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Why Make This Recipe

Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash is a perfect dish for fall. It brings together the warm, comforting flavors of roasted butternut squash and Brussels sprouts, along with savory smoked sausage. This recipe is delightful, filling, and easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The combination of textures and tastes is sure to impress family and friends. Plus, it’s colorful and brings the essence of the harvest season right to your table.

How to Make Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash

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

Directions

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
Toss the cubed butternut squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread it in a single layer on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes until tender.
Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts. Toss them with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread in a single layer on another parchment paper-lined baking sheet and roast at 200°C for 20-30 minutes.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bow tie pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and reserve some pasta water.
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Slice the sausage into coins and cook until browned on both sides. Remove the sausage and set aside.
In the same skillet, cook the minced garlic until fragrant. Add the butter and melt.
Add the cooked pasta and toss to coat. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
Add the roasted butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, cooked sausage, and fresh thyme to the skillet. Gently mix to combine everything. Adjust seasoning as needed.

How to Serve Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash

Serve the pasta warm, garnished with extra fresh thyme leaves if desired. It pairs wonderfully with a side salad or crusty bread. This dish is perfect for a cozy family meal or can be served as a main course at a dinner party.

How to Store Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash

To store leftovers, place the pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen it up. You can also microwave it for a quick option.

Tips to Make Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash

You can use any type of pasta you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
For extra flavor, try adding grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
Feel free to add other seasonal vegetables like kale or spinach for more nutrition.

Variation

For a vegetarian version, omit the sausage and add more vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers. You can also use plant-based sausage if you want a similar flavor and texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen butternut squash?
Yes, frozen butternut squash can be used. Just adjust the roasting time as it may cook faster.

2. What kind of sausage works best?
Any smoked sausage like cajun, andouille, or regular smoked sausage will work great in this recipe. Choose one based on your flavor preference.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the components (roasted vegetables and sausage) ahead of time and mix them with freshly cooked pasta just before serving for the best taste.