Imagine a cozy autumn evening where the air is filled with the comforting scent of roasted squash and savory sausage. The vibrant colors of the butternut squash and Brussels sprouts dance together in your bowl, creating an irresistible feast that celebrates the essence of fall. This Autumn Sausage Pasta with Squash brings together flavors so rich and delightful, it feels like a warm hug wrapped in al dente pasta.
Now, picture yourself serving this incredible dish to family or friends gathered around your table, their eyes lighting up with excitement as they take their first bite. The combination of roasted veggies and smoky sausage alongside the buttery garlic pasta is a culinary delight you won’t forget. Perfect for chilly nights, this recipe is all about enjoying the season’s bounty with those you cherish the most.
Why You'll Love This Autumn Sausage Pasta with Squash
- This incredible Autumn Sausage Pasta with Squash transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.
Ingredients for Autumn Sausage Pasta with Squash
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Autumn Sausage Pasta with Squash:
3 cups butternut squash – Sweet, nutty, and slightly creamy, it adds a lovely flavor and texture to the dish.
1 tablespoon olive oil – A drizzle of this enhances the sweetness of the squash and helps it roast beautifully.
Salt and pepper – Essential seasonings to elevate the flavors of the entire dish.
12 oz Brussels sprouts – These miniature cabbages provide a delightful crunch and earthy notes when roasted.
2 tablespoons olive oil – Crucial for roasting the Brussels sprouts to golden perfection.
8 oz bow tie pasta – A fun pasta shape that holds onto the delicious sauce splendidly.
12 oz cooked smoked sausage – The star of the dish! It brings rich, smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the veggies.
5 cloves garlic – Adds aromatic warmth and depth to the dish, infusing the pasta with a savory bite.
2 tablespoons butter – For a luscious garlic sauce that coats the pasta indulgently.
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika – Just a pinch packs a flavorful punch, enhancing that smoky note from the sausage.
Fresh thyme to taste – A sprinkle of this herb is the cherry on top, adding a fragrant finish to your meal.
How to Make Autumn Sausage Pasta with Squash
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Autumn Sausage Pasta with Squash:
Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash with one tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Spread the squash on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet and roast it for about 15 to 30 minutes, until golden and fork-tender.
Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
While the squash is roasting, trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts, remove any yellow leaves, and slice them in half. Toss the halved sprouts with two tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet and toss them into the oven during the last 20 to 30 minutes of the butternut squash roasting time, allowing them to become crispy and caramelized.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the bow tie pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8 to 10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 4: Sauté the Sausage
In a cast-iron skillet, heat one tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Slice the smoked sausage into coins and add them to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes on one side until browned, then flip and cook for an additional 3 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
Step 5: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring frequently until softened and fragrant. Then, add 2 tablespoons of butter and let it melt. Toss the drained pasta into the skillet, coating it in the garlic butter sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and a dash of smoked paprika to taste.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Return the roasted butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, and cooked sausage to the skillet with the pasta. Gently mix everything to combine, ensuring the veggies are coated in the garlic butter sauce. Serve warm, garnished with fresh thyme for a zesty finish. This dish is sure to impress everyone gathered around your table.
Dig in and enjoy a bowl of comforting, autumn-infused deliciousness!
You Must Know About Autumn Sausage Pasta with Squash
- This showstopping Autumn Sausage Pasta with Squash delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.
Perfecting Autumn Sausage Pasta with Squash Cooking Process
The key to mastering this Autumn Sausage Pasta with Squash lies in your cooking sequence. Start by roasting the butternut squash and Brussels sprouts. While those are roasting, you can cook the pasta. Finally, sauté the sausage and garlic, bringing everything together in one glorious skillet.
Add Your Touch to Autumn Sausage Pasta with Squash
Feel free to customize your Autumn Sausage Pasta with Squash by adding spinach or kale for extra greens. Swap out the smoked sausage for chicken sausage or a plant-based alternative for a lighter option. Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or sage for a flavor twist.
Storing & Reheating Autumn Sausage Pasta with Squash
To store your Autumn Sausage Pasta with Squash, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When reheating, add a splash of water to prevent it from drying out. Heat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Autumn Sausage Pasta with Squash
- This professional-quality Autumn Sausage Pasta with Squash relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
- Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.
Sharing this dish with friends on a chilly autumn evening was a highlight of last year. Their delighted faces and requests for the recipe made my heart swell with joy and reminded me that good food truly brings people together.
FAQs About Autumn Sausage Pasta with Squash
What is Autumn Sausage Pasta with Squash?
Autumn Sausage Pasta with Squash is a delightful and hearty dish perfect for chilly evenings. Combining roasted butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, and cooked smoked sausage with bow tie pasta, this meal offers an incredible range of flavors and textures. The dish is tossed in a garlic butter sauce and seasoned with smoked paprika and fresh thyme, giving it a warm, comforting taste that symbolizes the autumn season.
How can I customize Autumn Sausage Pasta with Squash?
You can easily customize Autumn Sausage Pasta with Squash to suit your tastes. For added greens, consider incorporating spinach or kale during the cooking process. If you want a healthier option, swap out the smoked sausage for chicken sausage or even a plant-based alternative. Experimenting with different herbs, like sage or rosemary, can also give your dish a unique flavor profile while keeping it fresh and exciting.
Is Autumn Sausage Pasta with Squash a healthy dish?
Yes, Autumn Sausage Pasta with Squash is a relatively healthy dish! It features a variety of vegetables like butternut squash and Brussels sprouts, providing essential vitamins and fiber. The use of smoked sausage adds protein, while using careful measures of olive oil and butter keeps the dish balanced. For those looking to lighten it up further, consider using whole wheat pasta or reducing the amount of butter used in the recipe.
Can I prepare Autumn Sausage Pasta with Squash ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare Autumn Sausage Pasta with Squash ahead of time, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. Cook the pasta and roast the vegetables in advance, then combine everything just before serving. Store the combined dish in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of water to keep it moist and enjoy this delicious autumn dish whenever you desire!
Conclusion for Autumn Sausage Pasta with Squash
In conclusion, Autumn Sausage Pasta with Squash is a fantastic blend of flavors and textures that brings warmth to any dinner table. The combination of roasted butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, and smoked sausage creates a meal that is both satisfying and nutritious. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Embrace the essence of fall by trying this delicious dish that is sure to impress your family and friends!
Delicious Autumn Sausage Pasta with Squash and Brussels Sprouts
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Toss cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet and roast for about 15 to 30 minutes.
- Trim ends of Brussels sprouts, remove yellow leaves, and slice in half. Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20 to 30 minutes at 400°F.
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add bow tie pasta and cook according to package instructions. Drain.
- In a cast-iron skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil. Slice sausage into coins and cook in the skillet for 5 minutes on one side, then 3 minutes on the other side. Remove sausage from skillet.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until softened. Add butter, then cooked pasta, and coat with garlic butter sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Add roasted butternut squash, roasted Brussels sprouts, cooked sausage, and fresh thyme to the skillet with pasta. Mix to coat the veggies.
