Autumn Dinner with Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts, and Butternut Squash

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that captures the essence of fall, then this Autumn Dinner with Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts, and Butternut Squash is just what you need! This recipe is a warm hug on a plate, filled with hearty flavors and vibrant colors. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, as it brings everyone together with its comforting aroma and delightful taste.

What makes this dish special is how simple it is to prepare while still feeling like a gourmet meal. The combination of roasted veggies and savory sausage over pasta creates a satisfying experience that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious meal on your table without any fuss.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the tasty flavors and colorful ingredients that make dinner fun!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep it in advance and simply bake when you’re ready to eat. Perfect for those busy evenings!
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap in seasonal veggies or different types of sausage to keep things exciting.
• Deliciously Comforting: The warmth of the garlic butter sauce combined with roasted veggies makes this dish feel like home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this recipe. You’ll appreciate how easy they are to find!

For the Roasted Veggies

• 3 cups butternut squash (peeled, seeded, cubed)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper

For the Brussels Sprouts

• 12 oz Brussels sprouts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper

For the Pasta and Sausage

• 8 oz bow tie pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 12 oz cooked smoked sausage (such as cajun sausage or andouille sausage)
• 5 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (to taste)
• Fresh thyme (to taste)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily adapt it based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use chicken sausage or plant-based sausage for a different flavor profile.
• Change up the veggies: Try sweet potatoes or carrots instead of butternut squash for a tasty twist.
• Add some greens: Toss in some spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for an extra nutritional boost.
• Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk for a richer sauce.

How to Make Autumn Dinner with Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts, and Butternut Squash

Step 1: Roast the Veggies

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the butternut squash cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness while adding depth to the flavor. Place them in the oven for about 20 minutes until they’re tender.

Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

While the squash roasts, trim and halve the Brussels sprouts. In a separate bowl, coat them with olive oil, salt, and pepper. After the butternut squash has been roasting for 20 minutes, add these sprouts to the same baking sheet. This allows all those lovely flavors to mingle as they roast together!

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add in your bow tie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Remember to reserve some pasta water before draining; it’s great for adjusting sauce consistency later!

Step 4: Sauté the Sausage and Garlic

In a large skillet over medium heat, add one tablespoon of olive oil and your sliced smoked sausage. Sauté until nicely browned—this adds so much flavor! Next, toss in minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!

Step 5: Combine Everything

Once your veggies are roasted to perfection, add them along with cooked pasta to the skillet with sausage. Stir in butter, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, fresh thyme, and a splash of reserved pasta water if needed. Mixing everything ensures every bite is packed with deliciousness!

Step 6: Serve Warm

Spoon generous portions onto plates or into bowls while it’s still warm. This Autumn Dinner with Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts, and Butternut Squash is best enjoyed fresh! Grab your fork—dinner is served!

Pro Tips for Making Autumn Dinner with Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts, and Butternut Squash

Creating this delicious autumn dish is a breeze with a few helpful tips to ensure everything turns out perfectly!

• Choose fresh vegetables: Using fresh Brussels sprouts and butternut squash enhances the flavor and texture of the dish, giving it that hearty fall vibe we all love.
• Don’t skip the roasting: Roasting the squash and Brussels sprouts caramelizes their natural sugars, resulting in a rich, nutty flavor that truly elevates your meal.
• Cook pasta al dente: Cooking your bow tie pasta just until it’s al dente ensures it retains a perfect bite and doesn’t become mushy when mixed with the other ingredients.
• Adjust seasonings to taste: Feel free to tweak the salt, pepper, and smoked paprika according to your preferences. This flexibility allows you to customize the dish to suit your family’s taste buds.
• Make it ahead: This recipe can be prepped in advance! Roast the veggies and cook the sausage ahead of time for an even quicker assembly during busy weeknights.

How to Serve Autumn Dinner with Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts, and Butternut Squash

Serving up this colorful autumn dinner is not only about taste but also presentation! With its vibrant colors and inviting aroma, you’ll want to showcase this dish beautifully on your table.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a pop of color while providing a fresh herbal note that brightens the dish.
• Grated Parmesan alternative: For a dairy-free option, consider using nutritional yeast or vegan cheese shavings. It gives that cheesy flavor without any animal products.

Side Dishes

• Mixed green salad: A light salad with seasonal greens, nuts, and a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the main dish while adding a refreshing crunch.
• Garlic bread: Warm garlic bread pairs perfectly with this meal. Its crispy exterior and soft interior make it ideal for scooping up any leftover sauce from your plate.
• Roasted root vegetables: Roasted carrots or sweet potatoes bring additional sweetness and earthiness to your table while maintaining that autumnal theme.
• Steamed green beans: Bright green beans are quick to prepare and add a lovely color contrast. Their crisp-tender texture offers a nice balance against the hearty pasta and sausage.

Enjoy putting together this flavorful autumn dinner that’s sure to warm both your heart and your home!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Autumn Dinner with Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts, and Butternut Squash is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing the container to maintain its texture.

Freezing

• For longer storage, you can freeze this dish.
• Place the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just be sure to label the container with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Microwave individual portions on high for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Alternatively, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat with a splash of vegetable broth or water to keep it from drying out.

FAQs

Got questions? Here are some common ones about making an Autumn Dinner with Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts, and Butternut Squash!

Can I use different types of sausage for this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with various cooked smoked sausages like chicken or turkey sausage. Each will bring its unique flavor to your Autumn Dinner.

How do I make my Autumn Dinner with Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts, and Butternut Squash even healthier?

You can increase the veggie content by adding more Brussels sprouts or incorporating other seasonal vegetables like carrots or kale. Opting for whole grain pasta is also a great way to boost fiber.

Can I customize this recipe for dietary restrictions?

Absolutely! This dish is versatile. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, replace the sausage with plant-based sausage or chickpeas and use vegan butter instead of regular butter.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Autumn Dinner with Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts, and Butternut Squash as much as I do! It’s a cozy dish that brings comfort and warmth during those chilly months. Whether it’s shared around a family table or enjoyed as a quick weeknight meal, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Don’t hesitate to try it out—you won’t regret it!