Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that captures the essence of fall, look no further than this Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite. This delightful recipe marries the sweet and nutty flavors of roasted butternut squash with hearty smoked sausage and vibrant Brussels sprouts—all tossed together in a rich garlic butter sauce. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, providing warmth and comfort to every bite. Plus, it can be made in just about 25 minutes, making it an ideal choice for any occasion!

I love how this dish brings together simple ingredients to create something truly special. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a standout on any dinner table. You’ll find yourself reaching for seconds, and maybe even thirds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 55 minutes, this dish fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
• Flavor Packed: The garlic butter sauce combined with smoked paprika and fresh thyme creates an irresistible flavor explosion.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will enjoy the hearty components—pasta, sausage, and veggies all in one bowl.
• One-Skillet Wonder: Less cleanup is always a plus! Cook everything in one skillet for more time enjoying your meal.
• Make Ahead Convenience: This pasta dish is great for meal prepping; just store leftovers in the fridge for easy lunches.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to bring this dish to life. You might already have many of these staples in your pantry!

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 make it your own with these delicious variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken sausage or a plant-based sausage alternative for a different twist.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale right before serving for added nutrients.
• Change up the pasta: If you don’t have bow tie pasta on hand, any shape will work beautifully here!
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat in your dish.

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

Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash

Preheat your oven to 200°C. Start by tossing the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper until well-coated. Spread them out on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness and caramelizes them beautifully—about 15-20 minutes should do the trick!

Step 2: Roast the Brussels Sprouts

While the squash is roasting, trim and halve your Brussels sprouts. Give them a toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper as well. Spread these out on another parchment-lined baking sheet and roast at 200°C for about 20-30 minutes until they’re golden brown. This step adds depth of flavor to the sprouts.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook your bow tie pasta according to package directions until al dente. Remember to reserve some pasta water before draining—this starchy water can help bring everything together later.

Step 4: Sauté the Smoked Sausage

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Slice your cooked smoked sausage into coins and cook until they’re browned on both sides—this should only take about 5 minutes. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside.

Step 5: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

In that same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Then add in butter until melted—a lovely base flavor! Toss in your drained pasta next while seasoning it with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika so everything gets coated nicely.

Step 6: Combine Everything Together

Finally, add those roasted butternut squash cubes, Brussels sprouts, cooked sausage slices, and fresh thyme into the skillet. Gently mix everything together so that each ingredient shines through while adjusting seasoning as needed.

And there you have it! A hearty Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash that’s sure to warm hearts around your dinner table this fall!

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

Cooking should be a joy, and with these tips, you can elevate your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash to a whole new level of deliciousness!

• Prep Ingredients Ahead: Chopping the squash and Brussels sprouts in advance saves time during cooking. This allows you to enjoy the process more and helps everything come together smoothly.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: When roasting your vegetables, give them space on the baking sheet. This promotes even roasting and ensures your butternut squash and Brussels sprouts develop that lovely caramelization.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Always save a bit of pasta water before draining. Adding a splash of this starchy water to your sauce can help create a beautifully silky texture that clings to your pasta perfectly.
• Fresh Herbs Matter: Using fresh thyme not only adds flavor but also brings a vibrant touch to your dish. Fresh herbs enhance the aroma and make your meal feel more gourmet!
• Adjust Spices to Taste: Feel free to tweak the amount of smoked paprika or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. Tailoring the seasoning to your preference will make this dish uniquely yours!

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 for you and your guests. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving game.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: While avoiding animal-derived ingredients, consider using a plant-based parmesan or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
• Toasted Pumpkin Seeds: These add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, making your dish even more autumnal.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: A classic pairing with any pasta, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. You can easily make it vegan by using olive oil instead of butter.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing balances out the richness of the pasta dish, adding freshness.
• Roasted Root Vegetables: Carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes roasted in olive oil complement the flavors of your main dish while adding extra nutrients.
• Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans: These are quick to prepare and provide a nice contrast in color and texture while being full of vitamins.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set for an unforgettable autumn dinner! Enjoy every bite of this comforting meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a hearty dish throughout the week. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or your family, you can easily make this dish ahead of time and store it for later!

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the pasta cool entirely.
• Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking.
• Heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you out!

Can I use different types of sausage in the Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute smoked sausage with turkey sausage or any plant-based sausage alternatives that suit your dietary preferences.

How long does it take to prepare the Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash?

This delicious Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash comes together in just 25 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cooking time, making it a quick and satisfying meal option!

Is there a vegetarian version of Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash?

Yes! To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the smoked sausage with your favorite plant-based sausage and ensure that your butter is dairy-free if needed.

Can I use other vegetables in the Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash?

Definitely! Feel free to mix in seasonal vegetables like kale, spinach, or even carrots for added flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash recipe brings warmth and comfort to your autumn evenings! It’s not only quick and easy but also packed with delicious flavors that celebrate the season. Enjoy preparing this dish and sharing it with loved ones; I can’t wait for you to try it!