The aroma of roasted butternut squash wafting through my kitchen instantly transports me to crisp autumn evenings, where family gathers around the table, and laughter fills the air. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash, a delightful one-skillet meal that seamlessly blends seasonal flavors into every bite. With a mere 25 minutes of prep, this comforting dish is perfect for those hectic weeknights when you crave something satisfying yet quick. Whether you opt for smoky sausage or a vegetarian twist, you’ll find it’s a versatile crowd-pleaser that brings warmth to your plate and home. Are you ready to fill your kitchen with the scents of fall? Let’s dive into this recipe!
Why is Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash a Must-Try?
Cozy Comfort Food: This dish embraces the essence of fall with its warm flavors of roasted butternut squash and smoky sausage, making every bite a delightful experience.
Quick and Easy: In just 25 minutes, you can whip up this one-skillet meal, perfect for busy weeknights.
Versatile Options: With easy variations, you can customize it to suit all tastes; try it with veggie sausage for a delicious vegetarian twist.
Simple Cleanup: One skillet means less time spent cleaning up and more time enjoying this satisfying meal.
Perfect for Sharing: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table! You might also love pairing it with a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast, just like with the Cucumber Pasta Salad.
Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to create this comforting dish!
For the Pasta
- Bow Tie Pasta – This shape holds the sauce beautifully; feel free to swap for any pasta you love, just cook until al dente!
For the Vegetables
- Butternut Squash – Adds natural sweetness; substitute with acorn squash or sweet potatoes for a seasonal twist.
- Brussels Sprouts – Offers a delightful crunch; green beans or asparagus are great substitutes if desired.
- Garlic – Infuses the dish with aromatic depth; ensure to sauté it just until fragrant to avoid bitterness.
- Fresh Thyme Leaves – Provide an earthy fragrance; dried thyme can be used if fresh isn’t handy.
For the Sausage
- Smoked Sausage (cooked) – This lends a savory, smoky flavor to the dish; try cajun, andouille, or kielbasa, or use veggie sausage as a vegetarian option.
For Flavor
- Olive Oil – Essential for roasting and sautéing, enhancing the overall flavor; extra virgin olive oil is highly recommended.
- Butter – Adds richness to the garlic butter sauce; for a dairy-free version, vegan butter works beautifully.
- Smoked Paprika – Infuses a smoky note into the dish; if you don’t have it, regular paprika can be used instead.
Get ready to enjoy a cozy evening filled with the heartwarming flavors of this Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Squash
Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (400°F). While the oven heats up, peel and cube the butternut squash into bite-sized pieces. In a mixing bowl, toss the cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper until well-coated. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until tender and lightly caramelized.
Step 2: Roast Brussels Sprouts
While the squash is roasting, prepare the Brussels sprouts by trimming the ends and halving them. Place the halved sprouts in a bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Once the butternut squash has roasted for about 10 minutes, add the Brussels sprouts to the same baking sheet and continue roasting for an additional 20-30 minutes, until both vegetables are crisp and golden.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the bow tie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, which generally takes around 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, reserve about a cup of the pasta water, then drain the rest. This starchy water will help thicken the sauce later for your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash.
Step 4: Brown the Sausage
In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced cooked smoked sausage and sauté for 4-5 minutes, or until it’s heated through and starts to brown. The sausage will add a savory depth to your dish. Once browned, use a slotted spoon to remove the sausage and set it aside on a plate while retaining the drippings in the skillet.
Step 5: Sauté Garlic and Combine
Lower the heat slightly and add minced garlic to the skillet, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to overcook it to avoid bitterness. Next, add butter and allow it to melt into the garlic, creating a rich sauce. Immediately incorporate the cooked bow tie pasta along with a splash of reserved pasta water, tossing everything to combine well.
Step 6: Fold in Vegetables and Season
Gently fold the roasted butternut squash, crispy Brussels sprouts, and browned sausage into the pasta mixture. Sprinkle in smoked paprika and fresh thyme leaves, mixing everything until evenly distributed. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed with extra salt or pepper to ensure the flavors of your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash shine through.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove the skillet from heat. Serve the dish warm, garnishing with additional thyme leaves if desired. This comforting Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash is perfect for sharing with family and friends, bringing the cozy essence of fall right to your table.
How to Store and Freeze Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash
Fridge: Store cooled leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Be sure to let the pasta squash cool before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight freezer bags for up to 3 months. Squeeze out excess air before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, reheat the Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist as it warms through.
Do Not Refreeze: Once thawed, do not refreeze the dish, as the texture may suffer. Enjoy the flavors while they’re fresh!
Expert Tips for Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash
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Prep in Advance: Start by chopping your squash and Brussels sprouts ahead of time, so you can save precious minutes when you’re ready to cook!
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Roast Together: If your baking sheet allows, roast the butternut squash and Brussels sprouts together to save on cleanup time without compromising flavor.
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Watch the Garlic: Sauté the garlic just until fragrant; overcooking it can lead to bitterness, ruining the harmony of your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash flavors.
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Pasta Perfection: Always cook your pasta al dente; it will continue to cook once mixed with hot ingredients, avoiding a mushy texture.
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Season Thoroughly: Don’t skimp on seasoning! Taste as you go, and add salt or pepper as needed to ensure your dish is bursting with flavor.
Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash Variations
Feel free to explore different flavors and textures with these delightful twists on your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash!
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Vegetarian Twist: Replace smoked sausage with veggie sausage for a rich, plant-based alternative that’s still hearty. Enjoy the same comforting flavors without the meat.
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Sweet Potato Surprise: Substitute butternut squash with sweet potatoes for an extra hint of sweetness. They roast beautifully and pair wonderfully with the smoky elements of the dish.
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Zesty Addition: Add a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of lemon zest just before serving for a refreshing brightness that complements the warm flavors.
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Cheesy Indulgence: Stir in some grated Parmesan or your favorite cheese into the finished dish for added creaminess and depth. It truly elevates each bite beyond delicious!
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Spicy Kick: For those who crave a bit of heat, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. This will bring a tantalizing zing to your comforting meal.
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Mushroom Medley: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms for an earthy, umami flavor. This addition can enhance the dish’s overall complexity and provide additional texture.
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Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle toasted walnuts or pine nuts on top before serving for a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender pasta and veggies.
These variations can be enjoyed alongside other cozy recipes like the Cajun Chicken Pasta or a warm bowl of Sausage Potato Soup. Feel inspired to get creative and make this dish your own!
What to Serve with Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash
Elevate your autumn dining experience with these delightful side dishes that perfectly complement the warm flavors of this one-skillet meal.
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Crisp Green Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette provides a light contrast to the rich pasta dish. The crunch of fresh vegetables brightens up your meal.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery garlic breadsticks create the perfect accompaniment for scooping up any leftover sauce, adding a delightful burst of flavor that pairs seamlessly with the dish.
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Roasted Root Vegetables: A medley of roasted carrots, parsnips, and beets offers an earthy sweetness that harmonizes beautifully with the smoked sausage and squash dessert.
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Creamy Polenta: This creamy, cheesy polenta is a comforting side that adds a lovely texture and warmth, balancing the hearty pasta with its velvety smoothness.
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Herbed Couscous: Quick to prepare, fluffy couscous infused with herbs provides a light, fluffy side that complements the richness of the sausage and squash while bringing a touch of brightness.
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Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay enhances the rustic flavors of your meal, with its crisp acidity highlighting the sweetness of the roasted butternut squash beautifully.
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Apple Crisp: Finish off your meal with a warm apple crisp drizzled with cream. The sweet, spiced flavor echoes the cozy essence of your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash, making dessert a perfect ending.
Make Ahead Options
Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash is perfect for making ahead to streamline your meal prep! You can roast the butternut squash and Brussels sprouts up to 3 days in advance and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. To maintain their quality, ensure they cool completely before refrigerating, which prevents sogginess. Additionally, you can cook the bow tie pasta up to 24 hours ahead; just be sure to toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy this comforting dish, simply reheat the vegetables in a skillet, sauté some garlic and sausage, combine everything with the pasta, and serve warm for a delightful meal that feels fresh and delicious without any fuss!
Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe butternut squash for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing butternut squash, look for one that feels heavy for its size and has a hard, tan skin. Avoid any with dark spots or soft areas, as these can indicate overripeness. The squash should feel firm and have a uniform color.
How should I store leftovers from the Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash?
Very! To keep your leftovers fresh, store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They’ll last up to 4 days. Be sure to let the dish cool before sealing it to maintain its moisture and flavor.
Can I freeze the Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash for later?
Absolutely! If you’d like to freeze this dish, let it cool completely and then portion it into airtight freezer bags. Squeeze out any excess air before sealing to prevent freezer burn. It should remain good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat it in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth for moisture.
What should I do if my garlic burns while cooking?
Oh no! If your garlic starts to brown too quickly, immediately remove it from the heat and combine it with the other ingredients. This will help diffuse the bitterness that can result from burnt garlic. To avoid this in the future, always sauté garlic on medium to low heat and keep a close eye—it usually only needs about a minute to become fragrant!
Are there any allergy considerations with this recipe?
Definitely! The Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash contains sausage, which is usually made from pork or chicken, so be sure to check for specific dietary restrictions if cooking for others. For a vegetarian option, substitute the sausage with veggie sausage. Also, if anyone has a dairy allergy, using vegan butter ensures everyone can enjoy this delightful dish.
Can I modify the vegetables in this dish?
Very much so! This recipe is quite versatile, so feel free to swap out Brussels sprouts for green beans or asparagus if that suits your taste better. You can even add more seasonal vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for extra nutrition and a flavor boost. The more the merrier!
Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: A Cozy Fall Delight You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Cube the butternut squash and toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 15-20 minutes.
- Prepare the Brussels sprouts and add to the baking sheet after 10 minutes of roasting squash. Roast for another 20-30 minutes until golden.
- Bring salted water to a boil in a large pot. Cook bow tie pasta for 8-10 minutes until al dente, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté sliced smoked sausage for 4-5 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Lower the heat, add minced garlic to the skillet, and sauté for 1 minute. Add butter and melt into the garlic to create a sauce.
- Incorporate cooked pasta and a splash of reserved pasta water into the skillet, tossing to combine well.
- Fold in roasted butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, and browned sausage. Sprinkle with smoked paprika and fresh thyme, mixing until even.
- Serve warm, garnished with additional thyme if desired. Enjoy your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash!
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