Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite

If you’re looking for an easy, hearty meal that captures the essence of fall, then look no further! This Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite is just what you need to warm up those chilly evenings. With its delightful combination of bow tie pasta, smoky sausage, and roasted butternut squash, it’s a dish that brings comfort and joy to the dinner table.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. It offers rich flavors and is ready in under 30 minutes, making it a go-to for any occasion. Plus, the one-skillet preparation means less cleanup—who doesn’t love that?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 25 minutes of prep time, you’ll have a delicious dinner on the table in no time.
• Family-Friendly: The comforting flavors of smoked sausage and roasted veggies are sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• One-Skillet Wonder: Less mess means more time to enjoy your meal with loved ones.
• Seasonal Ingredients: Butternut squash and Brussels sprouts bring all the autumn vibes while being nutritious and delicious.
• Make-Ahead Potential: Prepare the components in advance for a quick reheat when you’re pressed for time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this cozy pasta dish, we’re using simple and wholesome ingredients that highlight the best of fall. 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

• 225 g bow tie pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Sauce

• 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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Use chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option without losing flavor.
• Add more greens: Toss in some spinach or kale right at the end for extra nutrition and color.
• Change up the pasta: Try using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta according to your preference.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat in your dishes!

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. Spreading it out on a parchment-lined baking sheet ensures even roasting. With about 15-20 minutes in the oven, you’ll achieve that lovely caramelization that brings out its natural sweetness.

Step 2: Roast the Brussels Sprouts

While your squash roasts away, prepare those Brussels sprouts! Trim them down by removing any tough ends and cutting them in half. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper before placing them on another baking sheet. Roasting for about 20-30 minutes will give them a beautiful golden color and crispy edges.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. When it’s bubbling away, add your bow tie pasta according to package directions until al dente. Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water before draining—it’s great for adjusting sauce consistency later!

Step 4: Sauté the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat, drizzle in some olive oil. Slice your cooked smoked sausage into coins and sauté until browned on both sides—this adds wonderful depth of flavor! Once done, remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 5: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet where you cooked the sausage (hello flavor!), add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant; this usually takes just a minute or so. Then toss in butter until melted. Now add your drained pasta into this garlicky goodness and give it all a good toss!

Step 6: Combine Everything Together

Finally, gently fold in those roasted butternut squash cubes, crispy Brussels sprouts, cooked sausage slices, and fresh thyme leaves. Mix everything well while adjusting seasoning as needed—this step really melds all those amazing flavors together!

Now you’re ready to serve up bowls of this comforting Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash! Enjoy every bite with friends or family; it’s sure to become a favorite!

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

Creating the perfect Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash can be a delightful experience, and with a few handy tips, you’ll elevate it to a whole new level!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables like butternut squash and Brussels sprouts bring out the best flavors in this dish and enhance its nutritional value. Look for produce that is in season for the freshest taste.
• Don’t rush the roasting: Allowing the butternut squash and Brussels sprouts to roast until they’re caramelized adds depth to their flavor. The golden edges provide a lovely sweetness that complements the savory sausage perfectly.
• Reserve pasta water: Keeping some of the starchy pasta water before draining can help you create a creamier sauce if needed. A splash of this water can help bind everything together without making it too heavy.
• Experiment with spices: While smoked paprika adds a unique smoky flavor, feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices, such as rosemary or sage, which also pair beautifully with autumn flavors.
• Adjust the sausage: Choose a sausage that suits your taste preferences! Whether you go for spicy Cajun or milder smoked sausage, each variety will bring its own character to this comforting dish.

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

Serving your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash beautifully can make your meal feel extra special. Here are some presentation ideas that will impress your family or guests!

Garnishes

• Fresh thyme leaves: A sprinkle of fresh thyme not only enhances the dish’s aroma but also adds a pop of color.
• Grated Parmesan alternatives: If you’re avoiding dairy, try a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without animal products.
• Chili flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding chili flakes will give your dish an exciting kick!

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Warm, crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce while adding that comforting crunch.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light mixed green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette provides freshness and balance to your hearty pasta dish.
• Roasted Vegetables: Additional roasted seasonal vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes can complement the flavors in your pasta while adding more nutrients to your meal.
• Steamed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans tossed in olive oil and sea salt offer a delightful crunch and gorgeous color contrast on your plate.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash dinner will not only be delicious but also visually appealing! Enjoy this wonderful fall favorite any night of the week.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance and store it for quick, delicious dinners 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 pasta cool completely.
• Portion out individual servings in freezer-safe containers.
• Seal tightly and label with the date. It can be frozen for up to 2 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 sticking.
• Stir occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you as you prepare your dish.

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

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute bow tie pasta with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli, while keeping the cooking times in mind.

How can I customize the Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash recipe?

You can add your favorite seasonal vegetables, like kale or spinach, and even switch up the herbs based on what you have on hand. Experimenting is part of the fun!

Is this Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This dish stores well, making it a great option for meal prep. Just follow the storage instructions above to enjoy it throughout the week!

What can I serve with Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash?

A simple side salad or some crusty bread pairs wonderfully with this dish, enhancing its comforting flavors and providing balance to your meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to try this Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash recipe as I am to share it with you! It’s not only a breeze to whip up but also packed with delicious fall flavors that will warm your heart on chilly evenings. Enjoy making it and savor every bite—your kitchen is about to smell incredible! Happy cooking!