A warm and hearty dish for the cool days of fall, Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. This simple recipe features roasted butternut squash and Brussels sprouts paired with your choice of cooked sausage and bow tie pasta. Perfect for a family dinner, this meal brings a sense of warmth to any table. Plus, it’s easy enough for beginners, making it an exciting addition to your autumn cooking repertoire. Enjoy the cozy vibes of fall with every bite! 🍂🍝
why make this recipe
This dish is a perfect match for crisp autumn evenings. Filled with nutritious ingredients, it offers a unique twist on a classic pasta dish. The roasted squash adds a sweet and nutty flavor, while the Brussels sprouts bring a bit of crunch. The choice of sausage gives it a hearty kick, making it satisfying and filling. It’s not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights.
⏱️ Time Breakdown
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 4
how to make Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash
Ingredients
- 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
- 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
✨ Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free.
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Mixing bowls
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Baking dish (if needed)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- In a mixing bowl, toss the cubed butternut squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread it in a single layer on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes until tender. 🥣
- While the squash is roasting, trim and halve the Brussels sprouts. Toss them with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on another parchment-lined baking sheet and roast for 20-30 minutes, until crispy and golden. 🥦
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bow tie pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and reserve some pasta water for later.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Slice the sausage into coins and cook until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Using the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add butter and let it melt.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the garlic butter. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Gently fold in the roasted butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, cooked sausage, and fresh thyme. Mix to combine everything, adjusting seasoning as needed. Serve warm and enjoy! 🍽️✨
how to serve Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash
Serve your dish warm, garnished with additional fresh thyme or a sprinkle of parmesan if desired. This hearty meal pairs well with a simple garden salad for a complete fall feast!
how to store Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to keep it moist.
💡 Pro Tips
- Storage: Make sure to cool the leftovers completely before sealing them in an airtight container.
- Substitutions: Feel free to swap out the sausage for chicken or turkey for a lighter option.
- Prep: Prepare the ingredients in advance and store them in the fridge to save time on cooking day.
- Serving: Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for a little heat if you like it spicy!
variation
For a vegetarian version, you can omit the sausage entirely and add more veggies like mushrooms and spinach for extra flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of squash?
Yes! You can swap butternut squash for acorn or pumpkin, but cooking times may vary.
2. Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Yes! It freezes well. Just make sure to reheat thoroughly before serving.
3. Can I make it dairy-free?
Absolutely! Simply omit the butter and use a dairy-free butter substitute.
Enjoy the cozy comforts of Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash this fall! 🍂
