Name: Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: A Cozy Fall Delight!
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-492195H38M36S
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 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; 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

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Introduction to Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash

With the leaves turning fiery shades of red and orange and a certain crispness to the air, I start craving warm, soul-soothing food. Enter my Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash. That delicious mix of roasted butternut squash, hearty Brussels sprouts, and smoky sausage threaded through bow tie pasta is the prescription for either a weary day or an adoring dinner crowd. Simple ingredients and ease of preparation ensure you’ll taste each morsel as you soak in the flavors of fall.

Why You’ll Love This Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash

This Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash isn’t optional for busy moms or professionals. It is extremely time-efficient. One can have it ready in an hour, although most of that time is baking non-active. The smoked sausage flavor goes very well with the naturally sweet taste of the butternut squash, which is very warm-hug-on-a-chilly-evening type yummy. Not to forget, it is nutritionally dense, which means that the excuse of not having time to prepare dinner could be made for neither you nor your family.

Ingredients for Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash

Gathering the right ingredients is a crucial step in creating your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash. Here’s what you’ll need:

Butternut Squash: Sweet and nutty, this orange-fleshed gourd adds a delightful richness. It’s a staple of fall and brings so much flavor.
Olive Oil: A drizzle of good olive oil enhances the roasting process, making the squash and Brussels sprouts caramelize beautifully.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings are key. Use them to bring out the flavors of your ingredients.

Brussels Sprouts: These little cabbages pack a punch! They’re full of nutrients and add a wonderful crunch to your dish.
Bow Tie Pasta: This fun shape holds sauce well. It’s perfect for a hearty meal and is sure to please picky eaters.
Smoked Sausage: Choose cajun, andouille, or regular smoked sausage for that robust flavor. It’s a game-changer and adds depth to your dish.

Garlic: Minced garlic gets fragrant and adds a tasty kick. Your kitchen will smell heavenly as it cooks.
Butter: Just a bit of butter adds richness and a creamy texture to the mix.
Smoked Paprika: This spice gives a subtle smokiness, complementing the sausage while brightening the fall flavors.

Fresh Thyme: A sprinkle of fresh thyme adds an aromatic note that ties all the flavors together beautifully.

For those looking to customize, you could substitute sweet potatoes for butternut squash when it’s out of season. Feel free to get creative with your choice of pasta shapes too!

Don’t worry—you’ll find the exact quantities for these ingredients at the end of the article, making it easy for you to prepare this cozy dish!

How to Make Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash

Creating your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash is as satisfying as it is delicious. Follow my step-by-step guide to make this warm, comforting dish that your loved ones will crave!

Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash

First things first, let’s get that butternut squash roasting. Preheat your oven to 200°C (or 400°F). In a bowl, toss your cubed squash with a tablespoon of olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Make sure it’s all coated well.

Spread the squash in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Allow it to roast for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until it’s tender and caramelized. The smell will fill your kitchen, creating a cozy atmosphere!

Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

Next, let’s tackle the Brussels sprouts. Trim off the ends and halve them. Another bowl, another drizzle of olive oil—about two tablespoons should do it. Season with salt and pepper.

Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet and pop them in the oven to roast alongside the squash for 20 to 30 minutes. The outer leaves will get crispy, adding a delightful texture to our dish.

Step 3: Cook the Bow Tie Pasta

While your veggies roast, it’s pasta time! Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Toss in your bow tie pasta and cook it according to the package directions until al dente. This usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes, but keep an eye on it.

Once cooked to perfection, drain the pasta, but don’t forget to save about half a cup of that lovely pasta water. You’ll thank me when you add it later!

Step 4: Brown the Smoked Sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat, get a small drizzle of olive oil heating. Slice your smoked sausage into coins and add them to the skillet. Cook until they’re golden brown on both sides, usually about 5 minutes.

Once they’re perfectly browned, remove them from the skillet and set them aside. The flavor in that skillet? Pure gold!

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, toss in a few tablespoons of butter and let it melt. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it in the garlicky goodness.

Now, bring it all together! Add in your roasted butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, browned sausage, and sprinkle in that smoked paprika and fresh thyme. Gently mix everything until it’s well combined. Taste it and adjust the seasoning as you like; sometimes, all it needs is a sprinkle of salt!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Finally, it’s time to dig in! Transfer your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash to a serving dish. Garnish with extra thyme if you’re feeling fancy. Serve it warm and enjoy every comforting bite.

With the vibrant colors and delightful aromas wafting through your home, I promise this dish will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Tips for Success

Roast the veggies on the same baking sheet to save time and dishes—just keep an eye on cooking times.
If space or pans are limited, prepare ingredients in batches for a smoother process.

To boost flavors, let the sausage and garlic brown slightly without burning.
Always save some pasta water; it’s great for adjusting sauce consistency.
Experiment with different sausage types; each brings a unique flavor dimension.

Equipment Needed for Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash

Baking Sheets: Use parchment-lined sheets for easy cleanup. If you don’t have them, any oven-safe dish will work.
Large Pot: Essential for boiling pasta. A deep skillet can substitute if needed.
Skillet: A non-stick skillet makes browning the sausage and sautéing easier.

Mixing Bowls: Grab a few—these are perfect for tossing and combining ingredients.
Measuring Spoons: Useful for precise seasoning. If you don’t have them, use a regular spoon to estimate.

Variations of Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash

Vegetarian Option: Swap the smoked sausage for chickpeas or crumbled tempeh for a hearty, meat-free meal.

Gluten-Free Pasta: Use gluten-free bow tie pasta or any gluten-free pasta alternative to cater to dietary needs.
Spicy Kick: Add in some crushed red pepper flakes or sauté diced jalapeños with the garlic for a spicy twist.
Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or a dairy-free cheese substitute on top before serving for a creamy finish.

Extra Veggies: Feel free to throw in some spinach or kale towards the end for added color and nutrients.

Serving Suggestions for Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash

Fresh Salad: Pair with a crisp arugula or spinach salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
Crispy Bread: Serve with warm, crusty garlic bread or a baguette to soak up the savory flavors.

Wine Pairing: A light white wine, like Pinot Grigio, complements the dish beautifully.
Presentation: Use a colorful serving bowl and garnish with extra thyme for an eye-catching display.

FAQs about Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash

Can I make Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish holds up well in the fridge. Prepare it earlier in the day, then simply reheat when you’re ready to serve. Just add a splash of reserved pasta water during reheating to keep it nice and moist.

What type of sausage works best for this recipe?

I love using smoked sausage for that deep, savory flavor. Cajun or andouille varieties add a nice kick, while regular smoked sausage keeps it classic. Feel free to pick your favorite!

Can I use other vegetables in this dish?

Definitely! While butternut squash and Brussels sprouts shine in this recipe, you could also swap in sweet potatoes, bell peppers, or even zucchini. Just adjust roasting times as needed!

Is this dish suitable for freezing?

While it’s not ideal to freeze pasta dishes, you can freeze the roasted veggies and sausage separately. When you’re ready to enjoy, just cook fresh pasta and mix them together!

What’s a good side dish to serve with Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash?

A simple arugula salad or a serving of garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this cozy dish. It adds a light, refreshing touch that complements the hearty pasta.

Final Thoughts

Every time I make this Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash, I swear it’s like putting a blanket around my family. The sweetness of the butternut squash is the perfect partner for that hearty sausage dancing together, it just sings of the season with every bite. It’s dinner yes, but it’s also an elbow’s length invitation to come to the table, share some chuckles and make memories. Guaranteed, whether rushed on a weeknight or taken at leisure on Sunday, this will really bring warmth and ambience to your house. So get your sleeves rolled up and let some autumn magic happen in your kitchen!