Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that screams autumn, then you’ve come to the right place! My Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite is the perfect blend of hearty flavors and warm spices that will leave you feeling satisfied. It’s a delightful medley of bow tie pasta, smoky sausage, roasted butternut squash, and Brussels sprouts, all tossed together in a simple garlic butter sauce. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Everyone will love it!

What makes this recipe truly special is how it brings together the best of fall ingredients. The sweetness of the butternut squash pairs perfectly with the savory notes of smoked sausage. Plus, it all comes together in just about 25 minutes! Trust me; once you try this dish, it will become a staple in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 25 minutes of cooking time, this recipe is perfect for those hectic weeknights when you need something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: The rich flavors and fun bow tie pasta make this dish appealing to both kids and adults alike!
• One-Skillet Wonder: Fewer dishes means more time enjoying your meal and less time cleaning up afterward—win-win!
• Seasonal Goodness: Featuring fresh fall ingredients like butternut squash and Brussels sprouts, this dish truly captures the essence of autumn.
• Make-Ahead Potential: Prep some ingredients ahead of time to whip this up even faster on busy nights.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this scrumptious Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. Here’s what you’ll gather from your kitchen:

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 and Sausage

• 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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use turkey sausage or chicken for a lighter option that’s just as delicious.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale for an extra boost of nutrition.
• Change the pasta shape: If you don’t have bow tie pasta, any pasta shape will work well—penne or fusilli are great alternatives!
• Make it vegan: Substitute smoked tofu for sausage and use vegan butter for a plant-based version everyone can enjoy.

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

Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash

Preheat your oven to 200°C. Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spreading it in a single layer on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet ensures even cooking. Roast for about 15-20 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized. This step enhances the natural sweetness of the squash!

Step 2: Prepare Brussels Sprouts

While your squash is roasting, trim and halve your Brussels sprouts. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper before spreading them out on another parchment-lined baking sheet. They’ll roast alongside the squash for about 20-30 minutes until they are golden brown. This roasting brings out their nutty flavor!

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil while your vegetables roast. Add in the bow tie pasta according to package directions until al dente. Be sure to reserve some pasta water before draining—the starchy water can help adjust your sauce later if needed.

Step 4: Brown the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sliced sausage coins. Cook them until browned on both sides before removing them from the skillet and setting aside. Browning adds a nice depth of flavor that complements everything else in this dish.

Step 5: Sauté Garlic & Combine Ingredients

In that same skillet, toss in minced garlic until fragrant—this should only take about a minute! Then add butter until melted. Now it’s time to add your cooked pasta into this garlicky goodness along with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika to season everything beautifully.

Step 6: Mix Everything Together

Finally, fold in those roasted butternut squash cubes, Brussels sprouts, cooked sausage slices, and fresh thyme leaves into your skillet. Gently mix everything together so each bite is bursting with flavor! Adjust seasoning as necessary to suit your taste.

And there you have it—your very own Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite! Enjoy every warm bite with loved ones around your table!

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

Creating the perfect Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash can be a delightful experience with just a few handy tips!

• Choose fresh ingredients: Fresh butternut squash and Brussels sprouts enhance flavors and provide better texture, making your dish not only tastier but also more nutritious.

• Don’t rush the roasting: Allowing the squash and Brussels sprouts to roast until they are nicely caramelized brings out natural sweetness and adds depth to the overall flavor profile of the meal.

• Reserve pasta water: Saving a bit of pasta water before draining can help adjust the sauce’s consistency later. The starch in the water creates a creamy texture that clings beautifully to your ingredients.

• Mix it up with spices: Feel free to experiment with spices! If you enjoy heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or using spicy smoked sausage for an extra kick.

• Make it ahead: This dish can be prepped in advance! Roast the veggies and cook the pasta ahead of time, then toss everything together right before serving for an easy weeknight dinner.

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

Serving your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash beautifully can make this comforting dish even more inviting. Here are some ideas to enhance your presentation!

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley or basil: Chopped herbs add a splash of color and freshness, complementing the rich flavors of the pasta.
• Grated Parmesan or dairy-free alternative: A sprinkle of cheese on top provides a savory finishing touch that enhances every bite.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: A warm, crusty loaf brushed with garlic-infused olive oil is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty pasta.
• Roasted Root Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like carrots and sweet potatoes roasted in olive oil make for a colorful and nutritious side that ties into the fall theme.
• Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans tossed with lemon juice add brightness to your plate while providing crunch.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to create an incredible dining experience around your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash! Enjoy every cozy spoonful.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash is a fantastic dish for meal prep! It holds up beautifully in the fridge, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pasta to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Label your container with the date, so you know when to enjoy this comforting meal by.

Freezing

• Portion out the pasta into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
• For best results, consider using freezer bags; just squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or reheat directly from frozen in a skillet over low heat.
• Add a splash of water or vegetable broth while reheating to prevent sticking and enhance moisture.
• Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-10 minutes on medium heat.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might pop up as you prepare your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash!

Can I use a different type of pasta for Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap bow tie pasta with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli. Just remember cooking times may vary slightly.

How long does it take to make Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash?

This delicious dish can be prepared in just 25 minutes! It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that feels special and comforting.

Can I customize the vegetables in this recipe?

Yes! You can easily substitute other seasonal veggies like zucchini, kale, or even sweet potatoes. Just make sure they are prepped and cooked similarly for best results.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate that captures all the flavors of fall. Whether you’re feeding your family or treating yourself after a long day, this recipe is sure to please. Enjoy every bite and feel free to share your experience—I love hearing from fellow food lovers!