with plant-based sausage alternatives and use vegan butter instead. The dish will still be hearty and satisfying.

How do I customize my Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash?

You can easily swap out vegetables based on your preference. Consider adding kale, spinach, or even sweet potatoes for added flavor and nutrition!

What type of pasta works best for Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash?

While bow tie pasta is fantastic, you can also use penne, rotini, or any pasta shape you have on hand. Just adjust cooking times as needed!

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! The recipe is great for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge or freezer as mentioned above. This makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash! It’s not just a meal; it’s a cozy experience that brings warmth and comfort to chilly evenings. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, it’s bound to become a favorite in your home. Happy cooking!