Description
This Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash is a creamy, savory delight that combines the rich flavors of Italian sausage with the sweetness of roasted butternut squash. The dish is finished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, creating a warm and comforting meal that is perfect for chilly evenings.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 12 oz. penne or rigatoni
- Butternut Squash: 1 medium, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
- Italian Sausage: 1 lb. (mild or spicy, based on preference)
- Onion: 1 medium, diced
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup, grated
- Olive Oil: 2 tbsp
- Fresh Sage: 1 tbsp, chopped
- Salt: to taste
- Pepper: to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss the diced butternut squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread it on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and caramelized.
- While the squash is roasting, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Add the Italian sausage to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Reduce the heat to low, then add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Fold in the roasted butternut squash and cooked pasta, mixing until everything is well combined. Stir in the fresh sage and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and sage if desired.
Notes
- This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream if the sauce thickens too much.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream.
- Feel free to use turkey sausage for a leaner option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: main-dish
- Method: baking and sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 6 grams
- Sodium: 800 milligrams
- Fat: 35 grams
- Saturated Fat: 18 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 60 grams
- Fiber: 4 grams
- Protein: 25 grams
- Cholesterol: 80 milligrams
Keywords: Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash, creamy pasta, butternut squash, Italian sausage, fall recipes, comfort food, easy dinner, one-pot meal, seasonal ingredients, pasta dishes, savory recipes, hearty meals, weeknight dinner