Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite

If you’re looking for a cozy, hearty dish that captures the essence of autumn, you’ve found it! This Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will warm your heart and belly. Picture this: tender bow tie pasta tossed with savory smoked sausage, roasted butternut squash, and crispy Brussels sprouts, all enveloped in a luscious garlic butter sauce. It’s the perfect recipe for busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

What makes this dish even more special is how quickly it comes together. In just 25 minutes, you can have a wholesome meal ready to share with your loved ones. It’s not only comforting but also packed with seasonal ingredients that celebrate fall. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into this delightful dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This one-skillet meal comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Family-Friendly: Packed with flavors kids love while still being nutritious—everyone will gather around the table for seconds!
• Seasonal Ingredients: Featuring fresh butternut squash and Brussels sprouts, this dish captures the essence of autumn.
• Comforting Flavors: The combination of smoked sausage and garlic butter creates a satisfying flavor profile that’s hard to resist.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can roast the veggies ahead of time for an even quicker prep on dinner night.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the simple, wholesome ingredients that make this dish shine! Each element plays a crucial role in delivering rich flavors and vibrant colors to your plate. Gather these goodies to get started:

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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand:

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a lighter option!
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale at the end for added nutrition and color.
• Change the pasta shape: If you don’t have bow tie pasta, any small pasta works great—think penne or fusilli!
• Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of cream or plant-based cream alternative for a richer sauce.

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. Spreading it out on a parchment-lined baking sheet ensures even roasting. Roast for about 15-20 minutes until tender and caramelized. This step adds wonderful sweetness that perfectly balances the savory elements of the dish.

Step 2: Roast the Brussels Sprouts

While your squash roasts away, trim and halve your Brussels sprouts. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper before spreading them out on another baking sheet. Roast these beauties for about 20-30 minutes until they are crispy on the outside. The slight bitterness from roasting enhances their flavor beautifully!

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook bow tie pasta according to package directions until al dente. Remember to reserve some pasta water before draining; it can help loosen up your sauce later if needed!

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 browned on both sides. This step adds depth of flavor through caramelization. Once browned, remove them from the skillet and set aside.

Step 5: Prepare Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet where you cooked the sausage, sauté minced garlic until fragrant—just about a minute will do! Then add butter; as it melts, toss in your cooked pasta along with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. This creates a rich base for all those wonderful ingredients.

Step 6: Combine Everything Together

Now it’s time to bring it all together! Add roasted butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, browned sausage, and fresh thyme into your skillet with pasta. Gently mix everything so each ingredient gets coated in that delicious garlic butter sauce. Taste as you go and adjust seasoning as needed!

Enjoy every bite of this Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite—it’s bound to become a cherished go-to in your home just like it is in mine!

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

Creating the perfect Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash is easier than you think! Here are a few tips to help you elevate your dish and impress your family and friends.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh butternut squash and Brussels sprouts will enhance the flavors of the dish, providing a crisp texture and vibrant color that frozen options can’t match.

• Don’t skip the roasting: Roasting the squash and Brussels sprouts brings out their natural sweetness and adds a lovely caramelization, which enhances the overall taste of your pasta.

• Reserve pasta water: Keeping a bit of pasta water can help you adjust the sauce’s consistency later, making it creamier without adding extra fat.

• Experiment with seasonings: While smoked paprika and fresh thyme are fantastic, feel free to add other herbs like rosemary or sage for a unique twist that matches your personal taste.

• Make it ahead of time: This dish is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare everything in advance and simply warm it up when you’re ready to serve, saving you time on busy weeknights.

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

Presenting your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash beautifully can make it even more enjoyable. Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and a burst of freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Grated Parmesan cheese alternative: For those looking for a cheesy flavor without dairy, consider using a plant-based cheese alternative to sprinkle on top before serving.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this pasta dish, providing a satisfying crunch that complements the creamy texture.

• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty pasta.

• Roasted vegetables: Additional roasted veggies—like carrots or zucchini—make for an excellent side that echoes the autumnal theme of this meal while providing extra nutrients.

• Steamed broccoli: This vibrant green vegetable is not only nutritious but also adds color to your plate while balancing the richness of the pasta.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll have an autumn-inspired meal that’s both delicious and visually appealing. Enjoy every cozy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash dish is not just a delight to eat but also a fantastic option for meal prep! You can easily prepare it in advance, making your weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pasta to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool completely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to moisten, or microwave until heated through.
• Stir well before serving to redistribute the ingredients.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I use another type of sausage in the Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash?

Absolutely! While smoked sausage adds a great flavor, feel free to substitute with chicken sausage or any other cooked sausage you enjoy.

How long does it take to make Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash?

This recipe is designed to be quick and easy, taking only about 25 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cooking. In under an hour, you’ll have a warm and satisfying meal ready!

Can I add more vegetables to this pasta dish?

Yes! This recipe is very versatile. You can add your favorite veggies like spinach, kale, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.

Is the Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply swap out the bow tie pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta alternative.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash! It’s not only incredibly tasty but also brings together comforting flavors that capture the essence of fall. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experience; I would love to hear how it turns out!