Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach
A comforting and creamy pasta dish combining roasted butternut squash, savory sausage, and fresh spinach, perfect for chilly evenings.
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta of choice Whole wheat penne recommended for extra nutty flavor.
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced Choose squash with smooth skin for ease of peeling.
- 2 pieces Italian sausages, removed from casings Sweet or spicy, your choice!
- 2 cups fresh spinach Baby spinach is tender and sweet.
- 1 cup heavy cream Provides creamy richness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic adds aroma.
- 2 tbsp olive oil Extra virgin for best flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste Always fresh.
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving A must for umami kick.
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the squash: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the diced butternut squash and sauté for about 10-12 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking.
- Brown the sausage: Push the squash to one side of the skillet. In the cleared space, add the sausage and minced garlic. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, breaking the sausage apart until browned and fully cooked through.
- Create the sauce: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and spinach. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the spinach has wilted and the cream has heated through.
- Mix it together: Add the drained pasta to your skillet and gently mix until the pasta is well-coated with the creamy sauce. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish and serve: Divide the pasta into bowls and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Add extra black pepper for the final touch.
Notes
For best results, use quality fresh ingredients. Let heavy cream sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before using for a creamier sauce.