As the days grow shorter and the crisp autumn air settles in, my kitchen transforms into a cozy haven filled with the warmth of hearty meals. One evening, while preparing to embrace the season, I stumbled upon the delightful combination of butternut squash and smoked sausage. This inspired me to create the Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash, a one-skillet dish that perfectly encapsulates fall flavors. With roasted Brussels sprouts adding a delightful crunch and the rich aroma of garlic butter wafting through the kitchen, this meal brings both comfort and satisfaction to my dinner table.
What I love most about this dish is its versatility. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply looking for a quick weeknight dinner, it’s a stunning presentation that can be pulled together in under an hour. And for those seeking a vegetarian twist, I’ve included suggestions to swap ingredients while still enjoying the same warm and inviting flavors. Let’s cozy up and dive into the soul of autumn with this easy recipe that’s bound to become a favorite!
Why Love Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash?
Comforting and satisfying, this dish embodies the essence of fall while being perfect for busy weeknights.
One-Skillet Meal: Effortlessly cook everything in one pan, making clean-up a breeze!
Flavorful ingredients like roasted butternut squash and smoked sausage create a rich, comforting taste that warms the soul.
Versatile substitutions ensure everyone can enjoy; simply swap for a vegetarian option!
Quick Preparation: Ready in under an hour, it’s ideal for unexpected guests or a cozy family dinner.
Aromatic and Inviting: The garlic butter sauce and fresh thyme fill your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas, making mealtime truly special.
Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash Ingredients
For the Roasted Vegetables
• Butternut Squash – Adds natural sweetness and creamy texture when roasted; feel free to substitute with acorn squash or sweet potatoes for variety.
• Brussels Sprouts – Offers bitterness and body; remember to trim and halve before roasting for even cooking.
For the Pasta Base
• Bow Tie Pasta – The sturdy base of this dish; cook until al dente to ensure it holds up against the rich flavors.
• Olive Oil – Used for roasting the vegetables and sautéing the sausage; it adds flavor and helps achieve that beautiful caramelization.
For the Protein Option
• Smoked Sausage (cooked) – Imparts a rich, savory flavor; consider spicy options or vegetarian sausage crumbles for a meat-free alternative.
For the Flavor Enhancers
• Garlic – Essential for building flavor; sauté gently to prevent bitterness.
• Butter – Enriches the garlic sauce; can be swapped with plant-based butter for a dairy-free dish.
• Smoked Paprika – Infuses depth and warmth; optional but recommended for that fall flavor boost.
• Fresh Thyme – Provides a lovely aromatic touch; substitute with rosemary if desired or omit entirely.
How to Make Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash
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Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). This initial step ensures that your butternut squash gets perfectly roasted and caramelized, bringing out its natural sweetness.
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Toss cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread it on a lined baking sheet and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until tender and slightly golden brown.
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Prepare the Brussels sprouts by trimming and halving them. Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast for 20-30 minutes until caramelized and beautifully crisp.
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Cook the bow tie pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of the pasta water for later.
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Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the sliced smoked sausage until browned, perfecting that rich, savory flavor, then remove from skillet and set aside.
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Sauté minced garlic in the same skillet until fragrant—be attentive here to avoid burning! Then add butter, stirring until melted to create a luscious sauce.
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Combine the cooked pasta, roasted butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, sausage, and fresh thyme in the skillet. Toss gently to bring all those heavenly flavors together, adjusting seasoning as desired.
Optional: Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan for an extra layer of creaminess.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash?
As you gather around the table to enjoy this warming autumn dish, let’s explore some delightful pairings that will elevate your meal.
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Crisp Green Salad: A fresh, tangy salad dressed in a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta beautifully.
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Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlic-infused goodness of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up that luscious garlic butter sauce.
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Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: Toasted Brussels sprouts or root veggies add a textural contrast while enhancing the harvest flavors in your pasta.
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Warm Apple Crisp: End your meal on a sweet note with a warm apple crisp, bringing cozy fall flavors to your dessert table.
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Herbal Tea: A fragrant herbal tea, such as chamomile or cinnamon spice, provides a warm drink option that complements the hearty dish.
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Red Wine: A glass of medium-bodied red wine, like Merlot or Pinot Noir, pairs flawlessly with the smokiness of the sausage and the sweetness of the squash.
Bringing together these elements makes for a comforting, homestyle meal that resonates with the essence of autumn. Enjoy!
How to Store and Freeze Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash
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Fridge: Allow the cooked Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the dish in airtight containers or freezer bags. It will keep well for up to 3 months; just make sure to label your containers!
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Reheating: To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water or broth to maintain moisture. You can also microwave it on medium power, stirring occasionally.
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Make-Ahead: Prepare the dish ahead of time and freeze before baking, then follow cooking instructions when ready to serve, making dinner prep a breeze!
Make Ahead Options
These Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can roast the butternut squash and Brussels sprouts up to 3 days in advance; simply let them cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For added convenience, you can also cook the bow tie pasta up to 24 hours ahead and toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the vegetables in a skillet, sauté the sausage, and combine everything with the pasta and garlic butter sauce for a warm, cozy meal that tastes just as delicious as when freshly made. Embracing this make-ahead strategy saves time on busy weeknights, allowing you to enjoy hearty comfort food with minimal effort!
Variations & Substitutions for Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash
Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own with these delightful variations!
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Vegetarian Option: Replace the smoked sausage with plant-based sausage crumbles to maintain the hearty texture without meat. Perfect for a cozy meat-free meal!
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Spicy Kick: Swap in spicy andouille sausage for an extra layer of heat that complements the sweetness of the butternut squash beautifully.
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Different Pasta Shape: Use penne or fusilli pasta instead of bow ties for a fun twist. Each shape will catch those delicious garlic butter flavors in its folds!
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Additional Veggies: Toss in roasted zucchini or mushrooms to boost the vegetable content and add rich umami flavors. This not only enhances nutrition but also deepens the dish’s complexity.
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Herb Substitutions: Feel free to swap fresh thyme for rosemary for a bold, fragrant twist. Both herbs work wonderfully with the fall flavors!
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Cheesy Delight: Top with freshly grated Parmesan or a sprinkle of feta cheese for a savory finish. The creaminess adds a luxurious touch to each bite.
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Nuts for Texture: For a crunchy texture, sprinkle toasted pine nuts or walnuts on top just before serving. They add a delightful contrast to the creaminess of the sauce.
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Lemon Zest: Brighten the dish with a touch of lemon zest or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving. This adds a refreshing note that balances the rich flavors perfectly!
Expert Tips for Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash
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Roast to Perfection: Ensure your butternut squash and Brussels sprouts are roasted until golden brown for intensified flavors that elevate your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash.
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Cook Pasta Al Dente: Always cook the pasta until al dente to maintain its shape and texture against the creamy sauce.
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Reserve Pasta Water: Save a cup of pasta cooking water; this can help adjust the sauce’s consistency if it’s too thick.
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Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: Give each ingredient enough space while sautéing to achieve that lovely caramelization; work in batches if necessary.
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Watch the Garlic: Sauté garlic until it’s fragrant, not browned, to avoid any bitterness that might spoil the dish’s overall taste.
Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash Recipe FAQs
What type of butternut squash should I choose for the recipe?
Absolutely! Look for butternut squash that feels firm and heavy for its size, with a smooth skin and no dark spots or soft spots. If you’d prefer a variation, acorn squash or sweet potatoes can also work wonderfully in this cozy dish.
How should I store leftover Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash?
Very easy! Once your dish has cooled completely, you can place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to label it so you can enjoy those delicious leftovers!
Can I freeze Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash?
Yes, you absolutely can! For freezing, allow the dish to cool completely and then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of reserved pasta water.
What can I do if my garlic turns bitter while cooking?
Don’t worry; it happens! If your garlic starts to brown too quickly and has a bitter taste, it’s best to remove it from the heat immediately. In the future, try lowering the heat and adding the garlic later in the cooking process, just after adding the butter. This way, you’ll achieve that lovely garlic fragrance without any bitterness.
Is there a vegetarian option for the Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash?
The more the merrier! You can easily swap out the smoked sausage for plant-based sausage crumbles to keep the comforting flavors intact while catering to a vegetarian diet. Roasted vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini can also enhance the dish without compromising on taste.
How can I make sure my roasted vegetables are perfectly caramelized?
To achieve that beautiful caramelization, make sure you don’t overcrowd your roasting pan. Spread the vegetables out in a single layer and allow some space between them; this promotes even roasting and enhances the sweet, rich flavors. Roast until they are golden brown and fork-tender, which usually takes about 20-30 minutes depending on the size of your vegetable pieces.
Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Cozy Fall Comfort in a Skillet
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Toss cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread it on a lined baking sheet and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until tender and slightly golden brown.
- Prepare the Brussels sprouts by trimming and halving them. Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast for 20-30 minutes until caramelized and beautifully crisp.
- Cook the bow tie pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of the pasta water.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the sliced smoked sausage until browned, then remove from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté minced garlic in the same skillet until fragrant, then add butter and stir until melted.
- Combine the cooked pasta, roasted butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, sausage, and fresh thyme in the skillet. Toss gently to combine.