Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that brings the warmth of autumn to your dinner table, you’ve come to the right place! This Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite is not just a dish; it’s a hug in a bowl. With its hearty mix of roasted butternut squash, savory smoked sausage, and tender Brussels sprouts, this pasta dish is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. It’s quick to make, yet packed with flavor that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

What I love most about this recipe is how it celebrates the vibrant ingredients of fall. Each bite is rich and satisfying, making it an ideal choice when the weather turns crisp. Plus, it all comes together in one skillet, which means less time cleaning up and more time enjoying your meal with loved ones!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 25 minutes to prepare, making it a fantastic option for those hectic weeknights when time is short.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will love the comforting flavors of pasta paired with savory sausage and sweet butternut squash.
• One-Skillet Wonder: Cooking everything in one skillet means fewer dishes to wash and more time to relax after dinner.
• Customizable: You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or proteins, making this dish versatile for any taste preference.
• Flavorful Comfort Food: The combination of garlic butter sauce, smoked paprika, and fresh thyme creates a deliciously aromatic experience that screams fall!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients! This recipe calls for just a few items you might already have in your pantry. Together, they create a deliciously comforting meal that celebrates the flavors of the season.

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

For the 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

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have at home or your family’s preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken sausage or turkey sausage for a lighter option while still keeping those great flavors.
• Add more veggies: If you have seasonal vegetables like kale or spinach on hand, toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking for extra nutrition.
• Make it vegetarian: Leave out the sausage entirely and add chickpeas or lentils for plant-based protein.
• Change the pasta shape: Use any pasta shape you like—shells or penne work just as well as bow ties!

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 those lovely cubed butternut squash pieces with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness—trust me; this step makes all the difference! Bake them for about 15-20 minutes until they are tender and lightly caramelized.

Step 2: Roast the Brussels Sprouts

While your squash is roasting away, let’s prepare the Brussels sprouts! Trim and halve them before tossing them with olive oil, salt, and pepper as well. Spread them out on another baking sheet (or reuse the first one if there’s room!). Roast these beauties at 200°C for about 20-30 minutes until they are golden brown. The crispy edges add wonderful texture!

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil while your veggies roast. Add in your bow tie pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Remember to save a little bit of that pasta water before draining—it can help create a silky sauce later!

Step 4: Sauté the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat, add some olive oil. Slice your cooked smoked sausage into coins and sauté until browned on both sides—this adds flavor! Once done, remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 5: Create the Garlic Butter Sauce

In that same skillet (don’t wash it!), add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 30 seconds should do it! Then add butter until melted. Toss in your drained pasta along with seasoning—salt, pepper, and smoked paprika—to coat everything nicely.

Step 6: Combine Everything Together

Finally, return those roasted butternut squash cubes, Brussels sprouts, cooked sausage slices, and fresh thyme leaves back into the skillet. Gently mix everything together until combined. Taste it! Adjust seasoning if needed because we want every bite full of flavor.

And there you have it—a delightful Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash that’s ready in no time! Enjoy every warm mouthful as you savor this fall favorite with friends or family around your table.

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

Creating a delicious autumn dish doesn’t have to be complicated—follow these tips to elevate your cooking experience!

• Prep Ingredients Ahead: Chopping your vegetables and cooking your sausage in advance can save you time during the week. This makes it easier to whip up this comforting meal after a long day.
• Adjust the Spice Level: Feel free to tweak the amount of smoked paprika or add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like your pasta with a bit more heat. This personalization helps cater the dish to your taste preferences.
• Use Fresh Herbs: While fresh thyme adds an aromatic touch, consider incorporating other herbs like rosemary or sage for added depth of flavor. Fresh herbs bring brightness that complements the richness of the dish.
• Don’t Overcook Your Pasta: Aim for al dente when cooking your bow tie pasta. This ensures it remains firm and holds its shape, enhancing the overall texture of your dish.
• Experiment with Veggies: If Brussels sprouts aren’t your favorite, feel free to swap them out with other seasonal vegetables like kale or spinach. This flexibility allows you to use whatever is fresh and available.

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

Presenting your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash beautifully can make it even more enjoyable. Here are some ideas on how to serve this warm, hearty dish!

Garnishes

• Fresh Thyme Sprigs: A few sprigs of thyme not only enhance the aroma but also make for a lovely presentation.
• Grated Parmesan or Nutritional Yeast: Sprinkle some freshly grated cheese or nutritional yeast on top for a nutty flavor that complements the garlic butter sauce perfectly.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a light dusting adds both color and spice.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: A classic side that pairs wonderfully with pasta, garlic bread provides a crunchy contrast and is perfect for soaking up any remaining sauce.
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with leafy greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers freshness and balances the richness of the pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Keep things seasonal by roasting additional veggies such as carrots or zucchini alongside the squash. Their natural sweetness enhances the meal’s flavor profile.
• Apple Crisp: For dessert, consider serving apple crisp made with warm spices—it’s a delightful way to round out an autumn dinner!

By following these serving suggestions, you’ll create an inviting dining experience that’s as delightful as your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash itself! Enjoy every moment around the table this fall!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash is an excellent choice for meal prep! It’s not only quick to make but also holds its flavors beautifully, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Here’s how to store and enjoy your leftovers:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pasta to cool to room temperature before storage.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool completely before freezing.
• Portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I make Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can replace the smoked sausage with your favorite plant-based sausage or omit it altogether. The roasted vegetables add plenty of flavor.

How long does it take to prepare Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite?

This delightful dish comes together quickly! With prep and cooking time combined, you can enjoy it in just about 55 minutes.

What types of sausage work best in this recipe?

You can use any cooked smoked sausage like cajun or andouille. If you prefer a milder flavor, regular smoked sausage works great too!

Can I use other vegetables besides Brussels sprouts?

Yes! Feel free to substitute with seasonal veggies like kale, spinach, or even zucchini for a different twist on this comforting pasta dish.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! This recipe is fantastic for meal prep as it stores well and makes for easy reheating throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash! It’s a warm, hearty dish that captures all the cozy flavors of fall while being incredibly simple to whip up. Whether you’re enjoying it on a busy weeknight or serving it at a gathering, it’s sure to be a hit. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait for you to experience this comforting meal!