SAUSAGE PASTA SQUASH ULTIMATE RECIPE

I can almost smell the woodsmoke from Grandma’s old stove as I recall her effortlessly whipping up the most amazing meals, especially during the autumn harvest; she had a knack for coaxing out the best flavors, and I’ll never forget the way she combined simple ingredients to create dishes that warmed the soul. That’s where my love for hearty, comforting meals like Sausage Pasta Squash began, and I’m so excited to share with you this easy and delicious recipe that captures the essence of those cozy fall evenings. Get ready to create a flavorful and satisfying dish that will become a new family favorite!

Sausage Pasta Squash: Your New Weeknight Hero

Hey there, friend! Are you on the hunt for a dinner that’s both incredibly tasty and surprisingly simple to throw together? Well, look no further! This Sausage Pasta Squash recipe is your answer. It’s packed with flavor, utilizes seasonal ingredients, and comes together in a snap. I know you’re busy, and I promise this won’t keep you chained to the stove all evening.

I’ve been making this dish for years, tweaking and perfecting it until it’s just right. And now, I’m thrilled to share all my tips and tricks with you. We’re going to walk through each step together, so even if you’re a beginner cook, you’ll feel confident creating this masterpiece.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Okay, let’s be real. There are tons of pasta recipes out there. So, why should you choose this one? Here’s the deal:

• It’s packed with flavor: The combination of savory sausage, sweet squash, and flavorful herbs is simply irresistible.
• It’s easy to customize: Don’t like butternut squash? Swap it for acorn squash! Want to add some spice? Throw in a pinch of red pepper flakes! The possibilities are endless.
• It’s a one-pot wonder (almost!): Less dishes to wash? Yes, please!
• It’s perfect for fall: The warm, comforting flavors are ideal for those chilly autumn evenings.
• It’s a crowd-pleaser: Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this dish is sure to be a hit.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our supplies! Here’s everything you’ll need to make this amazing Sausage Pasta Squash:

• 1 pound Italian sausage: I prefer sweet Italian sausage, but you can use mild or hot, depending on your preference. Remove the sausage from its casings.
• 1 medium butternut squash: Peeled, seeded, and cubed. You can also buy pre-cut squash to save time.
• 1 pound pasta: Penne, rotini, or farfalle work well.
• 1 medium onion: Chopped.
• 2 cloves garlic: Minced.
• 4 cups chicken broth: Adds flavor and helps cook the pasta.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream: For extra richness (optional).
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: For serving.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried sage: Or 1 1/2 teaspoons fresh sage, chopped.
• Salt and pepper: To taste.
• Optional: Red pepper flakes, fresh parsley, grated nutmeg.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking! Here’s a detailed guide to making the perfect Sausage Pasta Squash:

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once the sausage is cooked, remove it from the pot and set it aside. Leave any rendered fat in the pot – it’ll add tons of flavor to the dish!

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic – burnt garlic is bitter garlic!

Step 3: Add the Squash and Broth

Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot and cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until it starts to soften slightly. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Make sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot – those are packed with flavor!

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Add the pasta to the pot and stir to combine. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and cook until the pasta is tender and the squash is soft, about 12-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot. If the broth is absorbed too quickly, add a little more water or broth to prevent the pasta from drying out.

Pro Tip: The exact cooking time will depend on the type of pasta you use. Check the package directions for the recommended cooking time and adjust accordingly.

Step 5: Add the Sausage and Cream

Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the cooked sausage and heavy cream (if using). Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and sage. If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Cook for another minute or two, until everything is heated through.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve the Sausage Pasta Squash immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley (if desired). Enjoy!

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Sausage Pasta Squash

Okay, now that you know the basics, let’s dive into some tips and tricks to help you take your Sausage Pasta Squash to the next level:

• Choose high-quality sausage: The sausage is a key ingredient in this dish, so don’t skimp on quality. Look for sausage made with natural ingredients and no artificial flavors.
• Roast the squash for extra flavor: Roasting the squash before adding it to the pasta will bring out its natural sweetness and add a depth of flavor. To roast the squash, toss it with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Nobody likes mushy pasta! Cook the pasta until it’s al dente – firm to the bite.
• Adjust the seasoning to your liking: Taste the dish as you go and adjust the seasoning as needed. Don’t be afraid to add a little extra salt, pepper, or herbs.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice: A little bit of acidity can brighten up the flavors of the dish.
• Make it ahead of time: This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Variations and Substitutions

Want to mix things up? Here are some fun variations and substitutions you can try:

• Use different vegetables: Instead of butternut squash, try using acorn squash, sweet potatoes, or pumpkin. You can also add other vegetables like spinach, kale, or mushrooms.
• Use different types of sausage: Try using chicken sausage, chorizo, or even plant-based sausage.
• Add some spice: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the dish a kick.
• Make it vegetarian: Omit the sausage and add extra vegetables. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Add some cheese: Stir in some mozzarella, provolone, or goat cheese for extra creaminess and flavor.
• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta.

Serving Suggestions

This Sausage Pasta Squash is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of side dishes:

• A simple salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette is the perfect complement to this hearty dish.
• Garlic bread: Because who doesn’t love garlic bread?
• Roasted vegetables: Roasted Brussels sprouts, broccoli, or carrots would be a delicious addition to this meal.
• A glass of wine: A crisp white wine or a light-bodied red wine would pair well with this dish.

Other Recipes You Might Enjoy

If you’re loving this Sausage Pasta Squash, here are a few other recipes you might enjoy:

• Sheet Pan Sausage Veggies: An easy and healthy weeknight meal.
• Cajun Honey Garlic Sausage & Rice: A flavorful and satisfying dish.
• Marry Me Chicken Pasta: An incredibly creamy and delicious pasta dish.
• Butternut Squash Soup: A warm and comforting soup that’s perfect for fall.
• Salmon Spinach Pasta: A healthy and flavorful pasta dish.
• Marry Me Chicken Pasta: A creamy decadent pasta dish that is sure to please!

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Here’s how to store and reheat them:

• Storing: Store the Sausage Pasta Squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the pasta in the microwave or on the stovetop. If reheating on the stovetop, add a little bit of broth or water to prevent the pasta from drying out.

Troubleshooting Tips

Sometimes, things don’t go exactly as planned in the kitchen. Here are a few common problems and how to fix them:

• Pasta is sticking to the bottom of the pot: Stir the pasta more frequently to prevent it from sticking. You can also add a little bit of olive oil to the pot.
• The sauce is too thick: Add a little bit of broth or water to thin it out.
• The sauce is too thin: Simmer the sauce for a few more minutes to thicken it up. You can also add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a tablespoon of cold water.
• The squash is not cooking evenly: Cut the squash into uniform pieces to ensure that it cooks evenly.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it! My ultimate recipe for Sausage Pasta Squash. I hope you enjoy making this dish as much as I do. It’s a delicious, comforting, and easy meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Remember, cooking should be fun and relaxing, so don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own.

Happy cooking, my friend!

Sausage Pasta Squash Ultimate Recipe

This Sausage Pasta Squash recipe is a flavorful and comforting dish perfect for fall evenings. It combines savory sausage, sweet squash, and your favorite pasta in a creamy and satisfying one-pot (almost!) meal that’s easy to customize.

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 6

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Italian-American

Calories: 600

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound Italian sausage, sweet, mild, or hot, casings removed
• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
• 1 pound pasta, penne, rotini, or farfalle
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream optional
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme, or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon dried sage, or 1 1/2 teaspoons fresh sage, chopped
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• Red pepper flakes optional
• Fresh parsley optional
• Grated nutmeg optional

Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• knife
• cutting board
• Spoon
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Colander (optional)

Method

 

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through (5-7 minutes). Remove from the pot and set aside, leaving rendered fat in the pot.
3. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened (about 5 minutes).
4. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 1 minute). Be careful not to burn the garlic.
5. Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot and cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until it starts to soften slightly.
6. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
7. Add the pasta to the pot and stir to combine.
8. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and cook until the pasta is tender and the squash is soft (about 12-15 minutes), stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add more water or broth if needed.
9. Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the cooked sausage and heavy cream (if using).
10. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and sage. Add red pepper flakes if desired.
11. Cook for another minute or two, until everything is heated through.
12. Serve immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley (if desired).

Notes

Choose high-quality sausage for the best flavor. Roasting the squash beforehand can enhance its sweetness. Don’t overcook the pasta. Adjust seasoning to taste. A squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the flavors. The dish can be made ahead of time and reheated. Use different vegetables like acorn squash, sweet potatoes, or pumpkin. Chicken sausage, chorizo, or plant-based sausage are great substitutes. Add some spice with red pepper flakes or hot sauce. For a vegetarian option, omit the sausage. Stir in mozzarella, provolone, or goat cheese for extra creaminess. Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding broth or water to prevent drying.