turkey Bacon Brussels Sprouts Butternut Squash Pasta

If you’re looking for a cozy, delicious dish that captures the essence of fall, then this turkey Bacon Brussels Sprouts Butternut Squash Pasta is just what you need! This recipe has become a favorite in my home, not just because it’s packed with flavor, but also because it’s so simple to prepare. Imagine gathering around the dinner table after a busy day, sharing hearty bowls of pasta filled with roasted butternut squash, brussels sprouts, and crispy turkey bacon. It’s perfect for family gatherings or a relaxing weeknight meal.

What makes this dish truly special is how it brings together seasonal ingredients in a way that feels both comforting and fresh. Plus, with its vibrant colors and delightful aromas, it’s sure to impress anyone you serve it to!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have a flavorful meal ready in under an hour.
• Family-friendly appeal: The combination of savory turkey bacon and sweet butternut squash will win over even the pickiest eaters.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch on Sunday and enjoy leftovers throughout the week!
• Packed with nutrients: This dish is full of veggies, making it a healthy choice for any dinner table.
• Comfort food at its best: Warm up on chilly nights with this hearty pasta that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s take a look at the wholesome ingredients that make this turkey Bacon Brussels Sprouts Butternut Squash Pasta so delightful! These are all simple items you likely already have on hand or can easily find at your local grocery store:

For the Pasta:

• 4 strips turkey bacon, (chopped)
• 4 cups peeled butternut squash, (cut into 1 inch cubes)
• 2 cups halved brussels sprouts
• 1/2 diced shallots
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 10 ounces pasta, (rigatoni, penne, or farfalle)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, (minced or grated)
• 1/4 – 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, (adjust to your heat preference)
• 1 lemon, (juiced)
• 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or personal preferences. Here are some ideas:

• Swap the protein: Feel free to use chicken or turkey sausage instead of turkey bacon for a different flavor profile.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale towards the end for an extra boost of greens.
• Change up the cheese: Try using feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist instead of parmesan.
• Make it creamy: Add a splash of cream or some cream cheese while mixing everything together for a richer sauce.

How to Make turkey Bacon Brussels Sprouts Butternut Squash Pasta

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 425°F. While that heats up, grab a rimmed baking sheet and spread out your chopped vegetables and turkey bacon. Drizzle them with olive oil and season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper—it’s important because this will enhance all those wonderful flavors as they roast.

Step 2: Roast the Vegetables

Pop your baking sheet into the oven for about 10 minutes. After that time, give everything a good toss before returning it to roast for another 10-15 minutes. You’re looking for tender vegetables that are beautifully caramelized and crispy bacon—this step is essential as roasting brings out their natural sweetness!

Step 3: Cook Your Pasta

While your veggies are busy roasting away, cook your pasta according to package instructions. Don’t forget to reserve about one cup of pasta water before draining! This starchy water is like liquid gold when it comes time to create that luscious sauce.

Step 4: Sauté Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes

In a large skillet over medium heat, add some olive oil along with minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté them together for about 30 seconds until fragrant—this step builds depth in flavor that makes your dish irresistible!

Step 5: Combine Everything Together

Now comes the fun part! Add your cooked pasta into the skillet along with those beautiful roasted vegetables and crispy turkey bacon. Toss everything together with shredded parmesan cheese and fresh thyme leaves. Squeeze in fresh lemon juice—it gives brightness to balance all those rich flavors.

Step 6: Create Your Sauce

Pour in half a cup of reserved pasta water; this helps bind everything together while creating a luxurious sauce. Stir until combined; if you want it creamier, feel free to add more pasta water as needed! Finally, taste for seasoning adjustments before serving topped with extra parmesan cheese if desired.

And there you have it! A comforting bowl of turkey Bacon Brussels Sprouts Butternut Squash Pasta that’s sure to warm your heart and belly! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making turkey Bacon Brussels Sprouts Butternut Squash Pasta

Cooking is a journey, and with these pro tips, you can take your dish to the next level!

• Prep Ahead: Chop and prepare your vegetables the night before. This not only saves time on busy weeknights but also allows the flavors to meld together when they sit in the fridge overnight.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh thyme and seasonal vegetables make all the difference in flavor. Fresh herbs bring brightness to your dish and enhance the overall taste profile.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the amount of red pepper flakes based on your heat preference. This flexibility makes it perfect for everyone at the table, from spice lovers to those who prefer milder flavors.
• Experiment with Cheese: If you’re feeling adventurous, try substituting parmesan with pecorino or nutritional yeast for a different flavor twist. Each cheese brings its unique character that can change the entire flavor dynamic of the dish.
• Save Extra Sauce: If you have leftover pasta water, keep it! It’s a fantastic base for soups or sauces later in the week, helping to reduce food waste while enhancing future meals.

How to Serve turkey Bacon Brussels Sprouts Butternut Squash Pasta

Presentation matters, and this vibrant pasta dish deserves a little flair when it hits the table! Here are some ideas on how you can serve it beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh Thyme Leaves: Sprinkle some extra fresh thyme over the top for a burst of color and aromatic essence.
• Zest of Lemon: A light sprinkle of lemon zest just before serving adds a refreshing brightness that complements the roasted flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser alongside pasta dishes. It’s perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce too!
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.
• Roasted Carrots: Sweet and caramelized roasted carrots add an earthy sweetness that pairs well with the savory elements of your pasta dish.
• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli not only adds color but also nutrition. Its mild flavor complements without overpowering your main course.

With these serving suggestions and tips in hand, you’re all set to impress family and friends with this delightful turkey bacon brussels sprouts butternut squash pasta! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This turkey bacon Brussels sprouts butternut squash pasta is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can prepare it in advance, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pasta to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy leftovers within 3-4 days for the best flavor.

Freezing

• For freezing, ensure the dish is fully cooled.
• Portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or extra olive oil to prevent sticking.
• Heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

If you’re curious about this recipe, here are some common questions!

Can I use different types of pasta for turkey bacon Brussels sprouts butternut squash pasta?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with various pasta shapes like rotini, fusilli, or even whole grain options. Choose your favorite!

How can I make this turkey bacon Brussels sprouts butternut squash pasta vegetarian?

To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the turkey bacon and substitute it with additional roasted vegetables or sautéed mushrooms for added flavor.

Can I add other vegetables to the turkey bacon Brussels sprouts butternut squash pasta?

Yes! Feel free to get creative by adding veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or even kale. Just adjust roasting times as needed.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this comforting turkey bacon Brussels sprouts butternut squash pasta as much as I do! It’s a delightful way to bring fall flavors to your dinner table while being easy enough for any night of the week. Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and sharing joy through food. Happy cooking!