Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash

A hearty dish that embodies the spirit of the season, Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. This recipe combines bow tie pasta with smoked sausage, roasted butternut squash, and Brussels sprouts, all tossed in a simple garlic butter sauce. Perfect for cozy dinners or family gatherings, it highlights the best of autumn’s bounty while being easy to prepare. The comforting elements make it an ideal choice for any occasion.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 55 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• One-Skillet Wonder: With minimal cleanup required, you’ll have more time to enjoy your meal and less time washing dishes.
• Rich Flavors: The combination of smoked sausage, roasted squash, and fresh thyme delivers a depth of flavor that speaks to autumn comfort food.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap in your favorite seasonal veggies or sausages to customize this dish to your liking.
• Nutritious and Filling: Packed with vegetables and protein, this pasta dish offers a wholesome meal that’s both satisfying and nourishing.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process of Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Baking sheet
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Parchment paper
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for sautéing ingredients together without overcrowding, ensuring even cooking.
• Baking sheet: Perfect for roasting vegetables evenly while allowing them to caramelize nicely.
• Pot for boiling pasta: Ensures that your pasta cooks thoroughly and maintains its al dente texture.

Ingredients

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 Dish

• 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

How to Make Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C. This ensures that your roasted vegetables cook properly.

Step 2: Roast Butternut Squash

1. Toss cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Spread in a single layer on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet.
3. Roast for 15-20 minutes until tender.

Step 3: Roast Brussels Sprouts

1. Trim and halve Brussels sprouts.
2. Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread on a separate parchment paper-lined baking sheet.
4. Roast at 200°C for 20-30 minutes.

Step 4: Cook Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook bow tie pasta according to package directions until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta and reserve some pasta water.

Step 5: Sauté Smoked Sausage

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Slice smoked sausage into coins and cook until browned on both sides.
3. Remove sausage from the skillet and set aside.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

1. In the same skillet, cook minced garlic until fragrant.
2. Add butter and melt it down.
3. Add cooked pasta into the skillet; toss well to coat with the butter mixture.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
5. Gently mix in roasted butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, cooked sausage, and fresh thyme leaves until combined.

Enjoy your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash as a delightful centerpiece for dinner!

How to Serve Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash

This hearty Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash dish is perfect as a main course, but it can also be complemented with various sides and garnishes. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped parsley – Sprinkle fresh parsley over the dish for a burst of color and freshness.
• Extra thyme leaves – Add more fresh thyme for an aromatic touch that enhances the autumn flavors.

With Cheese

• Parmesan cheese – Grate some parmesan on top for a salty, nutty flavor that pairs well with the pasta.
• Feta cheese – Crumbled feta offers a creamy, tangy contrast to the savory sausage and sweet squash.

With a Salad

• Mixed greens salad – Serve a side of mixed greens dressed lightly with olive oil and lemon juice to balance the richness of the pasta.
• Caesar salad – A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and creaminess that complements the main dish.

With Bread

• Garlic bread – Toasted garlic bread is perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce from your plate.
• Crusty artisan bread – Serve slices of crusty bread alongside to soak up the delicious flavors.

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How to Perfect Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash

To make your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash even more delightful, consider these tips. They will help you achieve a well-balanced and flavorful dish.

• Use seasonal squash – Opt for freshly harvested butternut squash to enhance sweetness and texture.
• Add heat with spices – Incorporate chili flakes or cayenne pepper if you enjoy a bit of spice in your pasta.
• Allow flavors to meld – Let the dish rest for a few minutes after cooking; this allows the flavors to combine beautifully.
• Adjust cooking time – Keep an eye on roasting times; every oven varies slightly, so ensure veggies are tender without burning.

Best Side Dishes for Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash

Pairing side dishes with your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options that complement its rich flavors.

1. Roasted Brussels sprouts – These add extra crunch and earthy flavor, echoing ingredients in the main dish.
2. Autumn vegetable medley – A mix of roasted carrots, sweet potatoes, and parsnips provides sweetness and variety.
3. Creamy mashed potatoes – Smooth mashed potatoes create a comforting contrast to the textured pasta.
4. Cranberry sauce – A tangy cranberry sauce adds brightness and acidity, balancing out the richness.
5. Apple cider vinaigrette coleslaw – The crispness of coleslaw with apple cider dressing adds freshness and crunch.
6. Stuffed mushrooms – Savory stuffed mushrooms offer an umami-packed bite that complements each forkful of pasta.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash, it’s easy to make missteps that can impact the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Ignoring seasoning: Not seasoning your ingredients properly can lead to blandness. Always taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper accordingly.
• Overcooking vegetables: Cooking your squash or Brussels sprouts for too long can make them mushy. Roast until they are tender but still firm.
• Using the wrong pasta type: Substituting bow tie pasta with a different shape can affect the overall texture. Stick to bow tie or a similar shape for best results.
• Skipping reserved pasta water: This starchy water helps bind the sauce and pasta together. Always remember to reserve some before draining your pasta.
• Not adjusting for personal taste: Each ingredient’s flavor can vary, so don’t hesitate to adjust spices according to what you like best.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash

• Oven: Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F) and reheat in an oven-safe dish for about 15 minutes, covered with foil.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash.

Can I use different types of sausage?

Yes! You can use any cooked smoked sausage like cajun or andouille for varied flavors.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

Simply omit the sausage and add more vegetables or beans for protein.

What other vegetables work well with this recipe?

You could consider adding spinach, kale, or even sweet potatoes for extra nutrition.

Can I prepare Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can roast the vegetables and cook the pasta in advance, then combine them when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash is not just a filling meal; it’s also incredibly versatile. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite seasonal veggies or adjusting the spices. This dish is perfect for cozy nights and is sure to satisfy your cravings!

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Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash

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• Author: Tia
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash is a warm and inviting dish that perfectly captures the essence of fall. This hearty recipe features bow tie pasta tossed with flavorful smoked sausage, tender roasted butternut squash, and crispy Brussels sprouts, all enveloped in a luscious garlic butter sauce. Combining rich textures and seasonal ingredients, it’s an ideal meal for cozy dinners or family gatherings. With minimal prep time and cleanup, this one-skillet wonder brings together comfort food at its finest, making it an easy choice for busy weeknights.

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Ingredients

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• 3 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 340 g Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 225 g bow tie pasta
• 340 g cooked smoked sausage
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Pepper
• Smoked paprika

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Toss butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast on a baking sheet for 15-20 minutes.
2. On another sheet, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper; roast for 20-30 minutes until golden.
3. Cook bow tie pasta according to package directions until al dente; reserve pasta water.
4. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté sliced sausage until browned. Remove and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, cook garlic in butter until fragrant. Add the pasta and mix well.
6. Incorporate roasted vegetables and sausage; season with smoked paprika.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Roasting, Sautéing, Boiling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 350g)
• Calories: 520
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 860mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 56g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 65mg