Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite

If you’re looking for a cozy dinner that warms both the heart and the tummy, you’ve found it! This Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite is truly a gem in my recipe collection. It combines tender butternut squash, savory smoked sausage, and crisp Brussels sprouts into a delightful one-skillet meal. Perfect for those busy weeknights or when friends come over for a casual gathering, this dish is not just delicious—it’s also simple to whip up!

What makes this recipe so special is its rich autumn flavors, thanks to the smoked paprika and fresh thyme. You’ll love how the sweetness of the squash pairs with the savory notes of the sausage. It’s a dish that invites everyone to gather around the table and enjoy good food together.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This meal comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings when time is tight.
• Family-Friendly: With its comforting flavors and colorful ingredients, even picky eaters will enjoy this hearty dish.
• One-Skillet Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to relax after dinner, which every home cook appreciates!
• Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with nutritious veggies and protein, this recipe offers a balanced meal without compromising on taste.
• Perfectly Seasonal: Celebrate fall with seasonal produce that brings warmth and comfort to your dinner table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients shouldn’t be a hassle! This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients you can easily find at your local grocery store. 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 make it your own with these tasty variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken sausage or even a plant-based sausage for a different twist!
• Add more veggies: Feel free to toss in some kale or spinach for added nutrition and color.
• Change up the pasta shape: Bow tie pasta is fun, but penne or fusilli would work great too!
• Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk right before serving for an extra luxurious texture.

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 the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Roasting these cubes helps caramelize their natural sugars, giving them that sweet flavor we all love.

Step 2: Roast the Brussels Sprouts

While your squash is roasting (about 15-20 minutes), prepare the Brussels sprouts. Trim and halve them before tossing with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread these on another baking sheet. Roasting them until golden brown enhances their nutty flavor while keeping them tender-crisp.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add your bow tie pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water before draining; it can help adjust sauce consistency later!

Step 4: Brown the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Slice your smoked sausage into coins and cook until browned on both sides—this adds depth of flavor. Once done, remove from heat and set aside.

Step 5: Create Your Garlic Butter Sauce

In that same skillet (don’t wash it!), add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant—it takes just about a minute! Then add butter until it melts completely. Toss in your cooked pasta next; coating it in garlic butter gives every bite incredible flavor.

Step 6: Combine Everything Together

Finally, add your roasted butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, cooked sausage, and fresh thyme into the skillet with pasta. Gently mix everything together while adjusting seasoning as needed with salt and pepper. This step ensures all those lovely flavors meld beautifully!

Now you’re ready to serve up this fantastic Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash! Enjoy every hearty bite of this comforting dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!

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

Cooking should be a joyful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll elevate your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash to new heights!

• Choose the right sausage: Selecting a quality smoked sausage enhances the dish’s flavor profile. Cajun or andouille sausages bring a delightful kick, while regular smoked sausage provides a milder taste that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of butternut squash.

• Don’t skip the roasting: Roasting the squash and Brussels sprouts caramelizes their natural sugars, intensifying their flavors. This adds a wonderful depth to your pasta dish and makes it even more comforting.

• Reserve pasta water: When draining your pasta, save a cup of the starchy cooking water. Adding this reserved water to your skillet can help create a silky sauce that clings perfectly to each bow tie.

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh thyme not only adds vibrant flavor but also brightens up the dish. Feel free to experiment with other herbs like parsley or sage for added complexity.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone’s palate is different! Taste your dish as you go and adjust salt, pepper, and smoked paprika levels to suit your preferences for a truly personalized meal.

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

Presentation is key when it comes to enjoying this delicious dish! Here are some ideas for serving it up beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: Sprinkle some finely chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors of the dish.
• Grated parmesan or vegan cheese: A light dusting of grated cheese adds creaminess that enhances every bite. If you’re avoiding dairy, opt for nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without animal products.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can add an exciting kick!

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread makes for the perfect accompaniment to soak up any extra garlic butter sauce from your pasta.
• Mixed green salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty pasta.
• Roasted root vegetables: Seasonal root veggies like carrots and sweet potatoes roasted with olive oil and herbs make an excellent side that echoes the warm flavors of autumn.
• Steamed green beans: Crisp-tender green beans tossed in lemon juice add brightness and balance out the richness of the pasta dish.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash will not only be delicious but also beautifully presented, making it perfect for family dinners or entertaining friends! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy a hearty dish throughout the week. You can prepare the components ahead of time, allowing for quick assembly when you’re ready to eat.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Portion out the pasta into freezer-safe containers.
• Seal tightly, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

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

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious dish!

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

Absolutely! While this recipe calls for smoked sausage, you can use chicken sausage or turkey sausage as alternatives. These options will still provide that satisfying flavor without altering the essence of the dish.

How can I make Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash vegetarian?

To make this recipe vegetarian, simply omit the sausage and add extra vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers. You could also include chickpeas for added protein and texture.

What other vegetables work well in Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash?

Feel free to experiment with seasonal vegetables! Sweet potatoes, kale, or even zucchini would complement this dish beautifully. Just remember to adjust roasting times based on how long each vegetable takes to cook.

Final Thoughts

I hope you love making this Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash as much as I do! It’s not only a comforting meal but also a wonderful way to embrace all those autumn flavors. Enjoy the cozy vibes it brings to your kitchen and share it with loved ones. Happy cooking!