Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that captures the essence of fall, then you’ve stumbled upon a gem! This Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite is not only quick to whip up but also brimming with flavors that warm the heart. Imagine tender bow tie pasta mingling with sweet roasted butternut squash, vibrant Brussels sprouts, and savory smoked sausage—all tossed in a luscious garlic butter sauce. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

What makes this dish extra special is its comforting nature. It’s a recipe my family keeps coming back to, whether it’s a casual dinner after school or a gathering with friends. Trust me; once you try it, you’ll understand why it has become such a beloved favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This delightful dish comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: With its delicious flavors and colorful ingredients, even picky eaters will enjoy every bite.
• One-Skillet Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to relax after dinner—a win-win!
• Seasonal Goodness: Featuring fall favorites like butternut squash and Brussels sprouts, it celebrates the season’s best produce.
• Make Ahead: Prep the veggies and sausage ahead of time for a faster cooking experience on busy nights.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that make this dish shine! You might already have many of these staples at home. 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 Dish

• 225 g bow tie pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 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 mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a lighter option while keeping that smoky flavor intact.
• Add more greens: Toss in some spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for an extra nutritional boost.
• Change up the pasta: If bow tie isn’t your style, any short pasta like penne or fusilli will work beautifully.
• Make it vegetarian: Leave out the sausage completely and add chickpeas for protein 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. Start by tossing cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spreading it out in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet helps achieve that beautiful caramelization as it roasts for 15-20 minutes. This step enhances sweetness while giving it a lovely texture!

Step 2: Roast the Brussels Sprouts

Next, trim and halve those vibrant Brussels sprouts. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper before placing them on another baking sheet. Roasting them at 200°C for about 20-30 minutes brings out their nuttiness while adding an irresistible crunch.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil while your veggies roast away. Cook the bow tie pasta according to package directions until al dente—this typically takes around 10-12 minutes. Remember to reserve some pasta water before draining; you can use it later to adjust the sauce’s consistency if needed!

Step 4: Sauté the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and slice your cooked smoked sausage into coins. Cooking until browned on both sides adds depth of flavor that complements all those roasted veggies beautifully. Once done, remove from heat and set aside.

Step 5: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet where you cooked the sausage, sauté minced garlic until fragrant—it won’t take long! Add in butter until melted; this will create an irresistible sauce coating your pasta later on. Toss in your drained pasta along with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika for an extra kick.

Step 6: Combine Everything Together

Finally, add those gorgeous roasted butternut squash cubes, crispy Brussels sprouts, cooked sausage slices, and fresh thyme into your skillet. Gently mix everything together until well combined—this is where all those delicious flavors come together! Adjust seasoning as needed to ensure it’s just right.

And there you have it! Your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash is ready to be enjoyed—perfectly hearty for those cool autumn evenings. Enjoy every bite!

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

Creating a delicious and satisfying Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash is all about the right techniques and timing, so here are some helpful tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly!

• Prep Ahead: Chopping your vegetables and measuring out ingredients before you start cooking can save you time and reduce stress while preparing the dish. This way, everything is ready to go when you need it!
• Roast to Perfection: Make sure your butternut squash and Brussels sprouts are spread out on the baking sheet in a single layer. This helps them roast evenly, achieving that lovely caramelization that adds depth of flavor to your pasta.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cooking your bow tie pasta until just al dente ensures that it retains a bit of firmness. This texture holds up better when tossed with the sauce and other ingredients, creating a more enjoyable eating experience.
• Balance Your Flavors: Taste as you go! Adjusting seasoning with salt, pepper, or even a squeeze of lemon juice at the end can elevate the dish. Each ingredient adds its own character, so find the perfect balance that suits your palate.
• Experiment with Herbs: While fresh thyme adds a wonderful flavor, feel free to experiment with other herbs like parsley or sage. These fresh additions can enhance the overall aroma and taste of your autumn dish.

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

Serving this hearty pasta dish is just as important as making it! Here are some delightful ways to present your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash that will impress family and friends.

Garnishes

• Freshly Grated Parmesan: A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds an irresistible umami flavor and creamy texture that complements the dish beautifully.
• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Adding a handful of chopped parsley or additional thyme on top just before serving not only enhances visual appeal but also gives a fresh burst of flavor.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: The classic accompaniment to any pasta dish! Warm, buttery garlic bread pairs perfectly by providing a crunchy contrast to the hearty pasta.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette can refresh the palate between bites of rich pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Keep it seasonal by serving additional roasted vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes. Their natural sweetness complements the flavors in your pasta.
• Steamed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans add color and crunch to your plate while being an easy side that doesn’t compete with the main dish’s flavors.

Enjoy creating this warm and inviting meal that captures the essence of fall!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it ahead of time and enjoy delicious, comforting meals throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the dish cool entirely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. For best quality, label your containers with the date.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to moisten.
• Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this lovely recipe:

Can I make Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can replace the smoked sausage with your favorite plant-based sausage or even add more vegetables for a delicious vegetarian option.

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

This delightful dish takes about 25 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook, making it a quick and easy meal perfect for busy autumn evenings!

What can I serve with Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash?

This pasta dish is hearty enough on its own but pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or crusty bread for an extra touch.

Can I use other types of squash?

Yes! While butternut squash is used here, you could easily substitute it with acorn squash or kabocha squash for a different flavor profile!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash becomes a favorite in your home! It’s not only quick and easy to prepare but also brings the warm flavors of fall right to your table. Enjoy crafting this comforting dish and share it with loved ones. Happy cooking!