As the crisp autumn air settles in, my kitchen transforms into a cozy haven filled with the inviting aromas of the season. One of my go-to recipes that perfectly captures this time of year is Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash. This delightful dish combines roasted butternut squash, smokey sausage, and Brussels sprouts tossed together in a luscious garlic butter sauce. What I love most about this comforting, one-skillet meal is not just how quickly it comes together—ideal for those busy weeknights—but also how the ingredients can be easily adapted to fit your taste. Whether you’re in the mood for a meat-filled classic or a hearty vegetarian option, I promise this dish will warm your heart and home. So, are you ready to dive into a plateful of fall flavors? Why is This Pasta Recipe a Must-Try? Convenience: This one-skillet meal saves time on cleaning while delivering a delicious dinner in under an hour. Flavor explosion: The harmony of roasted butternut squash and smoked sausage creates a comforting dish that embraces the essence of autumn with every bite. Versatile: Whether you prefer traditional sausage or a vegetarian variation, this recipe easily accommodates different dietary preferences, ensuring everyone at your table feels included. Texture balance: Enjoy the creamy sweetness of roasted squash perfectly complemented by the crunch of Brussels sprouts, providing a satisfying mix that keeps you coming back for more. Crowd-pleaser: It’s an ideal choice for family gatherings or cozy dinners with friends. Pair it with a crisp green salad or serve it alongside a classic Garlic Parmesan Pasta for a complete meal that elevates your dining experience! Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash Ingredients For the Pasta Dish Butternut Squash – Provides sweetness and creaminess when roasted; can substitute with acorn squash or sweet potatoes for a different flavor. Olive Oil – Used for roasting vegetables and sautéing sausage and garlic; any neutral oil can work if you’re out of olive oil. Brussels Sprouts – Adds slight bitterness and texture; replace with other hearty greens like kale or broccoli for a tasty twist. Bow Tie Pasta – The hearty base of the dish; feel free to substitute with your favorite pasta shape for a personal touch. Smoked Sausage – Gives the dish its savory depth; options include andouille, cajun, or a vegetarian sausage for a meat-free version. Garlic – Introduces aromatic flavor; just be sure not to overcook to avoid bitterness. Butter – Adds richness to the sauce; can be replaced with vegan butter for a dairy-free option. Smoked Paprika – Enhances flavor with a smoky note; use regular paprika if you prefer a milder taste. Fresh Thyme – Offers freshness and herbal notes; feel free to use dried thyme, but adjust the quantity to taste. For Serving Grated Parmesan Cheese – A sprinkle of this adds richness to your final dish; omit for a vegan version or use nutritional yeast instead. Crusty Bread – Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce; it complements the dish beautifully. This Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash provides a delightful experience that celebrates the flavors of fall! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash Step 1: Preheat Your Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (400°F). This will ensure that your roasted butternut squash and Brussels sprouts cook evenly and develop that lovely caramelization. While the oven heats, prepare your vegetables by peeling and cubing the butternut squash into bite-sized pieces. Step 2: Roast the Butternut Squash In a mixing bowl, toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated. Spread the squash evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden and tender when pierced with a fork. This step sets the stage for your flavorful Autumn Sausage Pasta. Step 3: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts While the squash is roasting, prepare the Brussels sprouts by trimming the ends and slicing them in half. Toss the halved sprouts in olive oil, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl. After the butternut squash has roasted for 10 minutes, add the Brussels sprouts to the oven and roast them together for an additional 20-30 minutes, until they are tender and caramelized. Step 4: Cook the Pasta Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bow tie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, reserve about a cup of the pasta water for later and drain the pasta. This will ensure the perfect texture for your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash. Step 5: Brown the Sausage In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Slice your smoked sausage and add it to the skillet, browning it for about 5-7 minutes until nicely caramelized. This will infuse your dish with rich, savory flavors. Once browned, remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside. Step 6: Sauté Garlic and Add Butter In the same skillet, lower the heat slightly and add minced garlic. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, taking care not to let it burn. Add a generous pat of butter to the skillet, allowing it to melt and blend with the garlic, creating a luscious garlic butter sauce that will bring your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash together. Step 7: Combine Ingredients Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the garlic butter. Then, incorporate the roasted butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, and browned sausage into the pasta. Stir in fresh thyme and season with salt and pepper to taste, mixing everything until heated through and well combined. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency. Step 8: Serve and Enjoy Once everything is mixed thoroughly and warmed through, serve the Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash hot from the skillet. To elevate the dish, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired, and enjoy the comforting flavors of fall alongside a slice of crusty bread to soak up any delicious sauce. Expert Tips for Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash Perfectly Roast the Squash: Ensure your butternut squash is cut uniformly for even roasting. Watch closely to prevent overcooking or burning—it should be tender and slightly caramelized. Manage the Garlic: Sauté garlic just until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Burnt garlic can overshadow the dish, so keep a close eye on it while cooking. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook your bow tie pasta al dente as it will continue cooking when combined with other ingredients. This helps maintain perfect texture in your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash. Customize Your Greens: Feel free to swap Brussels sprouts with other hearty greens like kale or broccoli for variety. This keeps the dish exciting and tailored to your preferences. Store with Moisture: When saving leftovers, store pasta with added moisture—like a splash of water or broth. This prevents it from drying out when reheating. How to Store and Freeze Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash Fridge: Store cooked Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Ensure it cools completely before sealing to maintain freshness. Freezer: Freeze the pasta dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. It’s best to portion it out for easy reheating. Reheating: When ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist and flavorful. Meal Prep: This dish can also be prepped ahead of time—just store the ingredients separately until you’re ready to assemble and cook. Make Ahead Options These Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can roast the butternut squash and Brussels sprouts up to 3 days in advance, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Additionally, cook the bow tie pasta up to 24 hours ahead and toss it with a little olive oil before refrigerating to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat the sausage and garlic in a skillet, add your prepped vegetables and pasta, and stir everything together. With these prep steps, you’ll have a comforting meal ready to enjoy with minimal effort on busy weeknights! What to Serve with Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash Looking to complete your meal with delightful accompaniments that elevate your dining experience? Crisp Green Salad: A fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a bright contrast to the rich flavors of the pasta dish. The crunch of mixed greens refreshes the palate beautifully. Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky goodness of warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious garlic butter sauce. It’s a classic pairing that everyone loves! Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables enhances the autumn vibe and provides additional textures and flavors, complementing the dish’s heartiness. Creamy Tomato Soup: This comforting soup offers a lovely contrast to the earthy tones of the pasta, making it an ideal side for those chilly nights. Sauvignon Blanc: A chilled glass of this white wine brings a zesty and crisp note that balances the richness of the sausage and butter sauce beautifully. Chilled Cider: For a non-alcoholic option, a glass of spiced apple cider pairs wonderfully with the seasonal flavors, adding a warmth to your meal. Combining these sides with your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash will create a memorable dinner that your loved ones will cherish! Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash Variations Feel free to get creative with this Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash recipe and tailor it to your taste buds! Here are some delightful ideas to inspire you. Vegetarian Swap: Substitute smoked sausage with a hearty vegetarian sausage for a delicious meat-free option. This not only retains the flavor but also maintains the dish’s comforting heartiness. Different Squashes: Try using acorn squash or even a mix of seasonal vegetables like zucchini for a fresh twist. Each variety brings its own sweetness and texture, elevating your meal to new heights. Hearty Greens: Replace Brussels sprouts with kale or roasted broccoli for an added nutrient boost and flavor profile. The contrast in textures will keep your meal interesting and satisfying. Pasta Shapes: Feel free to switch out bow tie pasta for penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta. Each shape holds the sauce differently, offering a new twist on this cozy dish. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a little heat. The spicy notes will complement the sweetness of the roasted squash beautifully! Creamy Addition: Stir in a dollop of mascarpone or cream cheese just before serving for an extra creamy sauce. This adds richness and elevates the comfort food experience. Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, sage, or even basil to enhance the seasonal flavor profile. Each herb brings its own personality to the dish. Perfect Pairing: For a perfect side, serve with a refreshing Pesto Pasta Salad that contrasts the warmth of your pasta. It’s a delightful addition to any autumn gathering! Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash Recipe FAQs How do I select the best butternut squash? Absolutely! When selecting butternut squash, look for one that feels heavy for its size and has a smooth, matte skin. Avoid squash with dark spots or soft spots, as these can indicate overripeness. A firm, tan-hued squash is your best bet for sweetness and creaminess when roasted. What is the best way to store leftover Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash? To preserve your delicious meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Allow the pasta to cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness and flavor. This will help ensure you have a handy meal for those busy days ahead! Can I freeze Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash? Very! Freezing this dish is easy: let it cool entirely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, ensuring to leave a little space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat with a splash of water or broth to maintain the dish’s moisture. What if my pasta is dry after reheating? No worries! If your pasta seems dry after reheating, simply add a splash of water or broth while warming it up, either on the stovetop or in the microwave. Stirring continuously will help restore the creamy texture, making it just as delightful as the first time you served it! Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe? Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version of the Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash, substitute the smoked sausage with a delicious vegetarian sausage or your favorite meat alternative. You can enhance the flavors with additional roasted vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms, making it just as satisfying and comforting. What can I do if I can’t find fresh thyme? If fresh thyme is unavailable, don’t worry! You can substitute it with dried thyme, but remember to use less—about one-third of the amount called for in the recipe, as dried herbs are often more potent. You can always adjust to taste after mixing everything together to ensure the perfect herby flavor in your dish. Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Your Cozy One-Skillet Delight Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash is a flavorful one-skillet dish with roasted butternut squash, smoked sausage, and Brussels sprouts—a perfect fall recipe. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 45 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 550 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta Dish1 medium Butternut Squash Cubed2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can substitute with a neutral oil8 ounces Brussels Sprouts Trimmed and halved8 ounces Bow Tie Pasta Substitute with your favorite pasta shape12 ounces Smoked Sausage Options: andouille, cajun, or a vegetarian sausage3 cloves Garlic Minced4 tablespoons Butter Can use vegan butter for a dairy-free option1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Use regular paprika for milder taste1 tablespoon Fresh Thyme Or use dried thymeFor Serving1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Omit for vegan version1 loaf Crusty Bread For serving Equipment OvenskilletPotmixing bowlBaking sheet Method DirectionsPreheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Peel and cube the butternut squash into bite-sized pieces.In a mixing bowl, toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet and roast for 15-20 minutes.Prepare the Brussels sprouts by trimming the ends and slicing them in half. Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper. After 10 minutes of roasting the squash, add Brussels sprouts to the oven and roast for an additional 20-30 minutes.Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add bow tie pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining.In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Slice smoked sausage and brown in the skillet for 5-7 minutes.Lower heat and add minced garlic to the skillet, sautéing for 1-2 minutes. Add butter to create a garlic butter sauce.Add cooked pasta to the skillet, stirring to coat. Incorporate roasted butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, and browned sausage. Stir in fresh thyme and season with salt and pepper.Serve hot, sprinkled with grated Parmesan cheese, alongside crusty bread. Nutrition Serving: 1plateCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 25gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 8gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 12000IUVitamin C: 50mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 3mg NotesCustomize the dish with different greens or sausages to tailor it to your preferences. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
