Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite

If you’re looking for a cozy and satisfying dish to warm your heart this fall, look no further! My Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite is the perfect blend of flavors and comfort. This dish combines tender bow tie pasta with roasted butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, and savory smoked sausage in a simple garlic butter sauce. It’s not just quick to make; it’s also an ideal choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want everyone to enjoy something delicious. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a go-to favorite!

Imagine coming home after a long day, and the aroma of garlic and roasted veggies fills your kitchen. That’s the magic of this pasta! It’s hearty enough to satisfy everyone at the table while still being healthy and wholesome.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Prep Time: This dish can be on the table in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: With its delightful mix of flavors and textures, it’s sure to please both kids and adults alike!
• One-Skillet Wonder: Less cleanup means more time spent enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen.
• Flexible Ingredients: You can easily swap out vegetables or proteins based on what you have on hand.
• Comforting Flavors: The combination of smoked paprika, garlic, and fresh thyme creates a warm, inviting taste that screams fall.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to bring this dish to life! Each component adds its own special touch, creating a beautiful harmony of flavors in every bite.

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)

For the Sauce

• 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! Here are some ideas to customize it according to your tastes:

• Swap the protein: Try using grilled chicken or turkey sausage instead of smoked sausage for a lighter option.
• Change up the veggies: If Brussels sprouts aren’t your favorite, consider using green beans or kale instead!
• Make it vegan: Substitute the butter with vegan margarine or olive oil and use plant-based sausage.
• Add some spice: For those who like a kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes while cooking for added heat.

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

Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash

Preheat your oven to 200°C (about 400°F). Start by tossing cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spreading them out evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet ensures they roast beautifully without steaming. Roast for about 15-20 minutes until they’re tender and caramelized. This step enhances their natural sweetness!

Step 2: Roast the Brussels Sprouts

While the squash is roasting, trim and halve your Brussels sprouts. Toss them similarly with olive oil, salt, and pepper before laying them out on another baking sheet. Roasting these beauties at 200°C (400°F) for about 20-30 minutes brings out their nutty flavor while giving them that crispy texture we all love.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted water that’s come to a boil, add your bow tie pasta. Follow package directions until they are al dente. Draining the pasta is important; remember to save some pasta water! It will help loosen up the sauce later if needed.

Step 4: Sauté the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a bit more olive oil. Slice your cooked smoked sausage into coins and cook until they’re browned on both sides—about 5-7 minutes. Removing them from the skillet prevents overcooking while also allowing you to use that flavorful oil for your next step.

Step 5: Prepare the Sauce

In that same skillet, toss in minced garlic sautéing until fragrant—this will fill your kitchen with heavenly aromas! Add butter next; as it melts into the garlic goodness, toss in your cooked pasta along with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Mixing everything together really brings out those delicious flavors!

Step 6: Combine Everything

Finally, gently fold in your roasted butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, cooked sausage slices, and fresh thyme into the skillet mixture. Mixing everything together allows all those lovely flavors to unite beautifully. Taste one last time—adjust seasoning if needed—and serve hot!

Enjoy every comforting bite of this Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite!

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

Creating the perfect Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash is easier than you think! Here are some handy tips to ensure your dish turns out wonderfully every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh butternut squash and Brussels sprouts will enhance the flavor and texture of your pasta. They add a natural sweetness that complements the smoked sausage beautifully.

• Adjust the seasoning: Taste as you go! If you find the dish needs more depth, feel free to add a pinch more smoked paprika or fresh thyme. This allows you to customize the flavors to your liking.

• Don’t skip the roasting: Roasting the butternut squash and Brussels sprouts brings out their natural sweetness and enhances their flavors. This step adds a delicious caramelized taste that makes the dish truly special.

• Reserve some pasta water: When draining your pasta, save a little of that starchy water. Adding it back into the skillet can help create a creamy sauce that holds everything together perfectly.

• Make it ahead: This recipe is great for meal prep! You can roast the vegetables and cook the sausage in advance, then simply combine everything when you’re ready to eat.

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

Presenting this delicious pasta dish is all about making it inviting and appealing. Here are some ideas on how to serve it up!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, enhancing both presentation and flavor.
• Grated Parmesan alternative: If you’re looking for a cheesy finish, sprinkle some dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast on top for an extra layer of flavor.
• Red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, red pepper flakes can be sprinkled on top just before serving to give your dish an exciting kick.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce, garlic bread is an ideal companion that everyone loves.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with a lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty pasta, balancing out your meal beautifully.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots or zucchini seasoned with herbs make for colorful and nutritious sides that complement your main dish perfectly.
• Steamed Green Beans: These add a nice crunch and vibrant color while being quick to prepare, making them an easy addition to your dinner spread.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash will not only taste incredible but also look fantastic on the table! Enjoy this cozy meal with family or friends as you embrace all the warm flavors of fall.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash dish is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and enjoy the delightful flavors throughout the week. It’s a great way to have a comforting meal ready to go on busy nights.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will keep well for up to 3 days.
• Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing the container.

Freezing

• To freeze, place cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Be sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent sticking.
• You can also microwave individual portions; just cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
• Heat until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

Can I use other types of pasta for Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash?

Absolutely! While bow tie pasta works wonderfully, feel free to substitute with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli. Just adjust your cooking time according to the package instructions for your chosen pasta.

What makes Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash so special?

Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash combines the rich flavors of roasted butternut squash and Brussels sprouts with hearty smoked sausage, all enveloped in a simple garlic butter sauce. It’s not only delicious but also quick and comforting—perfect for those cozy fall evenings!

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! You can easily replace the smoked sausage with your favorite plant-based sausage or simply omit it altogether. The roasted squash and Brussels sprouts will still provide plenty of flavor and heartiness.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash! It’s truly a comforting dish that brings together the best flavors of fall. Whether it’s a family dinner or meal prep for the week, this recipe is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your experiences!