As the leaves begin to turn and the air gets that crisp feel, I crave the warm hug of flavorful comfort food. That’s where my Cozy Butternut Squash Sausage Pasta comes in, perfect for those chilly fall evenings. This dish brings together creamy textures, a hint of spice from the sausage, and the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash, making it a delightful addition to any family meal. Not only is it incredibly easy to prepare, but it also serves as a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Ready to transform your dinner table into a cozy retreat? Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe! Why is this dish a fall favorite? Comforting and cozy, this Butternut Squash Sausage Pasta is the ultimate dish for crisp autumn evenings. Creamy textures blend beautifully with the hearty sausage and sweet squash, creating a meal everyone will love. Quick to prepare, it’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights, making it perfect for family gatherings. Flavor-packed yet uncomplicated, you can effortlessly swap in different greens or types of pasta based on your preference. And if you enjoy this savory goodness, don’t miss trying out my Garlic Parmesan Pasta next! Butternut Squash Sausage Pasta Ingredients For the Pasta • Rigatoni Pasta – Offers a sturdy base for the dish; you can use penne or ziti if you prefer something different. For the Sauté • Olive Oil – Used for sautéing the ingredients, lending a rich flavor to the dish. • Butternut Squash – Sweet and creamy, about 3 cups diced; substitute with pumpkin if you like. • Red Onion – Adds natural sweetness; yellow onion works as a good alternative. • Spicy Italian Sausage – Brings a delightful heat; feel free to swap for sweet Italian sausage for a milder flavor. For the Flavors • Garlic – Enhances the overall flavor profile; use 4 minced cloves for a robust base. • Swiss Chard – A nutritious addition with a pop of color; kale or spinach can be used instead. • Red Chili Flakes – Spice things up! Adjust the amount based on your heat preference. For the Sauce • Creme Fraiche – Provides creaminess, about ½ cup; sour cream mixed with lemon juice can be a substitute if needed. • Parmesan Cheese – Adds a delicious cheesy flavor; use ½ cup grated plus more for serving. Pecorino Romano is also a great option. • Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for enhancing the overall taste; season to your liking. This Butternut Squash Sausage Pasta recipe is sure to be a hit at your table, bringing cozy fall flavors in every bite! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cozy Butternut Squash Sausage Pasta Step 1: Cook Pasta Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Carefully add 1 pound of rigatoni pasta, cooking for about 10-12 minutes or until al dente. To keep the sauce silky smooth, reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta water before draining the pasta in a colander. Step 2: Sauté Vegetables In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 3 cups of diced butternut squash and 1 diced red onion, stirring occasionally for 8-10 minutes, until the squash is tender and the onions are translucent. This will create a sweet and savory base for your Cozy Butternut Squash Sausage Pasta. Step 3: Brown Sausage Push the sautéed vegetables to one side of the skillet. Add 1 pound of spicy Italian sausage to the cleared space, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and cooked through. The aroma will fill your kitchen and signal that it’s time to add more flavor! Step 4: Add Aromatics Incorporate 4 minced cloves of garlic into the skillet along with 1 bunch of chopped Swiss chard and ½ teaspoon of red chili flakes. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the garlic to become fragrant and the Swiss chard to wilt. This adds depth to your Cozy Butternut Squash Sausage Pasta. Step 5: Create Sauce Pour the reserved pasta water into the skillet, scraping any browned bits from the bottom. Mix in ½ cup of creme fraiche and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese until you achieve a creamy consistency. The sauce will begin to thicken, enveloping the veggies and sausage with rich flavor for your pasta dish. Step 6: Combine and Serve Toss the drained rigatoni into the skillet, carefully mixing it with the sauce until completely coated. Allow it to heat through for about 1-2 minutes. Serve hot, topped with additional grated Parmesan cheese for that extra touch of decadence. Enjoy the delightful flavors of your Cozy Butternut Squash Sausage Pasta! What to Serve with Cozy Butternut Squash Sausage Pasta Transform your dinner into a delightful feast with these comforting side dishes and drinks that easily complement the rich and creamy flavors of your pasta. Garlic Bread: Warm, toasty slices slathered in garlic butter provide a crunchy contrast, perfect for sopping up any creamy sauce. Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds brightness, balancing the dish’s richness beautifully. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The nuttiness of roasted Brussels sprouts brings an earthy dimension that pairs wonderfully with the sweet squash and spicy sausage. Crusty Bread: Serve with a warm baguette for a comforting, hearty side that invites family and friends to gather around the table. Apple Cider: This sweet and tangy drink echoes the fall season, making it an excellent partner for your cozy pasta while adding a refreshing touch. Pumpkin Spice Dessert: End your meal with a slice of pumpkin pie or a pumpkin spice latte, featuring fall flavors that resonate perfectly with the pasta dish. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta offers an alternative hearty base that mimics the dish’s comforting texture while providing a different taste experience. Chardonnay: A glass of chilled Chardonnay elevates the dinner with its fruity notes, enhancing the overall flavor harmony of the meal. Make Ahead Options Preparing your Cozy Butternut Squash Sausage Pasta in advance is a fantastic way to save time during busy weeknights! You can dice the butternut squash and red onion up to 24 hours ahead and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, feel free to cook the sausage and sauté the veggies a day in advance, simply store them in the fridge and reheat before tossing in the pasta. When you’re ready to serve, just cook the pasta and combine all the components as outlined. This method allows you to enjoy a heartwarming, creamy meal with minimal effort, just like it was made fresh that day. Butternut Squash Sausage Pasta Tweaks Feel free to make this dish your own with these delightful variations that invite creativity and personal touches! Gluten-Free: Substitute rigatoni with gluten-free pasta to enjoy this comfort food without the gluten. Vegetarian: Swap the sausage for lentils or sautéed mushrooms to keep it hearty yet meat-free. The earthy flavors will add depth without sacrificing satisfaction. Creamy Dream: Enhance the creaminess by adding a splash more creme fraiche or even a touch of heavy cream. You’ll love the luxurious texture! Extra Greens: Toss in a handful of spinach or kale for added nutrition and vibrant color. These greens will wilt perfectly while adding a lovely flavor boost. Nutty Flavor: Sprinkle in freshly toasted pine nuts or walnuts for an unexpected crunch. That bit of nuttiness will complement the sweetness of the squash beautifully. Spicy Kick: Amp up the heat by using hot Italian sausage or increasing the red chili flakes. Perfect for those who crave a bit of fire in their meals. Autumnal Twist: Incorporate roasted chestnuts for a seasonal twist that will deepen the dish’s comforting essence. You’ll relish the subtle sweetness and unique texture they bring. Herbaceous Freshness: Add fresh herbs like sage or thyme right at the end for a fresh burst of flavor. It’s a stunning way to celebrate the aromatic notes of fall! With these options, you can easily customize your Cozy Butternut Squash Sausage Pasta experience, and don’t forget to pair it with a crisp green salad and some cozy Garlic Butter Pasta! How to Store and Freeze Butternut Squash Sausage Pasta Fridge: Store leftover Butternut Squash Sausage Pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors fresh while maintaining the creamy texture. Freezer: Although not recommended, you can freeze the pasta for up to 2 months if absolutely necessary. However, note that creamy sauces may separate when thawed. Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of reserved pasta water or milk to restore creaminess. Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. Airtight Storage: Ensure your container is airtight to prevent any moisture loss, which can impact the overall texture and taste of your cozy pasta dish. Expert Tips for Butternut Squash Sausage Pasta • Pasta Timing: Ensure you cook the rigatoni just until al dente. Overcooked pasta can lead to a mushy texture that won’t hold up in this creamy dish. • Sauté Temperature: Keep your heat medium when sautéing the vegetables. Too high and they may burn before softening, impacting the flavor of your Butternut Squash Sausage Pasta. • Cheese Choice: For the best taste, opt for freshly grated Parmesan over pre-grated. Fresh cheese melts better and enhances the overall creaminess. • Season to Perfection: Always taste and adjust salt and pepper just before mixing in the pasta. The pasta absorbs flavors, so this is the key to a well-seasoned dish. • Creamy Sauce Tips: If your sauce seems too thick, gradually add more reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. The starchy water helps bind everything together. • Storing Leftovers: When storing, remember that creamy sauces can separate upon reheating. Reheat gently and add a splash of water or milk to restore creaminess. Butternut Squash Sausage Pasta Recipe FAQs How do I select ripe butternut squash? Absolutely! When choosing butternut squash, look for one that feels heavy for its size and has a tan, even color with minimal blemishes. Avoid any with dark spots or soft areas. A firm texture and a matte finish are key indicators of freshness. What’s the best way to store leftover pasta? Very! You can store leftover Butternut Squash Sausage Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools entirely before sealing the container. If reheating, add a splash of reserved pasta water or milk to help maintain creaminess. Can I freeze this pasta dish? While I usually recommend against freezing creamy dishes because the sauce can separate upon thawing, you can opt to freeze the Butternut Squash Sausage Pasta for up to 2 months if necessary. To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. What should I do if my sauce becomes too thick? If your sauce is too thick, don’t worry! Simply add a little more reserved pasta water gradually while stirring over low heat until you achieve your desired consistency. This technique not only helps restore creaminess but also ensures the flavors meld perfectly. Is this dish suitable for people with dietary restrictions? Certainly! To make the Butternut Squash Sausage Pasta gluten-free, simply substitute the rigatoni for a gluten-free pasta variant available on the market. For those with dairy allergies, consider using a dairy-free crème fraiche alternative to keep the creaminess while maintaining a safe dish for everyone at your table. How can I enhance the flavors further? Very! To deepen the flavors of your Butternut Squash Sausage Pasta, try roasting the butternut squash before adding it to the sauté pan. Toss the diced squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until fork-tender. This brings out the natural sweetness and adds an irresistible caramelized flavor to your dish. Cozy Butternut Squash Sausage Pasta for Fall Comfort This Cozy Butternut Squash Sausage Pasta is a comforting fall dish featuring creamy textures, hearty sausage, and sweet butternut squash. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 40 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 500 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta1 pound Rigatoni Pasta You can use penne or ziti if you prefer something different.For the Sauté2 tablespoons Olive Oil Used for sautéing the ingredients.3 cups Butternut Squash About 3 cups diced; substitute with pumpkin if you like.1 medium Red Onion Adds natural sweetness; yellow onion works as a good alternative.1 pound Spicy Italian Sausage Brings a delightful heat; feel free to swap for sweet Italian sausage for a milder flavor.For the Flavors4 cloves Garlic Minced for a robust base.1 bunch Swiss Chard A nutritious addition with a pop of color; kale or spinach can be used instead.0.5 teaspoon Red Chili Flakes Adjust the amount based on your heat preference.For the Sauce0.5 cup Creme Fraiche Provides creaminess; sour cream mixed with lemon juice can be a substitute if needed.0.5 cup Parmesan Cheese Grated, plus more for serving; Pecorino Romano is also a good option.Salt Essential for enhancing the overall taste.Black Pepper Essential for enhancing the overall taste. Equipment large potlarge skilletcolander Method Step-by-Step InstructionsBring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Carefully add 1 pound of rigatoni pasta, cooking for about 10-12 minutes or until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta water before draining the pasta in a colander.In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 3 cups of diced butternut squash and 1 diced red onion, stirring occasionally for 8-10 minutes, until the squash is tender and the onions are translucent.Push the sautéed vegetables to one side of the skillet. Add 1 pound of spicy Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until browned and cooked through.Incorporate 4 minced cloves of garlic, 1 bunch of chopped Swiss chard, and 0.5 teaspoon of red chili flakes. Stir together and cook for an additional 2 minutes.Pour the reserved pasta water into the skillet, scraping any browned bits. Mix in 0.5 cup of creme fraiche and 0.5 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until creamy.Toss the drained rigatoni into the skillet, mixing with the sauce until completely coated. Heat through for about 1-2 minutes, then serve hot, topped with additional grated Parmesan cheese. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 56gProtein: 20gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 5gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 1200IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg NotesEnsure you cook the rigatoni just until al dente. Overcooked pasta can lead to a mushy texture. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, and reheat gently with a splash of reserved pasta water to restore creaminess. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
