Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite

An autumn evening filled with the aroma of roasted veggies and savory sausage evokes memories of gathering around the table with loved ones. This Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash dish holds a special place in my heart. The vibrant colors and comforting flavors of butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, and smoked sausage transport me back to chilly fall days spent in the kitchen with family.

The crunch of roasted Brussels sprouts and the creamy texture of the butternut squash create an irresistible combination. Tossing these seasonal ingredients together with bow tie pasta offers a playful twist to classic pasta dishes. The moment I take a bite, the warmth of the dish envelops me, reminding me of all the family traditions rooted in food.

As the days grow shorter and the temperatures drop, preparing this hearty meal becomes a delightful ritual. Each step of the process, from chopping vegetables to stirring in fragrant garlic, fills the kitchen with the essence of fall. An inviting meal awaits, perfect for cozy gatherings or simply treating yourself after a long day.

This Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash compiles the essence of the season—comfort, flavor, and togetherness. Let’s dive into how to make this scrumptious dish and savor every bite of this delightful fall favorite.

Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Fundamentals

Cooking a delicious Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash dish relies on understanding the basic components. Each ingredient plays a pivotal role in crafting the final flavors and textures. The roasted butternut squash serves as the star of the show, bringing natural sweetness that balances out the savory elements. Likewise, Brussels sprouts add a delightful crunch and depth.

The choice of smoked sausage—a sweet and smoky variety—adds a hearty substance to the dish. It complements the pasta well, while infusing the meal with flavor. Bow tie pasta adds a playful twist, allowing the ingredients to cling beautifully for each bite. The addition of garlic and herbs rounds out the dish, introducing aromatic notes that elevate the overall taste.

Preparation/setup

Start by gathering all the ingredients needed for this delightful recipe. Ensure you have 3 cups of cubed butternut squash, 340 grams of halved Brussels sprouts, 225 grams of bow tie pasta, and 340 grams of cooked smoked sausage.

Preheat your oven to 200°C. This step is crucial as it sets the stage for perfectly roasted vegetables that will become caramelized and tender. Prepare two parchment paper-lined baking sheets—one for the butternut squash and one for the Brussels sprouts. Toss the cubed squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper, ensuring an even coating. Spread it out in a single layer on the first baking sheet.

Trim the Brussels sprouts, halve them, and toss them similarly with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Arrange them on the second baking sheet. Oven-roasting these veggies will not only enhance their flavors but also infuse the whole dish with a cozy aroma.

Ingredients

To create this vibrant Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 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
• 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

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C.
2. Toss the cubed butternut squash in a tablespoon of olive oil along with salt and pepper. Spread it in a single layer on one parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes, until tender and lightly caramelized.
3. In the meantime, prepare the Brussels sprouts. Halve the sprouts and toss them with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a separate lined baking sheet and roast along with the squash for 20-30 minutes.
4. While the vegetables roast, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bow tie pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and reserve a bit of the pasta water for later.
5. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Slice the cooked sausage into coins and cook until browned on both sides. Once browned, remove the sausage and set it aside.
6. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic, cooking until fragrant.
7. Add butter to the skillet and melt it down. Toss in the cooked pasta, coating it well. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
8. Once the vegetables are done roasting, combine the roasted butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, cooked sausage, and fresh thyme into the skillet. Gently mix everything together, adjusting seasoning as necessary.

Elevate Your Dish: Technique and Tips

The technique used in this Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash dish is fairly straightforward, focusing on roasting and sautéing. Roasting the butternut squash and Brussels sprouts not only caramelizes their natural sugars but also enriches their flavors. This method allows the vegetables to develop an irresistible texture and taste.

With some tips and tricks, you can enhance your cooking process. For instance, when preparing the vegetables, cut them into even sizes to ensure uniform roasting. Checking them periodically will prevent burning and keep them flavorful. Pay attention to the pasta’s cooking time to achieve that perfect al dente texture—it should be tender yet firm to the bite.

When frying the sausage, let it cook undisturbed for a few moments to develop a nice golden crust. This adds depth to the dish. Consider adjusting the amount of garlic based on your preference; it adds a lovely fragrance but can quickly overpower if overused.

Perfecting the Results

Perfecting this Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash dish might take a couple of tries, but it’s worth the effort. The key lies in balancing the flavors—sweet, savory, and aromatic. Consider experimenting with the types of smoked sausage to discover what suits your palate best. Cajun sausage provides a delightful kick, while regular smoked sausage offers a milder flavor.

If you find that the dish is too dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to bring everything together beautifully. A drizzle of olive oil before serving enhances the overall richness.

Troubleshooting/Variations

If you want to try variations, consider swapping in different vegetables such as sweet potatoes or asparagus for a new twist. These ingredients can easily complement the flavors in this comforting dish. You might also experiment with different pasta shapes—farfalle or penne could work wonders too.

In case the Brussels sprouts get too brown or crispy, try lowering the oven temperature slightly next time. If you’re not a fan of smoked sausage, using grilled chicken or a plant-based protein will still create a satisfying meal.

Serving and Storage Ideas

Serving this Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash brings a colorful presentation to your table. You can serve it in a large bowl or plate it individually. Garnish with additional fresh thyme leaves for added brightness and visual appeal. A sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan could elevate the dish even more, but that’s purely optional.

Storage is straightforward. Store any leftovers in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a touch of olive oil if needed to bring moisture back.

Pairings and Storage

Pairing this delightful dish with a light salad or crusty bread makes for a complete meal. The freshness of a simple arugula salad perfectly complements the hearty pasta flavors. Storing the dish is easy; simply keep it refrigerated for a few days for a quick lunch option or dinner reheating at home.

Conclusion

Creating an Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash dish not only delights the senses but also warms the heart. Through the simple yet vibrant ingredients, this meal embodies the joys of the season. From savory aromas flooding the kitchen to the satisfaction of sharing a hearty meal with loved ones, it captures the essence of home cooking. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this comforting recipe shines as a versatile favorite that celebrates the flavors of fall.

Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash

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• Author: emma
• Total Time: 65 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: None

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Description

A hearty autumn dish featuring roasted butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, and smoked sausage tossed with bow tie pasta for a comforting meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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
• 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

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C.
2. Toss the cubed butternut squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes until tender and lightly caramelized.
3. Prepare the Brussels sprouts by halving them and tossing with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a separate lined baking sheet and roast for 20-30 minutes.
4. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the bow tie pasta according to package directions until al dente, then drain and reserve a bit of pasta water.
5. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Slice the cooked sausage and cook until browned, then set aside.
6. Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook until fragrant.
7. Stir in the butter until melted, then add the cooked pasta and season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
8. Once roasted, combine the butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, cooked sausage, and fresh thyme in the skillet. Gently mix and adjust seasoning as necessary.

Notes

Experiment with different vegetables or types of sausage to suit your taste. Drizzling some olive oil before serving adds richness.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Roasting and Sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 45mg

Keywords: autumn, pasta, squash, sausage, comfort food, cozy meal