Delicious Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash

 

Craving a cozy and comforting meal that celebrates the flavors of fall? This Delicious Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash recipe brings together the sweetness of roasted butternut squash, savory Italian-style chicken sausage, and perfectly cooked pasta in a creamy Parmesan sauce. It’s ideal for a weeknight dinner or a potluck with friends, offering a delightful taste of rustic village kitchens with every bite. Let’s dive into the magic of this dish!

Why You’ll Love This Sausage Pasta Squash

Here’s why this Delicious Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash will become a new favorite:

• Ready in under an hour
• Features layers of savory and sweet flavors
• Budget-friendly ingredients
• Less cleanup than many pasta dishes
• The aroma fills your kitchen with warmth
• A bite that melts in your mouth
• Rekindles cozy family memories
• Simple enough for even novice cooks

Ingredients Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to create this autumn masterpiece. Remember to use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.

• 1 pound (450g) Italian-style chicken sausage, casings removed
• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried sage. Toasting the sage lightly will unlock its aromatic oils.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme. Sourcing thyme from local farmers’ markets ensures freshness.
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional), add more if you like some heat
• 1 pound (450g) pasta (penne, rotini, or farfalle work well)
• 4 cups (950ml) chicken broth
• 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Essential Equipment List

Make sure you have these tools to make cooking easier and more efficient:

• Baking sheet: Essential for roasting the butternut squash evenly.
• Large pot or Dutch oven: For cooking the sausage, sauce, and combining everything. A heavy pot retains heat best.
• Colander: Needed for draining the pasta.
• Cutting board and Knife: For prepping your veggies and sausage.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.

Recipe Details

Here’s a quick overview of what to expect:

• • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Servings: 6
  • Difficulty: Medium

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Scale up for a crowd; halve for solo dining.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your own delicious Sausage Pasta Squash:

Step 1: Roast the Squash

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized. Set aside once done.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the squash is roasting, cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside. Be sure to salt the pasta water for optimal flavor.

Step 3: Brown the Sausage

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat for a healthier dish.

Step 4: Sauté Aromatics

Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic, dried sage, thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds depth of flavor.

Step 5: Simmer in Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Deglaze for extra depth and richness.

Step 6: Combine and Finish

Add the cooked pasta and roasted butternut squash to the pot. Stir to combine, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated.

Step 7: Add Parmesan and Serve

Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.

Tips for Success

Here are some expert tips to ensure your Sausage Pasta Squash turns out perfectly every time:

• Avoid a burnt base: Lower the heat early if you notice the bottom of the pot getting too hot.
• Deglaze for extra depth: Don’t skip scraping up those browned bits after browning the sausage.
• Beginners, pre-measure: Pre-measure all your ingredients before you start cooking for smoother progress.
• Use a microplane: A microplane zests cheese fast and efficiently.
• Save time with pre-chopped veggies: Using pre-chopped onions and squash can cut down on prep time.

Variations & Substitutions

Customize your Sausage Pasta Squash to suit your tastes:

• Creamy version: Add a splash of heavy cream or cashew cream for extra richness.
• Vegetarian twist: Substitute the sausage with plant-based crumbles.
• Flavor boost: Add a pinch of nutmeg for a warm, comforting flavor.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings with Sausage Pasta Squash

Complete your meal with these delightful pairings:

• Serve with a crisp arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette.
• Pair with a glass of sparkling apple cider.
• Perfect as a fall harvest dinner.
• Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil for an elegant touch.

Health Benefits

This dish isn’t just delicious; it’s also packed with nutrients. Butternut squash is rich in vitamins A and C, while chicken sausage provides a good source of protein. The Parmesan cheese adds calcium. This meal is also high in fiber, aiding in digestion, and protein, which helps keep you full and energized.

Storage & Reheating

Here’s how to store and reheat your Sausage Pasta Squash:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. For the stovetop, add a splash of broth to prevent drying.
• Freezing: Portion and wrap tightly for freezing; lasts up to 2 months.

Cool fully before sealing to prevent spoilage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this recipe:

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe, but be sure to use a larger pot and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I use different types of squash?

Absolutely! Acorn squash or pumpkin would also work well in this recipe.

How do I avoid soggy pasta?

Be sure to drain the pasta well and avoid overcooking it. Add it to the sauce just before serving.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, substitute the chicken sausage with plant-based crumbles or leave it out altogether.

Can I add other vegetables?

Certainly! Spinach, kale, or roasted bell peppers would be great additions.

Nutritional Information

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 5g

Exact stats need a nutrition calculator.

More Delicious Dishes to Explore

Craving more hearty and comforting meals? Try these other recipes:

• Apple Bread: The Perfect Fall Treat – A delightful bread perfect for those crisp autumn days.
• Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage – Another great way to enjoy butternut squash with sausage!
• Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta – If you like this recipe, then you’ll love this one.

Conclusion

This Delicious Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash is fast, flavorful, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whip it up tonight—tag us with your masterpiece! Share this recipe with your friends and family who would love it! Join our vibrant community on Facebook and Pinterest for daily recipe inspiration, cooking tips, and more tasty ideas! Happy cooking! Let us know how it goes—comment below!

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