Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite

Name: Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed; 340 g Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved; 225 g bow tie pasta; 340 g cooked smoked sausage (chicken or turkey); 5 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons plant-based butter; Olive oil, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika

Published: October 18, 2025

by Amelia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
One-Skillet Wonder: Less cleanup with all ingredients cooked in a single skillet.
Bursting with Flavor: The combination of garlic, smoked paprika, and fresh thyme creates a rich taste experience.
Seasonal Ingredients: Utilizes autumn favorites like butternut squash and Brussels sprouts for a cozy feel.
Versatile Meal: Can easily be adapted with different sausages or veggies based on your preference.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing this dish requires minimal tools, ensuring a smooth cooking process. Having the right equipment makes all the difference in achieving delicious results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large skillet
Baking sheet
Pot for boiling pasta
Cutting board
Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

Large skillet: Ideal for cooking all ingredients evenly and efficiently, allowing for easy mixing.
Baking sheet: Perfect for roasting vegetables to achieve that caramelized flavor.
Pot for boiling pasta: Ensures your pasta is perfectly cooked to al dente texture every time.

Ingredients

For this delicious Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite, you will need:

For the Roasted Vegetables

3 cups butternut squash, peeled, seeded, cubed
1 tablespoon olive oil
salt and pepper to taste
340 g Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
2 tablespoons olive oil
salt and pepper to taste

For the Pasta and Sausage

225 g bow tie pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
340 g cooked smoked sausage (cajun, andouille, or regular smoked sausage)

For the Sauce

5 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons butter
salt and pepper to taste
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
fresh thyme leaves

How to Make Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 200°C.

Step 2: Roast the Butternut Squash

Toss cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Spread in a single layer on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet.
Roast for 15-20 minutes until tender.

Step 3: Roast the Brussels Sprouts

Trim and halve Brussels sprouts.
Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Spread in a single layer on another parchment paper-lined baking sheet.
Roast at 200°C for 20-30 minutes until browned.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook bow tie pasta according to package directions until al dente.
Drain pasta while reserving some cooking water.

Step 5: Sauté the Sausage

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Slice sausage into coins and cook until browned on both sides.
Remove sausage from skillet and set aside.

Step 6: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
Add butter and melt it down completely.

Step 7: Combine Everything

Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with garlic butter sauce.
Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
Gently mix in roasted butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, cooked sausage, and fresh thyme leaves until combined well.

Enjoy your comforting Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash as a delightful dinner option that embraces fall flavors!

How to Serve Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite

Serving your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash is all about enhancing its comforting flavors while keeping it simple. Here are some delicious ways to present this hearty dish.

With Fresh Herbs

Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.

Accompanied by Grated Cheese

Serve with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese for a rich, savory touch.

As a Standalone Dish

Enjoy it on its own as a filling meal that embodies the essence of fall.

Paired with Crusty Bread

Serve alongside warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce.

With a Side Salad

Pair with a light green salad dressed in vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta.

How to Perfect Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite

To make your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash even better, consider these helpful tips. Each step can enhance flavor and texture!

Use seasonal veggies – Incorporate other autumn vegetables like kale or spinach for added nutrition and color.
Adjust spice levels – Feel free to add more smoked paprika or red pepper flakes if you prefer a spicier dish.
Cook pasta al dente – Ensure your pasta remains slightly firm for the best texture in combination with the roasted veggies.
Try different sausages – Experiment with various types of smoked sausage for unique flavor profiles.
Make it creamy – Add a splash of cream or plant-based milk for a richer sauce if desired.
Store leftovers properly – Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Best Side Dishes for Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite

Complementing your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider:

Roasted Root Vegetables
A mix of carrots, potatoes, and turnips tossed in olive oil and herbs, roasted until tender and caramelized.
Garlic Bread
Slices of baguette brushed with garlic-infused olive oil, toasted until golden brown.
Steamed Green Beans
Crisp-tender green beans seasoned with lemon zest and sea salt for brightness.
Caesar Salad
Crisp romaine lettuce topped with croutons, shaved cheese, and creamy dressing for crunch and flavor.
Coleslaw
A tangy blend of shredded cabbage and carrots dressed in a light vinegar-based dressing for a refreshing crunch.
Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes made with plant-based butter or olive oil for a comforting side that pairs well.
Grilled Asparagus
Tender asparagus spears lightly seasoned and grilled until charred, adding an elegant touch to the meal.
Corn on the Cob
Sweet corn boiled or grilled and served simply with butter or seasoned salt, perfect for an autumn feast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing the Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can affect flavor and texture.

Ignoring the roasting time – Roasting butternut squash and Brussels sprouts for too long or too short can change their texture. Always keep an eye on them and adjust based on your oven’s performance.
Overcooking the pasta – Cooking pasta longer than recommended can lead to mushiness. Follow the package instructions closely for a perfect al dente bite.
Not seasoning properly – Undersalting can result in bland flavors. Taste as you go and adjust seasonings like salt, pepper, and smoked paprika to enhance the dish.
Skipping fresh herbs – Fresh thyme adds a bright flavor. Don’t skip it; dried herbs won’t provide the same aromatic quality.
Using cold sausage – Adding cold sausage straight from the fridge may prevent it from browning properly. Allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash in an airtight container.
Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite

Freeze in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
It can be stored for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite

Oven – Preheat to 175°C (350°F) and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 15-20 minutes.
Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat for 2-3 minutes or until warm, stirring halfway through.
Stovetop – Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth if needed, stirring occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding the Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite recipe.

Can I use different types of sausage?

Yes! Feel free to use chicken sausage or turkey sausage as alternatives to smoked sausage for a lighter dish.

What other vegetables can I add?

You can add vegetables like spinach or kale for added nutrients and color. Just toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

Substitute smoked sausage with plant-based sausage options or simply omit it altogether and add more veggies for flavor.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes! You can roast the vegetables and cook the pasta in advance. Combine everything right before serving to maintain freshness.

Final Thoughts

The Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Amazing 25-Min Fall Favorite is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with different proteins or vegetables based on your preference. This hearty meal is perfect for busy fall evenings when you crave comfort food without spending hours in the kitchen.

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