Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that captures the essence of fall, then you’ve found it! This Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite is a dish that warms both the belly and the heart. It’s one of those recipes that I keep coming back to during the crisp autumn evenings when all I want is something hearty and satisfying. The combination of roasted butternut squash, sautéed Brussels sprouts, and smoked sausage creates a delightful medley of flavors that feels like a hug in a bowl.

Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a gathering with friends, this dish is perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to whip up and makes your kitchen smell divine! Plus, it’s great for meal prep—just make a big batch, and you’ll have delicious leftovers ready to enjoy throughout the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 25 minutes of active cooking time, you can have this comforting dinner on the table in no time.
• Family-Friendly: The blend of flavors in this pasta dish will please even the pickiest eaters at your table!
• Wholesome Ingredients: Made with simple, fresh ingredients, it’s a healthy option that doesn’t compromise on taste.
• One-Skillet Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to relax after dinner. Just one skillet does it all!
• Perfectly Seasonal: This recipe highlights autumn’s best produce, making it a great way to celebrate the season.

Ingredients You’ll Need

In this delightful recipe, we use simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need to create this amazing dish:

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 Sausage Mixture

• 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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand:

• Swap the protein: Use chicken sausage or turkey sausage in place of smoked sausage for a lighter option.
• Change up the veggies: Add spinach or kale for extra greens or switch out Brussels sprouts for green beans.
• Make it vegetarian: Omit the sausage entirely and add more roasted veggies like bell peppers or zucchini.
• Try different pasta shapes: If bow tie isn’t your favorite, feel free to use penne or fusilli instead!

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

Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash

Preheat your oven to 200°C. Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spreading it out evenly on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet allows it to roast perfectly without steaming. Roast for about 15-20 minutes until it’s tender and slightly caramelized—this brings out its natural sweetness!

Step 2: Roast the Brussels Sprouts

While the squash is roasting, trim and halve your Brussels sprouts. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper before spreading them out on another parchment-lined baking sheet. Roasting these at 200°C for 20-30 minutes gives them a beautiful golden color and enhances their flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your bow tie pasta according to package directions until al dente—usually about 8-10 minutes. Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water before draining; it helps create a nice sauce later!

Step 4: Cook the Smoked Sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a bit of olive oil. Slice your smoked sausage into coins and add them to the skillet. Cooking until browned on both sides not only adds flavor but also gives them that lovely crispy texture we love.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Remove the sausage from the skillet once cooked. In that same skillet, cook minced garlic until fragrant—it only takes about 30 seconds! Add butter next; as it melts, toss in your drained pasta along with some reserved pasta water. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika for an extra kick.

Step 6: Final Touches

Add in those roasted butternut squash cubes, Brussels sprouts, cooked sausage pieces, and fresh thyme leaves. Gently mix everything together so each piece gets coated in that delicious garlic butter sauce. Adjust seasoning if needed—taste is key here!

And there you have it! A stunning Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash dish that’s not only delicious but also brings warmth to your table this fall. Enjoy every bite!

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

Cooking can be a breeze, especially when you have a few handy tips up your sleeve! Here are some pro tips to make your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash even more delightful.

• Prep Ahead: Chop the butternut squash and Brussels sprouts the night before. This saves time and makes dinner prep a whole lot quicker!

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme not only adds flavor but also brightens the dish. If you have any other fresh herbs on hand, like parsley or sage, feel free to sprinkle those in too!

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Aim for al dente pasta for the best texture. It will continue cooking slightly when mixed with the other warm ingredients, ensuring it doesn’t turn mushy.

• Experiment with Sausage Types: While this recipe calls for smoked sausage, don’t hesitate to try different varieties! Chicken sausage or turkey sausage can also work wonderfully while keeping it light.

• Save Some Pasta Water: Retaining a bit of pasta water allows you to adjust the sauce’s consistency. Just add a splash if your dish seems dry after mixing in all the ingredients.

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

Presentation can make all the difference in elevating your meal! Here are some delightful ways to serve up your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash that will impress family and friends alike.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that contrasts beautifully with the warm tones of the dish.
• Grated Parmesan (or Vegan Alternative): For those who enjoy cheese, adding a light dusting of grated Parmesan enhances flavor and creaminess without overpowering.
• Toasted Pumpkin Seeds: These add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor, perfectly complementing the sweet butternut squash.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: A classic pairing! Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce on your plate.
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.
• Roasted Root Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like carrots and parsnips roasted with olive oil and herbs bring out their natural sweetness and offer extra nutrients.
• Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans tossed with olive oil and lemon zest serve as a vibrant side that balances out this hearty meal.

With these tips and serving ideas, you’ll create an inviting dining experience that makes your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash truly unforgettable! Enjoy every comforting bite as you savor the flavors of fall.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor its delicious flavors throughout the week. You can easily store what you don’t eat right away and enjoy it later!

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Remove as much air as possible before sealing.
• 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 prevent drying out.
• Stir gently until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

Have questions about this delectable dish? Here are some common queries!

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

Absolutely! You can substitute with any smoked sausage variety that suits your taste. Just ensure it’s fully cooked before adding it to the dish.

How long does it take to make the Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash?

This recipe is designed to be quick and easy, taking just about 25 minutes of prep time and another 30 minutes of cooking. In total, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in under an hour!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! The Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash is great for meal prepping. It stores well in the fridge and can be frozen for later enjoyment.

Can I add more vegetables to this pasta dish?

Definitely! Feel free to include your favorite seasonal vegetables such as kale, spinach, or even bell peppers. This will enhance both flavor and nutrition.

What can I serve alongside the Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash?

A light salad or crusty bread pairs beautifully with this dish, making your meal even more satisfying!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash as much as I do! It’s a comforting dish that embodies all the warm flavors of fall. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or enjoying leftovers throughout the week, it’s sure to bring smiles around your table. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your experience with me!