Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish to warm your heart this fall, you’ve landed in the right place! This Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite is one of my all-time favorites. It brings together the delightful flavors of roasted butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, and savory smoked sausage, all tossed with bow tie pasta in a simple garlic butter sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this recipe is a delicious way to embrace the season.

What makes this dish truly special is its ease of preparation and rich flavors. You can have it on the table in just about 25 minutes, making it ideal for those evenings when time is tight but you still want something hearty and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 25 minutes of cooking time, you can whip up this delightful meal in no time.
• Family-friendly: Kids love pasta, and the addition of colorful veggies makes it appealing for everyone.
• One-skillet wonder: Less mess means more time enjoying dinner and less time spent on cleanup.
• Flavor-packed: The combination of smoked sausage, roasted squash, and fresh herbs creates a comforting taste that’s perfect for fall.
• Versatile: This recipe is easily adaptable; feel free to switch out ingredients based on what you have on hand!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that create a fantastic balance of flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Roasted Veggies

• 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 Sausage & 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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily make it your own with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using grilled chicken or turkey sausage for a leaner option!
• Change up the veggies: Feel free to include other autumn favorites like kale or sweet potatoes.
• Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of crème fraîche for an extra indulgent touch.
• Add some heat: Toss in red pepper flakes if you like your dishes with a kick!

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

Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash

Preheat your oven to 200°C (about 400°F). Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread it out on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer. Roasting for 15-20 minutes caramelizes the natural sugars in the squash, enhancing its sweetness.

Step 2: Roast the Brussels Sprouts

While your squash roasts away, prepare those lovely Brussels sprouts! Trim and halve them before tossing with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on another baking sheet. Roasting them at 200°C until they’re crispy will bring out their nutty flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your bow tie pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Don’t forget to save some pasta water before draining—this starchy liquid will help bind everything together later!

Step 4: Sauté the Smoked Sausage

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

Step 5: Create the Garlic Butter Sauce

In that same skillet (no need to wash it!), add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—this only takes about one minute! Then add butter until melted. Toss in your cooked pasta while seasoning with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. This creates a luscious coating for your pasta.

Step 6: Combine Everything Together

Finally, add in those roasted butternut squash cubes, crispy Brussels sprouts, cooked sausage slices, and fresh thyme leaves. Gently mix everything together so each bite is bursting with flavor! Adjust any seasonings as needed before serving.

Enjoy this Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash as part of your fall meals; it’s bound to become a family favorite!

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

Creating a delicious and satisfying Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash is easy! Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Choose fresh ingredients: Using fresh butternut squash and Brussels sprouts enhances the flavors and textures in your pasta. Fresh produce brings out the vibrant colors of fall, making your dish visually appealing as well.

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

• Reserve pasta water: Keeping a bit of the pasta cooking water can help adjust the sauce’s consistency. If your sauce feels too dry, add a splash of reserved water to create a silky texture that clings to the pasta.

• Experiment with sausage varieties: While smoked sausage adds fantastic flavor, don’t hesitate to try different types! Chicken or turkey sausage can be great alternatives if you’re looking for a lighter option—just make sure it’s cooked before adding it to the skillet.

• Season to taste: Everyone has different preferences when it comes to seasoning. Taste your dish before serving and adjust salt, pepper, and smoked paprika as needed for the perfect balance of flavors!

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

When it comes to presenting this hearty dish, there are plenty of creative ways to serve it up that will delight both your eyes and taste buds!

Garnishes

• Fresh thyme leaves: A sprinkle of fresh thyme not only looks beautiful but also complements the flavors in the dish beautifully.
• Grated Parmesan cheese alternative: For a creamy finish, consider using nutritional yeast or a plant-based cheese alternative that offers a cheesy flavor without dairy.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Warm, crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate. Plus, it’s always a favorite at dinner tables!
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta while adding freshness.
• Roasted carrots: Sweet roasted carrots add another layer of fall flavors and color to your meal. A drizzle of honey (or agave syrup) enhances their natural sweetness!
• Steamed green beans: Bright green beans add crunch and nutrition. Steaming them lightly keeps them crisp-tender and perfect alongside your pasta.

Enjoy every comforting bite of this amazing fall favorite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, ensuring you have hearty, flavorful dinners ready to go during your busy week.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the pasta squash cool completely before freezing.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed.
• Alternatively, microwave in short bursts until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful recipe!

Can I make this Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the smoked sausage with your favorite plant-based sausage or mushrooms for a hearty, meat-free option.

How can I customize my Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash?

Feel free to add your favorite seasonal vegetables like kale or spinach. You can also adjust the spices according to your taste preferences for a personalized touch!

What can I serve with Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash?

This dish stands alone beautifully, but you could serve it with a light salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.

Can I use other types of pasta in this recipe?

Yes! While bow tie pasta works wonderfully, feel free to substitute with penne, fusilli, or any pasta shape you enjoy.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash! It’s a special dish that brings warmth and comfort on those crisp fall evenings. The combination of roasted butternut squash and Brussels sprouts with savory sausage creates a delightful harmony of flavors. Enjoy creating this comforting meal, and don’t hesitate to share it with family and friends. Happy cooking!