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’re in for a treat! This Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite is not just a meal; it’s an experience. With the warm flavors of roasted butternut squash and Brussels sprouts, combined with hearty smoked sausage, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. It’s quick to make and even quicker to disappear from your dinner table!

There’s something special about gathering around a warm meal as the leaves change color outside. This pasta dish brings comfort and joy, making it one of my all-time favorites. Plus, it’s versatile enough to impress guests or keep your family satisfied after a long day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: In just 25 minutes, you can have a delicious dinner on the table.
• One-skillet meal: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your food and company.
• Family-friendly: The flavors are rich yet approachable, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Wholesome ingredients: Packed with veggies and protein, this dish is as nutritious as it is tasty.
• Perfect for autumn: The seasonal ingredients make it a wonderful choice for fall evenings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe features simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find at any grocery store. You’ll love how they come together to create a comforting and flavorful 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 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 flexible, so feel free to get creative! Here are some fun ways to switch things up:

• Change the pasta shape: Use penne or fusilli instead of bow tie pasta for a new twist.
• Add more veggies: Toss in spinach or kale for extra greens that cook down nicely.
• Go meatless: Swap the sausage for chickpeas or lentils for a delicious vegetarian option.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes if you like some heat in your dish.

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. Spread it out on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roasting brings out its natural sweetness while adding depth of flavor. Bake for about 15-20 minutes until tender.

Step 2: Roast the Brussels Sprouts

While the squash is roasting, prepare your Brussels sprouts. Trim and halve them before tossing with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on another baking sheet in a single layer. Roasting these will give them a nice caramelization that enhances their flavor—baking them at the same time makes efficient use of your oven.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook the bow tie pasta according to package directions until al dente. Once cooked, drain it but reserve some pasta water; this starchy water will help bind everything together later.

Step 4: Sauté the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Slice your sausage into coins and cook until browned on both sides. This step adds texture and flavor from caramelizing the sausage. Remove it from the skillet once done and set aside.

Step 5: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

In that same skillet (no need to clean it!), cook minced garlic until fragrant; this should take about 30 seconds—be careful not to burn it! Add butter until melted then toss in the cooked pasta along with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Coating the pasta in this sauce makes every bite delightful.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Now add those roasted butternut squash cubes, Brussels sprouts, cooked sausage slices, and fresh thyme leaves into your skillet. Gently mix everything together so each piece gets coated in that wonderful garlic butter sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed—this step ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.

And there you have it! Your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash is ready to be enjoyed!

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

Cooking this delightful dish can be a breeze with the right tips to ensure everything turns out perfectly. Here are some helpful suggestions to elevate your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash experience.

• Prepping Ingredients Ahead: Chop and prepare your butternut squash and Brussels sprouts in advance. This saves time when you’re ready to cook, making the process smoother and stress-free.

• Roast Veggies with Care: Ensure your vegetables are spread out in a single layer on the baking sheet. This promotes even roasting, allowing them to caramelize beautifully, which enhances their flavor.

• Reserve Pasta Water: Be sure to save some pasta water before draining. Adding a splash of it to your skillet can help create a silky sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta.

• Fresh Herbs Make a Difference: Don’t skip on fresh thyme! It adds a lovely aromatic flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully, making your dish even more fragrant and inviting.

• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Always taste before serving! Adjusting salt, pepper, or even adding an extra pinch of smoked paprika can elevate the flavors to match your personal preference.

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

Presenting this comforting pasta dish is all about showcasing its vibrant colors and rich textures. With just a few finishing touches, you can create an inviting meal that’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of bright green parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to each plate.
• Grated Parmesan Alternative: For those who prefer a dairy-free option, use nutritional yeast as a cheesy topping that boosts flavor without animal-derived ingredients.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: If you enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top for an extra kick!

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with seasonal greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta while adding crunch and brightness.
• Garlic Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic-infused olive oil make for perfect dipping companions alongside your flavorful pasta.
• Roasted Root Vegetables: Carrots, sweet potatoes, and parsnips roasted with herbs bring earthy sweetness that complements the dish beautifully.
• Steamed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans tossed in lemon juice offer a refreshing contrast to the hearty pasta while keeping things light and nutritious.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash will not only be delicious but also visually stunning – perfect for sharing with loved ones! Enjoy every bite of this autumnal delight.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can enjoy it throughout the week, making it a convenient choice for busy nights. Here’s how to store and preserve its deliciousness.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pasta to cool completely before storing.
• Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the dish cool down completely.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. For best quality, consume within a month.

Reheating

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

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe.

Can I make Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash vegetarian?

Yes! You can substitute the smoked sausage with a plant-based sausage or leave it out entirely. Just add extra vegetables for a hearty meal.

What can I serve with Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash?

This dish can stand on its own but pairs beautifully with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up any leftover sauce!

How do I customize Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash?

Feel free to add other seasonal vegetables like kale or spinach for extra nutrition. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices based on your taste preferences!

Is Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This recipe stores well and is great for meal prepping, allowing you to enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this comforting Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience full of rich flavors that capture the essence of fall. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing it with loved ones, this dish is sure to warm hearts and bellies alike. Enjoy every bite and feel free to share your thoughts after trying it—I’d love to hear from you!