Bacon Brussels Sprouts Butternut Squash Pasta

If you’re looking for a cozy dinner that brings the best of fall flavors to your table, you’re in for a treat with this Bacon Brussels Sprouts Butternut Squash Pasta! This dish is a warm hug on a plate, combining sweet roasted butternut squash and savory brussels sprouts with crispy bacon. It’s easy to whip up and perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings where everyone can dig into something delicious.

What makes this recipe so special is how it balances comfort and nourishment. The vibrant colors and rich flavors make it not just a meal, but an experience. Plus, it’s versatile enough to suit various palates—whether you’re feeding picky eaters or trying to impress guests!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With simple steps and minimal cleanup, this dish comes together quickly.
• Family-friendly: Kids love the combination of pasta and roasted veggies, making it great for family dinners.
• Delicious flavor: The mix of sweet squash, savory bacon, and zesty lemon creates a symphony of taste.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch ahead of time for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
• Seasonal ingredients: Enjoy the best of autumn produce with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some wholesome ingredients to create our tasty Bacon Brussels Sprouts Butternut Squash Pasta! These ingredients are not only simple but also packed with flavor:

For the Roasted Veggies

• 4 strips bacon, (chopped)
• 4 cups peeled butternut squash, (cut into 1 inch cubes)
• 2 cups halved brussels sprouts
• 1/2 diced shallots
• kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the Pasta

• 10 ounces pasta, (rigatoni, penne, or farfalle)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, (minced or grated)
• 1/4 – 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For Finishing Touches

• 1 lemon, (juiced)
• 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some ideas to customize it to your liking:

• Swap the protein: Use turkey bacon or chickpeas instead of traditional bacon for a different flavor profile.
• Add more greens: Toss in some spinach or kale towards the end for extra nutrients and color.
• Change up the cheese: Try feta or goat cheese in place of parmesan for a tangy twist.
• Make it vegan: Omit the bacon and cheese entirely and use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.

How to Make Bacon Brussels Sprouts Butternut Squash Pasta

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 425° F. This high heat will help caramelize the vegetables beautifully. Place your chopped bacon, butternut squash cubes, brussels sprouts, and shallots onto a rimmed baking sheet. Drizzle them with olive oil, season generously with salt and pepper, then toss them well. Making sure everything is coated allows each piece to roast evenly.

Step 2: Roast Away!

Roast the veggies in your preheated oven for about 10 minutes. After that time, take them out to give everything a good toss. Return them to roast for another 10-15 minutes until they’re tender and caramelized. The goal here is crispy bacon combined with perfectly roasted vegetables that bring out their natural sweetness.

Step 3: Cook Your Pasta

While your veggies are roasting away, cook your pasta according to package instructions in salted water. Remember to reserve about 1 cup of that starchy pasta water before draining! We’ll use it later for making our sauce creamy.

Step 4: Sauté Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes

In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in some olive oil. Add minced garlic along with red pepper flakes; sauté them for about 30 seconds until fragrant. This step infuses your dish with lovely garlicky goodness that enhances all those wonderful flavors coming together.

Step 5: Combine Everything Together

Now it’s time for all the components! Toss your cooked pasta into the skillet along with those delightful roasted veggies and crispy bacon. Add in parmesan cheese and fresh thyme leaves too. Squeeze in that fresh lemon juice; it brightens everything up! Mix well until all ingredients are combined.

Step 6: Create Your Sauce

Pour in half a cup of reserved pasta water into the pan—this helps create a light sauce that coats everything beautifully. Stir until you reach your desired consistency; add more water if needed. Don’t forget to taste as you go along! Adjust seasoning if necessary and top off with extra parmesan if you like!

And there you have it—a comforting bowl of Bacon Brussels Sprouts Butternut Squash Pasta ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips for Making Bacon Brussels Sprouts Butternut Squash Pasta

Cooking this delightful pasta dish is a breeze, especially with these handy tips to ensure you get the best flavor and texture!

• Choose fresh ingredients: Using fresh butternut squash and brussels sprouts enhances the overall taste of your dish. Fresh vegetables provide better texture and sweetness compared to frozen options.
• Perfectly roast your veggies: Make sure to spread the vegetables in a single layer on the baking sheet. This ensures even roasting, allowing for that lovely caramelization that adds depth to your dish.
• Reserve pasta water wisely: Always save some of the pasta cooking water, as it’s starchy and helps create a velvety sauce when combined with your other ingredients. Start with half a cup, adding more as needed to reach your desired consistency.
• Don’t skip the lemon juice: The acidity from fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors and balances the richness of the cheese and bacon. A little acidity can take your dish from good to great!
• Customize with herbs: Feel free to experiment with different herbs! While thyme adds a lovely earthiness, rosemary or sage can also complement the flavors beautifully.

How to Serve Bacon Brussels Sprouts Butternut Squash Pasta

Presentation matters, and serving this pasta dish in an appealing way can make it feel even more special. Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience!

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley or basil: A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds vibrant color and freshness that enhances both appearance and flavor.
• Extra parmesan cheese: A light dusting of extra parmesan right before serving brings an indulgent touch that cheese lovers will appreciate.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Perfectly toasted garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this pasta, providing a crunchy contrast while soaking up any delicious sauce left on your plate.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance to the richness of the pasta.
• Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: Complement your meal with additional roasted veggies like carrots or zucchini drizzled with olive oil. They echo the flavors in your pasta while adding variety.
• Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli contributes both color and crunch to your meal, making it feel complete without overwhelming the palate.

Now you’re all set for an irresistible dinner that combines comfort food with seasonal goodness! Enjoy every bite of this Bacon Brussels Sprouts Butternut Squash Pasta!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Bacon Brussels Sprouts Butternut Squash Pasta is perfect for meal prep! It keeps well in the refrigerator, allowing you to enjoy delicious meals throughout the week without the hassle of cooking every day.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pasta to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Remove as much air as possible from bags before sealing.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this delightful recipe:

Can I make Bacon Brussels Sprouts Butternut Squash Pasta vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the bacon and replace it with a plant-based alternative or extra vegetables for a delicious meatless version.

How can I customize my Bacon Brussels Sprouts Butternut Squash Pasta?

Feel free to add your favorite veggies such as spinach or kale, or try mixing in different cheeses like goat cheese or feta for added flavor!

What is the best way to store leftover Bacon Brussels Sprouts Butternut Squash Pasta?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Make sure it cools completely before refrigerating!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this recipe as delightful and comforting as I do! The combination of roasted butternut squash, brussels sprouts, and crispy bacon really brings out the flavors of fall. Enjoy making this dish, and don’t hesitate to share your experience with friends and family. Happy cooking!