The aroma of autumn wraps around me like a warm blanket as I prepare to dive into my favorite dish: 25-Minute Autumn Sausage Pasta with Butternut Squash. There’s something magical about how savory, smoked sausage mingles with the sweet, tender butternut squash and earthy Brussels sprouts, creating a cozy fall-inspired meal. This Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash is not only a delightful one-skillet wonder, but it’s also the quick answer to busy weeknight dinners when comfort food is calling. And let’s not forget the best part: you can easily switch up the sausage or squash to suit your taste, making this dish versatile and exciting. Curious about how this delicious medley comes together? Let’s get cooking! Why is this recipe a must-try? Comforting, hearty experience: The combination of roasted butternut squash, savory sausage, and pasta creates a dish that’s both filling and delicious. One-skillet convenience: Save time and effort by cooking everything in one pan—less cleanup means more time for cozy evenings! Versatile flavors: Whether you prefer spicy Cajun or mild andouille, this recipe allows for creative twists. Quick preparation: In just 25 minutes, you’ll have a fulfilling meal—perfect for busy weeknights when you want something tasty without the fuss. For more ideas on quick and comforting dishes, check out my Cajun Sausage Pasta or Southern Squash Casserole recipes! Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash Ingredients • Get ready to create this cozy dish! For the Pasta Bow Tie Pasta (225 g) – This playful shape holds sauce exceptionally well. Use gluten-free pasta if necessary for dietary needs. For the Roasted Veggies Butternut Squash (3 cups) – Adds a delightful sweetness; swap with acorn squash or sweet potatoes for variation. Brussels Sprouts (340 g) – Their slight bitterness perfectly balances the sweet squash; halving them allows for even roasting. Olive Oil (4 tablespoons total) – Essential for roasting and sautéing; opt for extra-virgin olive oil for enhanced flavor. For the Sausage and Flavoring Smoked Sausage (340 g) – Provides a hearty, savory kick; choose pre-cooked Cajun or andouille for added spice or go for regular smoked sausage for a milder taste. Garlic (5 cloves, minced) – A must for flavor; be careful not to overcook it to avoid bitterness. Butter (2 tablespoons) – Creates a rich sauce, perfect for a cozy meal; can replace with vegan butter if desired. Smoked Paprika (¼ teaspoon) – Elevates the dish with its smoky flavor profile. Fresh Thyme Leaves – Introduces a fresh, aromatic element; rosemary also serves as a lovely substitute. Enjoy the seasonal flavors of this Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash as you savor each warm, satisfying bite! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (400°F). This temperature is perfect for roasting the vegetables, ensuring they caramelize and develop a rich flavor. While the oven warms up, prepare your butternut squash by peeling and cubing it into bite-sized pieces. Step 2: Roast the Butternut Squash In a large mixing bowl, toss the cubed butternut squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil along with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Spread the squash evenly on a baking sheet, then roast in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender and golden at the edges, releasing a sweet aroma. Step 3: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts While the squash is roasting, trim the Brussels sprouts and slice them in half. In the same bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with another tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Once the squash has roasted for 10 minutes, add the Brussels sprouts to the baking sheet, ensuring they are evenly spaced, and continue roasting for an additional 20-30 minutes until caramelized. Step 4: Cook the Pasta In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and add the bow tie pasta. Cook according to package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Before draining, reserve about a cup of the pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency later. Drain the pasta and set aside while you prepare the sausage. Step 5: Sauté the Sausage In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the sliced smoked sausage and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and heated through. The sausage will release its flavorful oils, adding richness to your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash. Remove the sausage and set aside. Step 6: Cook the Garlic In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously, until fragrant but not burnt. Be careful with the timing, as burnt garlic can affect the dish’s flavor. Once aromatic, add 2 tablespoons of butter and allow it to melt, creating a luscious base for your sauce. Step 7: Combine Pasta and Sauce Add the drained bow tie pasta into the skillet with the garlic and melted butter. Toss everything together smoothly, incorporating the garlic and butter throughout the pasta. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika to taste. If the mixture seems dry, gradually stir in some reserved pasta water until it’s saucy and well-coated. Step 8: Mix in Roasted Veggies and Sausage Return the roasted squash, Brussels sprouts, and sautéed sausage to the skillet with the pasta. Gently fold everything together, allowing the vibrant colors and flavors to blend harmoniously. Sprinkle fresh thyme leaves over the dish, ensuring every bite lingers with a lovely herbal note, then adjust seasoning if necessary. Step 9: Serve and Enjoy Serve the Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash immediately in warm bowls, adding extra thyme on top for garnish if you desire. This comforting meal showcases tender, roasted vegetables and hearty sausage, perfectly enveloped in flavorful pasta, making it a delightful dish for any fall evening. Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash Variations Feel free to customize your dish for a unique flavor experience that the whole family will love! Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with vegan butter, ensuring your dish remains rich and creamy without dairy. It’s perfect for those with lactose intolerance or vegan preferences. Vegetarian: Replace smoked sausage with veggie sausage crumbles or increase the amount of roasted seasonal vegetables for a filling, plant-based option. Try adding roasted mushrooms for an umami boost! Heat it Up: Incorporate red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while sautéing the garlic to add a spicy kick. This variation not only warms the dish but also enhances its flavor complexity! Different Squash: Swap butternut squash for acorn squash, sweet potatoes, or even pumpkin for a seasonal twist. Each type of squash will impart a slightly different sweetness and texture to the dish. Pasta Power: Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta instead of bow tie pasta to cater to dietary needs without sacrificing taste. You can also experiment with larger pasta shapes to create a hearty mouthfeel. Herb Infusion: Try mixing in fresh herbs like rosemary or sage for a different aromatic profile. These herbs complement the flavors of fall beautifully and give your dish an extra layer of depth. Nutty Texture: Toss in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts just before serving for a delightful crunchy contrast. This simple addition brings both texture and extra nutrients! For more comforting recipes, check out my Pizza Pasta Bake or indulge in Cheesy Sausage and Egg Wraps for a cozy breakfast twist! What to Serve with Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash A comforting and hearty dish deserves some delightful companions to round out your meal experience. Crisp Green Salad: This refreshing side brings a crunch that contrasts beautifully with the warm pasta, enhancing the overall texture. Tossed with a light lemon vinaigrette, it adds a zesty brightness to each bite. Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is an absolute must for mopping up every last bit of sauce. The savory richness makes for a perfect match, turning the dining experience into a cozy feast. Roasted Seasonal Veggies: Take advantage of fall’s bounty by serving an assortment of roasted carrots, parsnips, or cauliflower. Their earthy sweetness complements the pasta dish while offering vibrant colors on your plate. Herb-Infused Olive Oil: Drizzling a bit of herb-infused olive oil over your pasta before serving adds an extra layer of flavor and aromatic quality. It accentuates the fresh thyme and smoked paprika, uniting the dish beautifully. Warm Apple Cider: This comforting drink captures the essence of fall and pairs delightfully with the savory elements of the pasta. Sip slowly as you enjoy your meal for a full autumnal immersion. Pumpkin Spice Muffins: For a sweet finish, serve freshly baked pumpkin spice muffins. Their warmth and inviting spices prolong the cozy vibe and leave everyone yearning for seconds. How to Store and Freeze Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash Fridge: Store any leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days, ensuring the pasta stays fresh for another delicious meal. Freezer: You can freeze the Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash in airtight containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, allow it to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stove or in the microwave. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the pasta moist and flavorful. Room Temperature: It’s best to avoid keeping the dish at room temperature for longer than 2 hours to ensure food safety. Expert Tips for Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash • Choose Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh butternut squash and Brussels sprouts will enhance the flavor dramatically. Avoid pre-packaged veggies, as they can lack freshness. • Don’t Overcook Garlic: Quickly sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Overcooking makes it bitter and ruins the dish’s delicate flavor. • Adjust Sauce Consistency: If the pasta seems dry after mixing, save some reserved pasta water to stir in gradually until you achieve your desired creaminess. • Get Creative with Sausage: Feel free to experiment with different types of smoked sausage, like spicy Cajun or chicken sausage, to tailor the dish’s flavor to your preference. • Store Wisely: Any leftovers should be stored in airtight containers. The Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months. • Taste as You Go: Always taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process, especially when adding salt, to ensure a flavorful final dish. Make Ahead Options These delicious Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash components are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy this cozy dish with minimal fuss on busy nights! You can roast the butternut squash and Brussels sprouts up to 3 days in advance; simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, cook the bow tie pasta up to 24 hours ahead and toss it with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. When it’s time to serve, gently reheat the roasted vegetables and pasta in a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth to bring everything back to life. With these steps, you’ll savor every comforting bite of your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash just as delicious as if freshly made! Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best butternut squash? Absolutely! Look for butternut squash that feels heavy for its size with a smooth, cream-colored skin. Avoid any with dark spots or soft areas, as these indicate over-ripeness. A good squash should have a firm skin and a slightly dull sheen. What is the best way to store leftover Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash? To keep your leftovers fresh, store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Make sure the pasta has cooled before sealing to avoid condensation. If you plan to keep it longer, freeze it in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Can I freeze Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash? If so, how? Certainly! To freeze, portion the pasta into airtight containers, allowing a little space at the top for expansion. Ensure everything is well-cooled before sealing. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist and flavorful. How can I adjust the recipe for dietary restrictions? For those avoiding meat, simply substitute the smoked sausage with veggie sausage crumbles or an assortment of seasonal roasted vegetables. If you’re gluten-sensitive, using gluten-free bow tie pasta works perfectly! Always check the labels of any packaged ingredients for allergens. What should I do if the pasta turns out dry? Very good question! If your pasta seems dry after mixing, gradually add some reserved pasta water while stirring until you achieve the desired sauciness. This will help incorporate the flavors and moisture back into the dish without making it soggy. What if my Brussels sprouts are bitter? If your Brussels sprouts taste a bit bitter, try trimming off any brown or tough outer leaves before roasting. Toss them in olive oil along with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavors. Roasting them until caramelized also helps to balance the bitterness, giving a nutty sweetness instead! Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: A Cozy Bowl of Fall Flavor Experience the cozy flavors of Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash, a savory dish featuring sausage, butternut squash, and Brussels sprouts. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 25 minutes minsTotal Time 35 minutes mins Servings: 4 bowlsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta225 g Bow Tie Pasta Use gluten-free pasta if necessary for dietary needs.For the Roasted Veggies3 cups Butternut Squash Swap with acorn squash or sweet potatoes for variation.340 g Brussels Sprouts Halving them allows for even roasting.4 tablespoons Olive Oil Opt for extra-virgin olive oil for enhanced flavor.For the Sausage and Flavoring340 g Smoked Sausage Choose pre-cooked Cajun or andouille for added spice.5 cloves Garlic Minced.2 tablespoons Butter Can replace with vegan butter if desired.¼ teaspoon Smoked Paprika Elevates the dish with its smoky flavor.Fresh Thyme Leaves Rosemary also serves as a lovely substitute. Equipment large mixing bowlBaking sheetlarge potlarge skillet Method Step‑by‑Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Peel and cube the butternut squash into bite-sized pieces.Toss the cubed butternut squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for about 15-20 minutes.Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts. Toss with another tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. After 10 minutes of roasting the squash, add Brussels sprouts to the baking sheet and roast for an additional 20-30 minutes.In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and add the bow tie pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining.In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the sliced smoked sausage for 5-7 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.In the same skillet, lower heat and add minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add 2 tablespoons of butter and allow it to melt.Add the drained bow tie pasta into the skillet with garlic and melted butter. Toss together, season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika, and stir in reserved pasta water if needed.Fold in the roasted squash, Brussels sprouts, and sausage with the pasta, sprinkling fresh thyme leaves over the dish.Serve immediately in warm bowls, garnishing with extra thyme if desired. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 20gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 6gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 50mgCalcium: 60mgIron: 3mg NotesAdjust seasoning throughout cooking and store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
