Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash

Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash is the perfect dish for a cozy fall evening. This hearty meal combines savory flavors and seasonal ingredients, making it ideal for family dinners or intimate nights at home. With its rich taste and easy preparation, this recipe will quickly become a favorite as you embrace the warmth of autumn.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy One-Skillet Meal: Enjoy minimal cleanup with everything cooked in one skillet.
• Hearty and Flavorful: The combination of smoked sausage, butternut squash, and Brussels sprouts creates a deliciously satisfying dish.
• Seasonal Ingredients: Celebrate autumn with fresh, seasonal produce that enhances the flavor profile.
• Customizable Options: Easily swap ingredients to accommodate different tastes or dietary preferences.
• Quick Preparation: Ready in under an hour, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.

Tools and Preparation

To make Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Baking sheets
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for cooking all ingredients together, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Baking sheets: Perfect for roasting vegetables like butternut squash and Brussels sprouts to achieve a crispy texture.
• Pot for boiling pasta: Ensures even cooking of bow tie pasta while making it easy to drain when done.

Ingredients

For the Roasted Vegetables

• 3 cups butternut squash, peeled, seeded, cubed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for butternut squash)
• salt and pepper to taste (for butternut squash)
• 340 g Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for Brussels sprouts)
• salt and pepper to taste (for Brussels sprouts)

For the Pasta Dish

• 225 g bow tie pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for pasta dish)
• 340 g cooked smoked sausage
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• salt and pepper to taste (for pasta dish)
• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
• fresh thyme leaves

How to Make Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) so it’s ready for roasting vegetables.

Step 2: Roast the 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 about 15-20 minutes until tender.

Step 3: Roast the Brussels Sprouts

1. Trim and halve Brussels sprouts; toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Spread on another parchment paper-lined baking sheet.
3. Roast for about 20-30 minutes until crispy.

Step 4: Cook the Bow Tie 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, reserving some pasta water for later use.

Step 5: Cook the Smoked Sausage

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

Step 6: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

1. In the same skillet, cook minced garlic until fragrant.
2. Add butter and let it melt completely.

Step 7: Combine Everything Together

1. Add cooked bow tie pasta to skillet; toss to coat with garlic butter sauce.
2. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
3. Gently mix in roasted butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, cooked sausage, and fresh thyme until well combined. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delightful Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash! Perfectly balanced with rich flavors, this dish is sure to impress everyone at your table.

How to Serve Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash

This Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash is a versatile dish that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Family Style

• Serve the pasta directly from the skillet for a rustic, homey feel. Allow everyone to help themselves, creating a relaxed atmosphere.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each plate with additional fresh thyme leaves or parsley for a burst of color and flavor. This adds a fragrant touch that elevates the dish.

Accompanied by Cheese

• Offer grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese on the side. A sprinkle of cheese just before serving enhances the richness of the dish.

Paired with Bread

• Serve with warm crusty bread or garlic bread. This makes for perfect dipping into the delicious garlic butter sauce.

On a Bed of Greens

• For a lighter option, serve the pasta over a bed of fresh spinach or arugula. The greens will wilt slightly from the heat, adding freshness to each bite.

How to Perfect Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash

To make your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash even better, consider these helpful tips for achieving the best flavors and textures.

• Choose Quality Sausage: Opt for high-quality smoked sausage to enhance the overall flavor profile of your dish.
• Don’t Overcook Vegetables: Be careful not to over-roast the butternut squash and Brussels sprouts; they should be tender yet slightly crisp.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste your dish before serving and adjust salt, pepper, and smoked paprika to suit your preferences.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Keep some pasta water when draining; you can use it to adjust sauce consistency if needed.

Best Side Dishes for Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash

Enhance your meal by pairing Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash with these delightful side dishes that complement its flavors beautifully.

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted slices topped with garlic butter make for a savory accompaniment that pairs perfectly with the pasta’s sauce.
2. Roasted Root Vegetables: A mix of carrots, parsnips, and potatoes seasoned and roasted brings earthy sweetness to the table.
3. Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty pasta.
4. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds vibrant color and nutrients, balancing out the richness of the pasta dish.
5. Creamy Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity that cuts through the creamy elements of the main course.
6. Quinoa Salad: A chilled quinoa salad with diced cucumbers, bell peppers, and lemon dressing gives a nutty complement alongside your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can make your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash even better. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping ingredient prep: Ensure all vegetables are properly prepared before cooking. This saves time and enhances the dish’s texture.
• Overcooking pasta: Cook bow tie pasta only until al dente. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and ruin the overall dish.
• Neglecting seasoning: Always taste and adjust seasoning at each stage. Under-seasoned dishes lack flavor, making it essential to season as you go.
• Crowding the pan: When cooking sausage or vegetables, give them space. Overcrowding leads to steaming instead of browning, which affects flavor.
• Rushing the roasting process: Take your time when roasting squash and Brussels sprouts. Proper roasting enhances their natural sweetness and gives a delightful texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash

• Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What ingredients are needed for Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash?

You will need butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, bow tie pasta, smoked sausage, garlic, butter, olive oil, and seasonings like salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.

Can I make Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the smoked sausage for chickpeas or a plant-based sausage alternative to create a delicious vegetarian version.

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

The total time for preparation and cooking is approximately 55 minutes—making it a quick and satisfying meal option!

What can I add to enhance nutrition in this recipe?

Consider adding kale or spinach for extra vitamins. They can easily be mixed into the pasta without affecting the flavors significantly.

Final Thoughts

Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash is not just a hearty meal; it’s an embrace of autumn’s flavors in one bowl. The combination of roasted vegetables with savory sausage makes it versatile enough for family dinners or cozy nights in. Feel free to customize with your favorite seasonal veggies or proteins for an even more personal touch!