A hearty dish that embodies the essence of fall, Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash is perfect for cozy dinners. This recipe combines the warmth of smoked sausage with the sweetness of roasted butternut squash and Brussels sprouts. It’s an ideal meal for family gatherings or a simple weeknight dinner. The delicious garlic butter sauce elevates this one-skillet meal, making it not only easy to prepare but also rich in flavor.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 55 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
Flavorful Combination: The blend of smoked sausage, butternut squash, and Brussels sprouts creates a delightful taste experience.
One-Skillet Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one skillet.
Seasonal Ingredients: Utilizing fall vegetables makes this dish fresh, seasonal, and nutritious.
Versatile Meal: It can be served as a main course or a side dish at gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, having the right tools is essential. Here are some must-haves for preparing Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large skillet
Baking sheet
Pot for boiling pasta
Parchment paper
Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

Large skillet: Essential for sautéing ingredients and combining flavors in one pan.
Baking sheet: Perfect for roasting vegetables evenly without sticking.
Pot for boiling pasta: A must-have to cook bow tie pasta to al dente perfection.

Ingredients

For the 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

For the Sausage and Sauce

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

How to Make Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 200°C.

Step 2: Roast Butternut Squash

Toss cubed butternut squash with 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.

Step 3: Roast Brussels Sprouts

Trim and halve Brussels sprouts. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on another parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Roast at 200°C for 20-30 minutes until golden brown.

Step 4: Cook the Bow Tie Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook bow tie pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta but reserve some water for later use.

Step 5: Sauté Smoked Sausage

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Slice smoked sausage into coins and cook until browned on both sides. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 6: Make Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Incorporate butter until melted. Add cooked pasta, tossing to coat with garlic butter sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.

Step 7: Combine Everything

Add roasted butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, cooked sausage, and fresh thyme into the skillet. Gently mix all ingredients together until well combined. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Enjoy your comforting Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash!

How to Serve Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash

This hearty Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash dish is perfect for cozy dinners. You can elevate the dining experience with some thoughtful serving suggestions.

Pair with a Salad

Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with arugula, spinach, and a simple vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the pasta.
Caesar Salad: The creaminess of Caesar dressing adds a nice contrast to the savory sausage and squash.

Add Bread

Garlic Bread: Toasted bread topped with garlic butter is an excellent side for soaking up the delicious garlic butter sauce.
Crusty Baguette: Slices of crusty baguette can be served warm for a satisfying crunch alongside your meal.

Enhance with Cheese

Parmesan Cheese: Shaving fresh Parmesan over the dish just before serving adds an extra layer of flavor.
Feta Crumbles: For a tangy twist, sprinkle feta cheese on top, which balances perfectly with the sweetness of butternut squash.

Serve with Wine

White Wine: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully, enhancing the flavors of the sausage and vegetables.
Red Wine: If you prefer red, a light Pinot Noir complements the dish without overpowering it.

How to Perfect Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash

To achieve the best results with your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash, consider these helpful tips.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh butternut squash and Brussels sprouts enhance flavor and texture in your dish.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and smoked paprika according to your preference for a personalized touch.
Cook Pasta Al Dente: This ensures that your bow tie pasta holds its shape and provides a pleasant bite amidst the other ingredients.
Experiment with Sausages: Different types of smoked sausage (like andouille or cajun) can provide unique flavors to suit your taste.
Add Nuts or Seeds: For extra crunch, consider adding toasted pine nuts or pumpkin seeds just before serving.
Garnish Thoughtfully: A sprinkle of fresh thyme or parsley not only adds color but also enhances freshness in flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash

Completing your meal with side dishes can create a balanced dining experience. Here are some delightful options:

Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their sweetness pairs wonderfully with the savory pasta dish; simply toss with olive oil and roast until tender.
Sautéed Green Beans: Quickly sauté green beans in olive oil with garlic for a crisp complement to your meal.
Apple Crisp: A warm dessert featuring baked apples topped with oats is an excellent way to finish off an autumn dinner.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These add comfort and richness; prepare them using butter and cream for an indulgent side.
Brussels Sprout Slaw: Shredded Brussels sprouts mixed with a tangy dressing creates a crunchy side that mirrors those in your main dish.
Pumpkin Soup: Start your meal with a warm bowl of pumpkin soup to embrace autumn flavors throughout your dinner experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

Skipping the roasting step – Not roasting the butternut squash and Brussels sprouts can lead to a lack of flavor. Roasting enhances their sweetness and adds depth.
Ignoring pasta cooking time – Overcooking the bow tie pasta can result in a mushy texture. Always follow the package instructions for al dente perfection.
Underseasoning the dish – Forgetting to season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika can make your dish bland. Taste as you go and adjust seasoning accordingly.
Not using fresh herbs – Using dried thyme instead of fresh may reduce flavor complexity. Fresh herbs will elevate your dish significantly.
Rushing the skillet steps – Cooking ingredients too quickly may cause uneven cooking. Take your time to ensure each component is cooked properly before mixing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
It remains fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash

Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
Can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash

Oven – Preheat to 180°C, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely; heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
Stovetop – Warm on low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through; add a splash of water if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I substitute for smoked sausage in Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash?

You can use turkey sausage or vegan sausage if you prefer a lighter or plant-based option.

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While bow tie pasta is used here, feel free to try penne or fusilli as alternatives.

How do I customize my Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash?

You can add vegetables like spinach or kale, or switch up the herbs based on what you have on hand.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this recipe stores well and is perfect for meal prep. Just follow storage instructions above!

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute bow tie pasta with gluten-free pasta made from rice or chickpeas.

Final Thoughts

Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash is not only comforting but also versatile enough for any dinner table. You can easily customize it with seasonal vegetables or different proteins. Give this delightful recipe a try—you’ll love how it captures the essence of fall!

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Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash

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Author: Cara
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash is the perfect dish to embrace the flavors of fall. This comforting one-skillet meal combines the heartiness of smoked sausage with sweet roasted butternut squash and Brussels sprouts, all enveloped in a rich garlic butter sauce. Ideal for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packed with seasonal ingredients that make it nutritious and satisfying.

Ingredients

Scale

3 cups butternut squash, cubed
340 g Brussels sprouts, halved
225 g bow tie pasta
340 g cooked smoked sausage (cajun or andouille)
5 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons butter
Olive oil, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, fresh thyme

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
Toss butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper; spread on a baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes.
Halve Brussels sprouts; toss with olive oil and seasonings; roast for 20-30 minutes.
Cook bow tie pasta according to package directions until al dente; drain.
In a skillet, cook sliced sausage until browned; remove from skillet.
Sauté garlic in butter until fragrant; add cooked pasta and seasonings.
Combine roasted vegetables and sausage in the skillet; mix well.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Main
Method: Roasting/Sautéing
Cuisine: American