Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite

The air is crisp outside, and there’s a golden glow pouring in through the kitchen window. You hear the satisfying sizzle of sausage in the pan, mingling with the fragrant aroma of garlic as it begins to brown. These moments might feel fleeting, but they carry the essence of what home cooking is all about. This is the spirit behind my go-to dish for busy fall evenings: Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash, a vibrant and hearty meal that I can whip up in just 25 minutes.

Why Make This Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite

Life in New York City can be chaotic. Between school runs, work deadlines, and after-school activities, finding time to gather the family for a nutritious meal isn’t always easy. This is why I treasure recipes like Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash. It’s simple enough to prepare on the busiest nights, yet comforting and satisfying.

This dish isn’t just food; it’s a warm hug on a plate. When I bring this pasta to the table, I see the smiles on my kids’ faces, and I hear their excited chatter about today’s events. It’s these small moments that make cooking worth it. It creates connection, fosters conversation, and builds memories. And just like that, a regular weeknight transforms into a special family gathering.

The Cooking Process Explained

“Every time I stir this pot, it smells just like Sunday at home.”

Cooking Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash feels like a joyful celebration of fall. You start with the vibrant colors of butternut squash and the earthy green of Brussels sprouts. The kitchen fills with aromas that speak of warmth and comfort. Roasting the squash brings out its natural sweetness, while the sausage gives the dish a smoky richness. Once everything comes together, you’ll feel like you’ve captured autumn in a bowl.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to happiness in the kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need for this cozy dish:

• 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

I like to use fresh thyme for this recipe; it adds a delightful earthiness that connects it all. You can find it at your local grocery store or farmer’s market.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat oven to 200°C.
2. Toss cubed butternut squash with one tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread in a single layer on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes until tender.
3. While the squash roasts, trim and halve the Brussels sprouts. Toss them with two tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread in a single layer on a separate parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Roast at 200°C for 20-30 minutes until starting to brown and crisp.
4. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook bow tie pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and reserve some pasta water.
5. Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Slice sausage into coins and cook until browned on both sides, about 4-5 minutes. Remove sausage and set aside.
6. In the same skillet, cook the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add butter and melt it into the garlic.
7. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
8. Gently mix in the roasted butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, cooked sausage, and fresh thyme. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Each step of this recipe is quick and rewarding. The sizzle of the sausage, the aroma of garlic, and the colorful presentation invite everyone to the kitchen. Enjoy the little moments as you prepare this dish.

Serving Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite at the Family Table

When I serve Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash, it feels like a family event. Placing a big bowl on the table, I see steam rising from the pasta—it’s a welcoming sight. Clinking dishes and laughter fill the air as everyone digs in.

To make it even cozier, I often add a simple salad on the side—a mix of arugula with a light vinaigrette. It balances the richness of the pasta and offers a fresh crunch. As we eat, we share stories from our day, and I can see my children grateful for a hearty meal. Cooking is what ties us together, reminding us how important it is to come together at the end of a busy day.

Storing and Reheating Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite

After delighting in this meal, you might find some leftovers. Not to worry! Storing Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash is simple and practical.

Keep any uneaten pasta in an airtight container in the fridge. It will last for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat the pasta in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of reserved pasta water to keep it moist and flavorful.

If you want to extend its shelf life, consider freezing portions. It can stay in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. Leftover flavors often deepen overnight, making your next meal just as delightful as the first.

Quick Tips from My Kitchen

Here are a few tips that I’ve learned along the way while making Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash:

1. Make it a One-Pan Meal: If you’re in a hurry, you can roast the Brussels sprouts and butternut squash on the same sheet pan to save time.
2. Fresh Herbs: Always add fresh herbs just before serving. They brighten the dish and add a delightful aroma.
3. Pasta Water is Gold: Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water. It’s starchy and can help to create a creamy texture when mixed into the sauce.
4. Experiment with Sausage: Feel free to swap out the sausage for chicken, turkey, or even a plant-based option. They all work beautifully.
5. Add More Veggies: If you’ve got other veggies in your fridge, toss them in! Peppers or zucchini would also provide great flavor and color.

Variations on Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite

One of the joys of cooking is the ability to customize recipes to your tastes. I’ve made Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash countless times, and each time it feels like a new dish. Here are some ways to switch it up:

• Cheesy Delight: Add freshly grated Parmesan cheese at the end for a creamy finish.
• Nutty Flavor: Toss in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a delightful crunch and an extra layer of flavor.
• Spicy Kick: If your family enjoys a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes when cooking the sausage.
• Seasonal Twist: Use seasonal vegetables in place of Brussels sprouts, such as kale, spinach, or even roasted carrots.

Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash

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• Author: cookthatdish
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Diet: Paleo

Print Recipe

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Description

A vibrant and hearty dish that captures the flavors of fall in just 25 minutes.

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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

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 200°C.
2. Toss cubed butternut squash with one tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread in a single layer on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes until tender.
3. While the squash roasts, trim and halve the Brussels sprouts. Toss them with two tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread in a single layer on a separate parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Roast at 200°C for 20-30 minutes until starting to brown and crisp.
4. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook bow tie pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and reserve some pasta water.
5. Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Slice sausage into coins and cook until browned on both sides, about 4-5 minutes. Remove sausage and set aside.
6. In the same skillet, cook the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add butter and melt it into the garlic.
7. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
8. Gently mix in the roasted butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, cooked sausage, and fresh thyme. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Can be frozen for up to three months. Reserve pasta water for creamy texture.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Roasting
• Cuisine: American

FAQs About Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, I often prep it in the morning before the girls wake up, then finish it right before dinner. This keeps the flavor fresh and saves time later.

Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! While bow tie pasta works perfectly here, feel free to use penne, fusilli, or any pasta you prefer.

Is this dish kid-friendly?
Definitely. The flavors are mild, and the recipe is simple enough for kids to enjoy. Plus, they can help toss the ingredients together!

How long does it take to prepare?
This recipe is designed to be quick, taking around 25 minutes from start to finish.

Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily substitute sausage with plant-based options and add more vegetables to enhance the dish.

A Final Thought

As I sit back and watch my family enjoy Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash, my heart is full. Cooking is not just about nourishing our bodies; it’s about nourishing our souls. It’s these moments—cooking, laughing, sharing—that stitch our lives together. I invite you to rediscover the joys of home cooking, taking the time to bond with your loved ones around the kitchen table. No matter how busy life gets, remember that cooking a simple, tasty meal can weave magic into our everyday lives. Enjoy every moment, and happy cooking!