Delicious Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash

 

Ever craved a comforting pasta dish that embodies the essence of autumn? This Delicious Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash recipe is your answer! With silky butternut squash, savory chicken sausage, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a symphony of flavors and textures that’s both easy to make and guaranteed to impress. Inspired by cozy fall evenings, this dish brings warmth and satisfaction to your table. Let’s dive into this culinary magic!

Why You’ll Love This Sausage Pasta Squash Recipe

This Delicious Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash is set to become a family favorite. Here’s why:

• Ready in under 45 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Combines sweet, savory, and earthy flavors in every bite.
• Budget-friendly, using readily available ingredients.
• Offers layers of comforting textures from creamy squash to hearty sausage.
• Easier cleanup than traditional pasta dishes.
• Fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.
• Simple enough for even beginner cooks to master.

This recipe effortlessly blends convenience with gourmet flavor.

Ingredients Needed for Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash

Gather these vibrant ingredients to create your Delicious Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash:

• 1 pound (450g) Italian chicken sausage, casings removed
• 1 medium (about 2 pounds/900g) butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup (120ml) chicken broth
• 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 pound (450g) pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
• 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the best flavor, use high-quality chicken sausage and a ripe butternut squash. Find fresh parsley at your local farmers’ market for an extra burst of freshness.

Pro Tip: Toast the dried sage lightly in a dry pan for about 30 seconds to release its aromatic oils, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the dish.

Essential Equipment List

Make sure you have these tools ready for a smooth cooking experience:

• • Large pot: Essential for cooking the pasta.
  • Large skillet or pot: Needed for browning the sausage and simmering the squash.
  • Spoon: For stirring and breaking up the sausage.
  • Knife: Crucial for chopping vegetables.
  • Cutting board: To protect your countertops while chopping.

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• Colander: For draining the cooked pasta.

A good quality skillet ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.

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

Feel free to scale this recipe up or down depending on the number of servings you need.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Delicious Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash

Follow these detailed instructions to create your Delicious Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Cook the pasta according to the package directions. Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside. Don’t overcook; al dente is the way to go!

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the chicken sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Make sure to crumble the sausage evenly for consistent cooking.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more. The onion should be translucent and the garlic fragrant.

Step 4: Simmer the Squash

Add the cubed butternut squash and chicken broth to the skillet. Season with sage, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then cover and cook until the squash is tender, about 15-20 minutes. Check the squash with a fork; it should be easily pierced when done.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Stir in the cooked pasta and Parmesan cheese. Toss to combine. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley. The Parmesan should melt into a creamy sauce.

Pro Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining and add it to the sauce. The starch in the water helps to thicken the sauce and bind it to the pasta.

YOU MIGHT LOVE: Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage Recipe – A delightful twist with pillowy gnocchi.

Tips for Success with Sausage Pasta Squash

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

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Brown the sausage in batches if necessary to ensure it gets a nice sear.
• Cut squash evenly: Uniformly sized squash cubes cook at the same rate.
• Taste and adjust: Seasoning is key. Taste the sauce before adding the pasta and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
• Use fresh Parmesan: Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly.
• Garnish generously: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.

Adjust cooking times based on your stove and the size of your squash cubes.

Variations & Substitutions

Customize your Delicious Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash to your liking with these variations:

• • Vegetarian: Omit the sausage and add roasted vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini.
  • Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or use a spicy Italian chicken sausage.
  • Creamy: Stir in a dollop of cream cheese or mascarpone for extra richness.

• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta.

Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary for a unique flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings with Delicious Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash

Complete your meal with these delicious pairings:

• Side Salad: A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette.
• Roasted Vegetables: Brussels sprouts or carrots for added nutrients.
• Crusty Bread: To soak up the delicious sauce.

This dish is perfect for a cozy fall dinner or a casual gathering.

Health Benefits

This Delicious Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients:

Butternut squash is rich in vitamins A and C, providing antioxidants and immune-boosting benefits. Chicken sausage offers a good source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. Whole grain pasta adds fiber, aiding digestion and promoting a feeling of fullness.

Storage & Reheating

Here’s how to properly store and reheat your leftovers:

Store leftover Delicious Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if the pasta seems dry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of squash?

Yes, you can substitute butternut squash with acorn squash or pumpkin. The cooking time may vary slightly, so keep an eye on it.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the butternut squash sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, cook the pasta and combine it with the sauce.

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?

Toss the cooked pasta with a little olive oil before adding it to the sauce. This will help prevent it from sticking together.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze leftover Delicious Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?

If you’re dairy-free, you can use nutritional yeast or a vegan Parmesan cheese alternative.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 5g

Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

More Delicious Dishes to Explore

Craving more comforting and flavorful recipes? Give these a try!

• CHECK OUT: Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta – A simple yet satisfying classic.
• CHECK OUT: Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage – A hearty soup perfect for chilly evenings.
• CHECK OUT: Chicken Cheddar Gnocchi Soup Creamy Cheesy Cozy Comfort Food – A rich and comforting soup with pillowy gnocchi.

Conclusion

This Delicious Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash is fast, flavorful, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Whip it up tonight and tag us with your masterpiece!

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