Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: A 25-Minute Fall Delight You’ll Crave

Name: Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 3 cups butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed (The sweeter the squash, the better!); 1 tablespoon olive oil, for roasting; Salt and pepper, to taste; 340 g Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved; 2 tablespoons olive oil, to roast the sprouts; 225 g bow tie pasta (You can choose any shape that you love!); 1 tablespoon olive oil, for sautéing; 340 g cooked smoked sausage (Choose cajun, andouille, or your favorite smoked sausage for added depth of flavor.); 5 cloves garlic, minced (You can never have too much garlic.); 2 tablespoons butter, room temperature; Salt and pepper, for the final touch; ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (This will elevate the dish.); Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish

As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, I can’t help but reminisce about those cozy autumn evenings spent in my kitchen. It’s the time of year when the scent of roasting butternut squash and sizzling sausage fills the house, wrapping everyone in a warm, comforting embrace. This is exactly why I’m thrilled to share my favorite dish—Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: a 25-Minute Fall Favorite that has quickly become a staple in our home.

What makes this dish so special? It’s a harmonious blend of flavors and textures; sweet butternut squash meets hearty smoked sausage, all tossed with bow tie pasta and vibrant Brussels sprouts. Plus, it comes together in just 25 minutes! When I first served it to my family, I was met with smiles and requests for seconds—a sure sign of success. It’s the perfect recipe for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings, allowing you to savor the season without spending hours in the kitchen.

Join me as I delve into what creates this unforgettable dish, and I promise you’ll walk away with the confidence to recreate this comforting meal that’ll fill your home with the essence of fall.

What Are Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: A 25-Minute Fall Delight?

Originating from the idea of incorporating seasonal harvests into a comforting meal, this recipe combines the earthy sweetness of roasted butternut squash with the smoky richness of cooked sausage. The bow tie pasta serves as a playful backdrop, while Brussels sprouts add a beautiful crunch and a pop of color.

Each bite is a dance of flavors—the sweetness of the squash perfectly balances the savory umami notes from the sausage, while fresh thyme imparts a fragrant herbal touch that ties the dish together. This recipe is uniquely special because it captures the essence of autumn in one bowl, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings or quiet autumn nights at home. Whether you’re craving comfort food or looking to impress, this dish is sure to please!

When to Make It

Make this recipe on busy weeknights when you still want a wholesome meal, or save it for special occasions like Friendsgiving. It’s versatile enough to work for any fall-themed dinner!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: In just 25 minutes, you can have a gourmet-quality meal on the table! Compared to store-bought or restaurant versions that often take longer to prepare and serve, this recipe saves time without sacrificing flavor.
Budget-Friendly: Using seasonal ingredients like butternut squash and Brussels sprouts means this dish is both economical and delicious. Plus, you’re likely to find many of these in your pantry already!
Customizable: Not everyone in the family is a fan of sausage? No problem! You can easily swap it for chicken, turkey, or even a plant-based alternative. The same goes for the veggies—feel free to mix in your favorites or whatever you have on hand.
Satisfying Comfort: Nothing beats a hearty dish as the weather cools down. The textures from the roasted squash, tender pasta, and crispy Brussels sprouts create a delightful mouthfeel that keeps you coming back for more.
Low-Fuss Cleanup: With minimal pots and pans required, you’ll be glad the cleanup is as quick as the prep! This recipe is perfect for easy weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this culinary delight:

3 cups butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed (the sweeter the squash, the better!)
1 tablespoon olive oil, for roasting
Salt and pepper, to taste
340 g Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
2 tablespoons olive oil, to roast the sprouts
225 g bow tie pasta – you can choose any shape that you love!
1 tablespoon olive oil, for sautéing
340 g cooked smoked sausage (choose cajun, andouille, or your favorite smoked sausage for added depth of flavor)
5 cloves garlic, minced (you can never have too much garlic)
2 tablespoons butter, room temperature
Salt and pepper, for the final touch
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (this will elevate the dish)
Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish

Ingredient Quality & Substitutions:

Butternut Squash: Fresh is best, but frozen can work in a pinch.
Sausage: For a lighter option, use chicken sausage; for a vegetarian alternative, try diced mushrooms or lentils.
Pasta: Feel free to experiment with gluten-free pasta or whole grain varieties.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Roast

Preheat your oven to 200°C (about 400°F). Toss the cubed butternut squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them in a single layer on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until tender and caramelized—there’s nothing like that golden-brown flavor!

2. Brussels Sprouts

Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts. Toss with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them in a single layer on another parchment paper-lined baking sheet and roast at 200°C for 20-30 minutes, until crispy and golden. Keep an eye on them around the 15-minute mark, as ovens can vary!

3. Cook the Pasta

While the veggies roast, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bow tie pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving a cup of pasta water to adjust the sauce if needed.

4. Sausage Sizzle

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Slice the smoked sausage into coins, then add to the skillet. Cook until brown and crispy, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and let it rest on a plate, covering it so it stays warm.

5. Flavor Town

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add 2 tablespoons of butter and let it melt, then toss in the cooked pasta. Season with salt, pepper, and ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika for that perfect touch!

6. Combine Everything

Gently add the roasted butternut squash, crispy Brussels sprouts, cooked sausage, and fresh thyme to the skillet. Mix everything until it’s well combined and adjust seasoning as needed.

Chef’s Tips:

Visual Clue: When your butternut squash is done, it should have a fork-tender texture and a lovely golden color. Check at around 15 minutes.
Common Mistake: Don’t overcrowd the baking sheets for the squash and sprouts—this ensures they roast instead of steam!

Expert Tips & Tricks

Storage: Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen up the dish.
Make-Ahead Instructions: You can roast the veggies a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Just sauté and combine with the pasta when ready to serve.
Troubleshooting: If your pasta seems too dry, add a little reserved pasta water at a time until you achieve your desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions

For the perfect fall dinner, serve this dish with a simple side salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the sausage and butter. A slice of crusty bread or homemade garlic knots would be a wonderful addition, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.

Occasion recommendations:

Cozy family dinners
Upscale fall gatherings
Friendsgiving celebrations

Variations & Substitutions

Flavor Combinations: Feel free to play with spices! Add a dash of chili flakes for some heat, or swap in Italian sausage for a different twist.

Dietary Restrictions: For gluten-free options, swap regular pasta for a gluten-free variety. To make it vegetarian, omit the sausage and double the veggies—mushrooms work wonderfully here!

Seasonal Variations: You can easily swap out Brussels sprouts for seasonal greens or even roasted carrots for a different flavor profile.

Nutrition & Storage Info

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Total Time: 25-30 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Estimated Calories per Serving: ~400 calories
Storage Instructions:
- Room Temp: Not recommended
- Fridge: Up to 3 days
- Freezer: Not recommended for best quality; can be assembled but flavors may alter when frozen.

FAQ Section

Can I use frozen butternut squash?
Yes, frozen butternut squash works well! Just adjust roasting time according to package instructions.
What can I substitute for bow tie pasta?
Any shape works! Penne, fusilli, or even zucchini noodles will be great alternatives.
Can this recipe be made ahead?
Definitely! Prep the ingredients earlier in the day to save time.
Is this dish vegetarian-friendly?
Easily! Replace the smoked sausage with mushrooms or further assorted veggies.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when cooking the sausage!
What’s the best way to ensure crispy Brussels sprouts?
Make sure they are spread out on the baking sheet and not overcrowded.
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! Chicken or turkey sausage are excellent options, as is a plant-based sausage.
How do I know when the butternut squash is done?
It should be fork-tender and have a touch of caramelization on the edges.
What type of thyme should I use?
Fresh thyme is best for a brighter flavor, but you can substitute dried thyme if that’s what you have.
Can leftovers be reheated?
Yes! Gently reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of pasta water if it seems dry.

Conclusion

The Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash dish is so much more than a meal; it’s a warm hug on a chilly evening, a reminder of family gatherings, and a celebration of fall’s wonderful bounty. I hope you take the plunge and try this delightful recipe. Your loved ones will thank you as they gather around the table to savor every bite!

I’d love to hear your thoughts after you give it a try—did you customize it? Did your family love it as much as mine? Don’t forget to check out a few of my other fall-inspired recipes on the blog that would pair beautifully with this dish! Happy cooking!