Irresistible Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage & Spinach

When you think of comfort food, Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach should be at the top of your list. Imagine twirling golden strands of pasta coated in a creamy, savory sauce that dances on your taste buds. sweet potato casserole The delightful sweetness of roasted butternut squash mingles with juicy sausage and vibrant spinach, creating a dish that not only fills your belly but also warms your heart. For more inspiration, check out this comforting chicken pasta recipe.

This recipe brings back memories of cozy fall evenings, where the air is crisp, and the aroma of garlic and herbs wafts through the kitchen. It’s perfect for gatherings with friends or a comforting solo dinner after a long week. hearty soup recipes pumpkin-based recipes for fall I promise that every bite will make you feel like you’re wrapped in a warm blanket!

I remember the first time I made this dish; my family couldn’t stop raving about it! They even asked for seconds—always a good sign!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Butternut Squash: Choose firm squash without blemishes. Roasting brings out its natural sweetness.

• Pasta: Any shape works well, but I recommend using fettuccine for its ability to hold the sauce.

• Italian Sausage: Use mild or spicy according to your preference; it adds hearty flavor to the dish.

• Fresh Spinach: Opt for vibrant green spinach leaves. They wilt beautifully and add nutritional value.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are essential for that aromatic foundation; they lend depth to your sauce.

• Heavy Cream: Provides creaminess to balance the sweetness of the squash; half-and-half can work too.

• Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a salty kick that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.

• Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor while roasting the squash and sautéing ingredients.

• Sage or Thyme: Fresh herbs elevate the taste, adding an aromatic touch that’s simply irresistible. banana bread for dessert.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Roast the Butternut Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel, seed, and cube the butternut squash into small pieces for even roasting. Toss cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper before spreading them on a baking sheet.

Cook the Pasta: While the squash roasts, bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add your pasta of choice and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve some pasta water before draining.

Sauté Sausage and Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté sliced sausage until browned. Toss in minced garlic and cook until fragrant—about 30 seconds.

Add Spinach and Cream**: Stir in fresh spinach until wilted. Pour in heavy cream slowly while mixing well; let it simmer gently until slightly thickened.

Combine Everything**: Add roasted butternut squash into the skillet along with drained pasta. Mix thoroughly while adding reserved pasta water if needed for consistency.

Finish with Cheese**: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over everything while stirring until melted into a creamy goodness that coats every bite.

You now have an incredible Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach ready to be devoured! Enjoy this warm bowl of comfort that brings joy with every forkful! For more inspiration, check out this cozy butternut squash dish recipe.

You Must Know

• This delightful Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a culinary hug in a bowl
• The creamy sauce and the savory sausage make every bite feel like a warm embrace
• Perfect for cozy nights or impressing guests, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing the sausage for maximum flavor, then cook the pasta while blending the butternut squash sauce. This sequence ensures everything is hot and ready to serve together.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap sausage for turkey or add nuts for crunch. A sprinkle of cheese or a drizzle of balsamic glaze can elevate your dish even further.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the sauce creamy.

Chef's Helpful Tips

• For perfect Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach, ensure your butternut squash is roasted until caramelized for depth of flavor
• Avoid overcooking the pasta; al dente is key for texture
• Don’t forget to taste as you go; seasoning makes all the difference!

Sometimes I whip up this dish when my friends come over, and they rave about it! One friend’s toddler even asked for more, which felt like winning a cooking award.

FAQ

Can I use frozen butternut squash?

Yes, frozen butternut squash works well; just be sure to thaw it before use.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Simply replace sausage with mushrooms or plant-based sausage for a delicious vegetarian option.

What other greens can I add to this dish?

Kale or Swiss chard can be excellent alternatives to spinach, adding unique flavors.

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Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach

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• Author: Mariska Dische
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in this comforting Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach, a delightful dish that melds the sweetness of roasted butternut squash with savory sausage and vibrant spinach. Creamy and satisfying, this pasta is perfect for cozy evenings or impressing guests at dinner parties. With its rich flavors and colorful presentation, every bite feels like a warm embrace!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 cups cubed)
• 8 oz fettuccine pasta
• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
• 4 cups fresh spinach
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp dried sage or thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel, seed, and cube the butternut squash. Toss cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast on a baking sheet for 25-30 minutes until tender.
2. Meanwhile, boil salted water in a large pot. Add fettuccine and cook until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.
3. In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and brown sliced sausage; add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
4. Stir in fresh spinach until wilted, then pour in heavy cream while mixing well. Let simmer until slightly thickened.
5. Add roasted squash and drained pasta to the skillet; mix thoroughly, adding reserved pasta water as needed for desired consistency.
6. Finish by stirring in grated Parmesan cheese until melted.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Roasting and sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 400g)
• Calories: 520
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Fat: 29g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 46g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 70mg