Name: Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
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

Why Make This Recipe

Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash is the perfect dish for fall. It combines the warm flavors of roasted butternut squash and Brussels sprouts with savory smoked sausage, making it a comforting and hearty meal. This dish is not only delicious but also a great way to enjoy seasonal produce. It’s easy to prepare, can be made in just one skillet, and is sure to please everyone at the table.

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How to Make Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash

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

Preheat the oven to 200°C (about 400°F). Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread the squash in a single layer on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes until tender.
While the squash is roasting, trim and halve the Brussels sprouts. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place them on a different parchment paper-lined baking sheet and roast in the same oven for 20-30 minutes until they are crispy and golden.
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the bow tie pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and reserve some of the pasta water for later use.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Slice the cooked sausage into coins and add them to the skillet. Cook the sausage until browned on both sides. Once done, remove it from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook it until fragrant. Then, add the butter and let it melt. Toss in the cooked pasta and stir to coat it. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
Add the roasted butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, cooked sausage, and fresh thyme to the skillet. Gently mix everything together and adjust the seasoning as needed.

How to Serve Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash

Serve the Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash warm, directly from the skillet. You can add extra fresh thyme or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top for an added touch. This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or crusty bread.

How to Store Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash

To store leftovers, allow the pasta to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.

Tips to Make Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash

Ensure that the butternut squash and Brussels sprouts are cut into similar sizes for even cooking.
Experiment with different types of smoked sausage for varied flavors.
For a vegetarian option, substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage or omit it entirely.

Variation

You can switch the bow tie pasta for any pasta shape you like, such as fusilli or penne. Additionally, feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for more color and nutrition.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the roasted vegetables and cook the pasta ahead of time. Just combine everything right before serving.

Can I freeze Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash?
It’s best to avoid freezing the dish, as the pasta and vegetables may become mushy once thawed. However, you can freeze the components separately.

What can I serve with this dish?
A simple green salad and some garlic bread make great accompaniments to this hearty pasta dish. You can also serve it with a light vinaigrette to balance the flavors.