Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Warm up your fall evenings with this delightful Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash recipe! Featuring creamy, roasted butternut squash, savory sausage, and al dente pasta, this comforting dish captures the essence of the season in every bite. Perfect for cozy family dinners, it’s a delicious way to celebrate autumn flavors and bring everyone together for Thanksgiving gatherings.
This comforting autumn dish is perfect for cooler evenings, combining the sweetness of butternut squash with the savory flavor of sausage. It's a crowd-pleaser that will leave your family and friends asking for seconds!
Embrace the Flavors of Fall
Fall is a season that brings warmth and vibrant colors to our lives, and nothing captures its essence better than hearty meals. This Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash recipe is not just about nourishment; it's about celebrating the bounty of the season. Roasted butternut squash adds a sweet, nutty flavor, while the savory sausage provides a lovely contrast, creating a satisfying dish that embodies autumn's spirit.
Seasonal ingredients not only taste better but also contribute to supporting local farmers and reducing our environmental impact. By choosing produce like butternut squash, you're opting for ingredients that are fresher, more flavorful, and packed with nutrients. Plus, cooking with seasonal foods allows you to experiment with a range of dishes, making your meals delightful and diverse.
Perfect for Family Gatherings
When it comes to family gatherings, comfort food reigns supreme. This recipe is designed to bring people together, making it an excellent choice for your next family dinner or Thanksgiving celebration. Its creamy texture and rich flavors will have everyone reaching for seconds, ensuring that your meal is memorable and satisfying.
Moreover, the simplicity of this dish means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time with your loved ones. Preparing this Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash allows you to showcase your culinary skills without overwhelming yourself. Being able to prepare a meal that delights the palate while fostering connection is a win-win during the busy holiday season.
A Versatile Dish
One of the fantastic aspects of this Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash recipe is its versatility. Feel free to customize it according to your taste preferences; swap the sausage for turkey or a plant-based alternative for a lighter meal. You can also experiment with different types of pasta—rigatoni, penne, or even gluten-free options work beautifully in this dish.
Additionally, the creaminess of the dish enables you to add other vegetables, such as spinach or kale, for extra nutrition. If you like a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes to the mix. The opportunities for creativity are endless, making it easy to adapt this recipe to whatever ingredients you have on hand or to suit dietary restrictions.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 8 ounces of pasta (your choice)
- 1 pound of sausage (Italian or your preference)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh sage or thyme for garnish
Make sure to check your pantry for any additional spices or herbs you'd like to add!
Instructions
Roast the Butternut Squash
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread on a baking sheet. Roast for 25 minutes or until tender.
Cook the Pasta
While the squash is roasting, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving a little pasta water.
Brown the Sausage
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the sausage until fully cooked, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Combine Ingredients
Once the squash is done, add it to the skillet with the sausage. Pour in the heavy cream, and stir to combine. Mix in the cooked pasta and cheese, adding reserved pasta water as needed for creaminess.
Serve
Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs. Enjoy your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash!
Be sure to enjoy this dish with your favorite autumn beverage!
Storage Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers after making this delightful dish, you're in luck! Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to restore its creamy texture while reheating.
For longer storage, this dish also freezes well. Divide it into single-serving portions and freeze for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy a comforting meal, just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat. This makes it a fantastic meal prep option for those busy weeknights when you need something quick yet hearty.
Pairing Suggestions
To complement the rich flavors of the Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash, consider serving it with a crisp salad. A simple arugula salad dressed with olive oil and lemon juice balances the dish well, adding a refreshing element that cuts through the creaminess. You might also enjoy accompanying the meal with a warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
As for beverages, a medium-bodied white wine, such as Chardonnay, enhances the savory notes of the dish beautifully. If you'd prefer a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling apple cider or a herbal tea can also be delightful choices that echo the autumn theme of the meal.
Nutritional Insights
This Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash recipe not only satisfies the taste buds but also offers nutritional benefits. Butternut squash is rich in vitamins A and C, which are essential for eye health and supporting the immune system. Additionally, it provides dietary fiber, aiding digestion and promoting a feeling of fullness.
Choosing lean sausage can help keep the dish lighter while still delivering protein. For those mindful of calorie intake, using half-and-half or a lower-fat cream can reduce calories without sacrificing flavor. Incorporating seasonal vegetables adds further nutrients, making this dish not just hearty, but also healthful.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of squash?
Yes, you can substitute butternut squash with acorn squash or pumpkin.
→ Is this dish gluten-free?
You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.
Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash
Warm up your fall evenings with this delightful Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash recipe! Featuring creamy, roasted butternut squash, savory sausage, and al dente pasta, this comforting dish captures the essence of the season in every bite. Perfect for cozy family dinners, it’s a delicious way to celebrate autumn flavors and bring everyone together for Thanksgiving gatherings.
Created by: Emma Johnson
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients for Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 8 ounces of pasta (your choice)
- 1 pound of sausage (Italian or your preference)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh sage or thyme for garnish
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread on a baking sheet. Roast for 25 minutes or until tender.
While the squash is roasting, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving a little pasta water.
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the sausage until fully cooked, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Once the squash is done, add it to the skillet with the sausage. Pour in the heavy cream, and stir to combine. Mix in the cooked pasta and cheese, adding reserved pasta water as needed for creaminess.
Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs. Enjoy your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Total Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 25g