Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash

Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash: Cozy Fall Comfort

  • Author: basmer
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash recipe is a comforting and flavorful fall dish. It features roasted butternut squash, spicy Italian sausage, and rigatoni pasta, all tossed in a creamy sauce with Parmesan cheese and fresh sage. It’s an easy-to-make meal perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, highlighting seasonal ingredients for a taste of autumn.

Ingredients

Scale
  • ½ butternut squash, peeled and diced (about 2 cups)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 8 ounces rigatoni pasta (or your favorite short pasta)
  • 8 ounces spicy Italian sausage, removed from casing
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • ½ small onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh sage (or ½ teaspoon dried)
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ¼ cup reserved pasta water
  • Optional: 2 tablespoons heavy cream for added richness

Instructions

  1. Roast the Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced butternut squash with olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Spread it on a baking sheet and roast for 25–30 minutes, or until soft and caramelized around the edges. Set aside.
  2. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni until just al dente, according to package instructions. Reserve ¼ cup of the pasta water before draining.
  3. Cook the Sausage: While the pasta cooks, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it up into small pieces. Remove from the pan and set aside.
  4. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add sliced onion and sauté until soft and lightly golden, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and chopped sage and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Combine Everything: Add the roasted butternut squash to the pan, gently mashing a few pieces to create a creamy texture. Add the cooked sausage, pasta, and reserved pasta water. Stir in the Parmesan and optional cream if using. Toss everything together over low heat until well combined and creamy. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
  6. Serve and Enjoy: Plate the pasta and top with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of sage if desired. Serve hot and enjoy a taste of fall in every bite.

Notes

  • Use pre-cut squash to save time.
  • Choose spicy or sweet Italian sausage based on your preference.
  • Keep pasta al dente to avoid it becoming mushy when combined.
  • Reserve pasta water; it helps create a smooth sauce.
  • Add cheese off the heat to prevent clumping.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Pasta, Fall Recipes
  • Method: Roasting, Sautéing, Boiling
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving

Keywords: Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash, sausage squash pasta, fall pasta recipe, butternut squash pasta, easy fall dinner, cozy pasta dish, seasonal pasta

Find it online: https://www.recipesmolly.com/autumn-sausage-pasta-squash/