Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite

If you’re looking for a comforting and hearty meal to warm your soul this fall, look no further! My Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite is just the dish you need. It’s quick to prepare, packed with rich flavors, and perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. The combination of roasted butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, and smoked sausage creates a delightful medley that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

This recipe is dear to my heart because it captures the essence of autumn. Each bite reminds me of golden leaves and crisp evenings spent with loved ones. Plus, it’s versatile enough to suit various tastes. Let’s dive into this deliciousness together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 25 minutes of prep time, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
• One-Skillet Wonder: Fewer dishes mean more time spent enjoying your meal with family or friends.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The roasted butternut squash and Brussels sprouts bring a sweet and nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with smoky sausage.
• Family-Friendly: This dish is sure to please picky eaters while being nutritious enough for everyone.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can easily prepare the ingredients in advance for a stress-free dinner later.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make this delightful dish! You’ll find everything you need right here, and I promise they’re easy to work with.

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
• 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 get creative and make it your own with these fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Use chicken sausage or turkey sausage for a lighter option that still packs a punch!
• Add extra greens: Toss in some spinach or kale at the end for added nutrition and color.
• Change up the pasta: Try using whole grain or gluten-free pasta if you’re looking for healthier alternatives.
• Experiment with spices: Add red pepper flakes for heat or Italian seasoning for an aromatic twist.

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. Spreading it out on a parchment-lined baking sheet allows it to roast evenly. This caramelizes the natural sugars in the squash, making it sweet and tender—perfect for our pasta!

Step 2: Roast the Brussels Sprouts

Next up are those lovely Brussels sprouts! Trim them down and halve them before tossing with olive oil, salt, and pepper as well. Spread them on another baking sheet (or use the same one after removing the squash) and roast until golden brown. This not only enhances their flavor but also adds a nice crunch.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

While your veggies are roasting away, bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook your bow tie pasta according to package directions until al dente. Remember 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 they’re beautifully browned on both sides. This step adds depth of flavor—don’t skip it! Once browned, remove them from the skillet temporarily.

Step 5: Sauté Garlic & Combine Ingredients

In that same skillet, toss in minced garlic until fragrant; this will fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma! Add butter next—it melts beautifully into that garlicky goodness. Then add your drained pasta along with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika for extra flavor.

Step 6: Mix Everything Together

Finally, gently fold in those roasted butternut squash cubes, Brussels sprouts, cooked sausage slices, and fresh thyme leaves into your pasta mix. Give everything a good toss until combined; adjust seasoning as needed. This step harmonizes all those wonderful flavors!

Now you have a delightful Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash ready to serve! Enjoy every warm bite as you savor those cozy fall vibes!

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

Making this delightful dish is a breeze, and with a few handy tips, you can elevate it even further!

• Prep your ingredients ahead of time: Chopping your butternut squash and Brussels sprouts before you start cooking saves time and keeps the process smooth.
• Use fresh herbs: Fresh thyme adds a wonderful aroma and flavor. If you have access to other fresh herbs like parsley or sage, feel free to toss them in for an extra layer of taste.
• Don’t skip the pasta water: Reserving some pasta water allows you to adjust the sauce’s consistency. This helps the flavors cling better to the pasta!
• Experiment with different sausages: While smoked sausage is delicious, trying out chicken or turkey sausage can give a different yet equally satisfying flavor profile.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice: Just before serving, a splash of lemon juice can brighten up the dish and balance the richness of the butter sauce.

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

Serving your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash beautifully can turn this comforting dish into an eye-catching centerpiece for your dinner table!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of green not only adds color but also enhances freshness.
• Grated Parmesan cheese substitute: If you’re avoiding dairy, consider using nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the cheese.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add these flakes on top just before serving for an extra kick.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: A classic accompaniment that’s perfect for soaking up any leftover garlic butter sauce from your pasta.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with arugula, spinach, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing balances out the richness of the pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Any seasonal veggies tossed in olive oil and roasted until caramelized make for a lovely side that complements the main dish beautifully.
• Apple Crisp: End your meal on a sweet note with this warm dessert that embraces all things autumn—think cinnamon-spiced apples topped with oats.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in mind, you’re all set to create a memorable meal that will surely impress family and friends! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy delicious, comforting bowls throughout the week. Here’s how to make the most of your leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze your pasta, let it cool first.
• Portion out servings into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Be sure to label them with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to keep it moist.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring in between until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions regarding this recipe!

What is Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash?

Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash is a hearty dish that combines bow tie pasta with roasted butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, and smoked sausage tossed in garlic butter sauce, perfect for fall evenings.

Can I make Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash vegetarian?

Yes! Simply replace smoked sausage with plant-based sausage or skip it altogether. You can add more vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.

How long does Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash last in the fridge?

This dish lasts up to 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

What can I serve with Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash?

This dish is great on its own but pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread for extra comfort.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate that brings all the cozy fall vibes right into your kitchen. Enjoy making this delicious and satisfying dish for you and your loved ones. Don’t hesitate to share your experiences and variations—I’d love to hear from you! Happy cooking!