Name: Cozy Autumn Sausage Pasta with Butternut Squash Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces bow tie pasta (any pasta shape can be used); 2 cups butternut squash (cubed); 2 cups Brussels sprouts (trimmed and halved); 2 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil); 12 ounces smoked sausage (Cajun or Andouille varieties recommended); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 4 tablespoons butter (or plant-based butter); 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika); 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or dried thyme in pinch)

As I stood in my kitchen, the smell of roasted butternut squash began to mingle with the earthy aroma of Brussels sprouts. It was a joyful moment, reminiscent of cozy autumn evenings spent with loved ones. This Easy Autumn Sausage Pasta with Butternut Squash is my go-to comfort food that captures the spirit of the season. With smoky sausage laced in a rich garlic butter sauce, this dish not only warms the heart but also nourishes the soul, making it perfect for busy weeknights—ready in just 55 minutes. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt for vegetarian diets with a few simple swaps! Curious how these flavors come together into an irresistible one-skillet meal? Let’s dive in!

What Makes This Pasta Dish Special?

Comforting warmth: This Easy Autumn Sausage Pasta brings the cozy essence of fall to your table, perfect for those crisp evenings. Flavor-packed goodness: With rich smoked sausage and sweet butternut squash, every bite is a delightful balance of savory and sweet. One-skillet simplicity: Quick to prepare and clean up, this dish saves you time without sacrificing flavor. Versatile options: Whether you prefer a hearty, meaty dish or a vibrant veggie version, this recipe can easily be adjusted. Perfectly paired with a crisp green salad, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike!

Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash Ingredients

Let’s gather all the delicious components for this comforting dish that embodies the flavor of fall!

For the Pasta
Bow Tie Pasta – A playful shape that holds onto the sauce beautifully; feel free to use any pasta you have on hand.
For the Roasted Veggies
Butternut Squash – Adds natural sweetness and creaminess; try acorn squash or sweet potatoes for a different twist.
Brussels Sprouts – Brings a hint of bitterness to balance the sweet squash; can be swapped for green beans if desired.
Olive Oil – Essential for roasting; you may substitute with vegetable oil for a lighter option.
For the Flavor
Smoked Sausage – Delivers rich, savory flavor; Cajun or Andouille varieties will spice things up, while regular smoked sausage offers a milder taste.
Garlic – Infuses a wonderful aroma; be careful not to overcook to avoid bitterness.
Butter – Creates a silky, lush sauce; opt for plant-based butter to make it dairy-free.
Smoked Paprika – Adds warmth and depth to the dish; regular paprika can be used for a milder flavor.
Fresh Thyme – Gives an aromatic herbal lift; dried thyme is a suitable substitute in a pinch.

Feel free to explore these ingredients to create your own twist on this comforting Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash!

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 generous temperature will provide the perfect environment for roasting the vegetables, setting the stage for the comforting flavors in your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash. While the oven warms up, you can proceed with preparing the butternut squash.

Step 2: Roast the Butternut Squash
In a mixing bowl, toss your cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated. Spread the squash in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast it in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pieces are golden brown and tender, giving your kitchen that inviting autumn aroma.

Step 3: Roast the Brussels Sprouts
After the butternut squash has been in the oven for about 10 minutes, prepare your Brussels sprouts. Trim and halve them, then toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add them to another parchment-lined baking sheet and roast for 20-30 minutes until they are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, adding depth to your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta
While the vegetables are roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add bow tie pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, typically 7-10 minutes. Once done, reserve about a cup of pasta water for later use, then drain the pasta and set it aside to wait for the flavorful sauce.

Step 5: Brown the Sausage
In a large skillet over medium heat, drizzle a touch of olive oil and add your sliced smoked sausage. Sauté them for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until they turn brown and crispy. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside, allowing the delicious sausage flavor to linger in the pan for the sauce.

Step 6: Sauté the Garlic
Using the same skillet, lower the heat and add minced garlic to the remaining sausage drippings. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes or until the garlic is fragrant and golden, but be careful not to burn it. This aromatic step will create a lovely base for the garlic butter sauce in your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash.

Step 7: Prepare the Garlic Butter
Add butter to the skillet with the garlic, allowing it to melt completely over low heat. As the butter transforms into a silky sauce, stir in smoked paprika for added warmth. This garlic butter will beautifully coat your pasta and vegetables, enhancing every bite of your delightful Autumn Sausage Pasta.

Step 8: Combine and Serve
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained pasta, roasted butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, and the crispy sausage. Pour the garlic butter sauce over the top and gently toss everything together until well combined. Adjust seasonings to taste and sprinkle fresh thyme for an aromatic finish to your warm, comforting Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash.

How to Store and Freeze Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash

Refrigeration: Store your Autumn Sausage Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This keeps it fresh and flavorful for those busy weeknights.

Freezing: If you’d like to save it for later, you can freeze the pasta dish for up to 3 months. Make sure it’s cooled completely before transferring it to an airtight freezer-safe container.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist and delicious.

Storage Tips: To maintain the best texture, store sausage and vegetables separately if possible, and combine them just before serving.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Autumn Sausage Pasta with Butternut Squash are perfect for meal prep! You can roast the butternut squash and Brussels sprouts up to 3 days in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator to maintain their texture and flavor. Additionally, you can cook the pasta and toss it with a splash of olive oil to prevent sticking, storing it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the roasted veggies and pasta in a skillet, adding the browned sausage and garlic butter sauce for a quick assembly. This way, you’ll enjoy a comforting dish with restaurant-quality results in no time!

Expert Tips for Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash

Roast Together: Save time by roasting the butternut squash and Brussels sprouts on the same baking sheet if space allows. This not only simplifies cleanup but allows flavors to meld.
Perfect Pasta: Cook the bow tie pasta just until al dente. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy when combined with the rich garlic butter sauce of your Autumn Sausage Pasta.
Garlic Care: Keep an eye on the garlic while sautéing. It can quickly go from fragrant to burnt; just a minute or two is usually all it needs.
Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the roasted vegetables and sausage ahead of time, storing them separately. This allows you to easily assemble quicker on busy weeknights.
Flexible Variations: Feel free to switch out the smoked sausage for vegetarian options or extra veggies. It’s an easy way to make your Autumn Sausage Pasta suit your dietary preferences!

Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash Variations

Feel free to customize your dish and explore exciting flavors with these variations!

Vegetarian Delight: Swap smoked sausage for hearty vegetarian crumbles or sautéed mushrooms and zucchini. You won’t miss the meat with these savory additions!
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or replace the sausage with hot sausage for a thrilling heat level. Just remember to taste as you go!
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta instead of bow tie pasta, ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy this comforting dish. Suitable for a variety of dietary needs!
Creamy Twist: Stir in some heavy cream or a plant-based cream alternative to make the sauce even richer and creamier. It transforms the entire dish into an indulgent experience.
Herb Garden: Experiment with different fresh herbs like sage or rosemary instead of thyme. Each herb will impart a unique flavor that brightens your dish!
Pasta Variety: Substitute bow tie pasta with fusilli or penne for a different texture. This small twist can offer a fun new twist on a familiar favorite.
Roasted Red Peppers: Toss in some roasted red peppers for sweetness and extra depth. Their vibrant color will also brighten your meal visually!
Nuts & Seeds: For a delightful crunch, sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds over your dish just before serving. They provide a satisfying contrast to the tender pasta.

Don’t forget, this dish shines when paired with a crisp green salad, or explore more comforting recipes like my Chicken Mozzarella Pasta or festive Sweet Sausage Muffins. Enjoy making it your own!

What to Serve With Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash

The perfect autumn meal is just around the corner, and it deserves some delightful companions to elevate the experience.

Crisp Green Salad: A refreshing side dressed with a zesty vinaigrette balances the rich flavors of the pasta, adding a touch of brightness.
Garlic Bread: This buttery, garlic-infused delight is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate; it’s a classic pairing that never disappoints.
Creamy Tomato Soup: A warm, comforting bowl of tomato soup offers a delightful contrast to the savory pasta, making it a cozy addition to your meal.
Roasted Artichokes: Their unique flavor and warm texture complement the smoky sausage and buttery sauce beautifully, creating a wonderful textural contrast.
Sautéed Spinach: Quickly sautéed with olive oil and garlic, this vibrant green side adds a healthy touch while enhancing the overall flavor of your dinner.
Chardonnay: A glass of crisp Chardonnay harmonizes with the dish’s richness, providing a refreshing contrast to the smoky notes in the sausage.
Apple Crisp: Finish off the meal with a warm apple crisp topped with vanilla ice cream; it’s the perfect sweet touch to an autumn feast.

Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash Recipe FAQs

How do I pick the right butternut squash?
Absolutely! Look for a butternut squash that feels heavy for its size and has a smooth, firm skin. Avoid any with dark spots or blemishes, as they indicate overripeness. A good squash should have a uniform beige color, which is a sign of proper ripeness.

How long can I store the Autumn Sausage Pasta?
Very! You can refrigerate your Autumn Sausage Pasta in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Just ensure it has cooled completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Can I freeze this pasta dish?
Definitely! To freeze, allow your Autumn Sausage Pasta to cool completely. Then, transfer it to an airtight, freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.

What should I do if my Brussels sprouts are bitter?
If your Brussels sprouts taste a bit bitter, it’s often due to overcooking or using overly mature sprouts. I recommend trimming away any tough outer leaves and giving them a good wash before roasting. Also, seasoning them with a bit of sugar alongside salt can help balance their flavor!

Can I modify this recipe for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! This Autumn Sausage Pasta can easily be adapted for vegetarian diets by substituting the smoked sausage with plant-based crumbles or extra vegetables, like mushrooms and zucchini. Just make sure if you’re using components like butter to swap it out with plant-based butter for a dairy-free twist.

How should I reheat leftover pasta?
To reheat your leftover Autumn Sausage Pasta, first, thaw if frozen. For best results, place it in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth and cover to steam it for a few minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help keep it moist and luscious, just like when you first made it!