Introduction

This Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines roasted butternut squash and Brussels sprouts with smoky sausage and tender bow tie pasta. It’s perfect for cozy dinners when you want something hearty yet packed with seasonal vegetables.

A bowl filled with three main layers is shown on a white marbled surface. At the bottom layer, there are small cubes of bright orange roasted butternut squash scattered throughout. On top of this, there are green, slightly charred Brussels sprouts, some cut in half to reveal their texture. The third layer is light yellow bowtie pasta, mixed closely with the vegetables. On top of these layers are browned, sliced sausage pieces with a crispy outer edge, adding a dark reddish-brown color contrast. The dish is sprinkled with herbs and black pepper, and a small sprig of green thyme rests on the top center. The bowl is white and deep, showing the vibrant mix of warm colors and textures. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3 cups butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
1 tablespoon olive oil (for butternut squash)
Salt and pepper to taste (for butternut squash)
340 g Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
2 tablespoons olive oil (for Brussels sprouts)
Salt and pepper to taste (for Brussels sprouts)
225 g bow tie pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil (for pasta dish)
340 g cooked smoked sausage (Cajun, andouille, or regular smoked sausage)
5 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons butter
Salt and pepper to taste (for pasta dish)
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
Fresh thyme leaves

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread it out in a single layer on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet and roast for 15-20 minutes until tender.
Step 2: Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread on another parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast for 20-30 minutes until crispy and caramelized.
Step 3: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving some pasta water for later.
Step 4: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Slice the smoked sausage into coins and cook until browned on both sides. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 5: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Add butter and let it melt completely. Then add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss well to coat it with the garlic butter sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
Step 6: Add the roasted butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, cooked sausage, and fresh thyme leaves to the skillet. Gently mix everything together until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving.

Tips & Variations

For a vegetarian version, substitute smoked sausage with sautéed mushrooms or plant-based sausage alternatives.
If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic.
Use fresh herbs like sage or rosemary in place of thyme for a different flavor profile.
Saving some pasta water can help loosen the sauce if it feels too thick.
Roast the vegetables on convection setting for extra crispiness if your oven has this option.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until heated through. You may want to add a splash of water or broth to keep the pasta moist.

How to Serve

The image shows a bowl filled with a colorful dish made of several layers. The bottom layer is yellow bowtie pasta, soft and slightly shiny. On top of the pasta, there are bright orange chunks of roasted squash and green roasted Brussels sprouts with slightly charred edges. Scattered among these are thick slices of browned sausage with a crispy outer layer and a reddish-brown color. The dish is sprinkled with small green herb leaves and fresh thyme sprigs, adding a touch of green contrast. The bowl is white, placed on a white marbled surface, creating a clean and fresh look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, feel free to swap bow tie pasta with penne, fusilli, or any short pasta you prefer. Cooking times may vary slightly, so follow the package instructions.

How do I know when the sausage is properly cooked?

Since the sausage is pre-cooked, you only need to brown it lightly in the skillet to enhance the flavor and warm it through. It should be golden and slightly crispy on both sides.