If you are craving a dish that perfectly captures the cozy flavors of the season, this Autumn Beef Sausage Pasta with Roasted Butternut Squash Recipe is your new go-to comfort meal. With tender cubes of roasted butternut squash, caramelized Brussels sprouts, smoky beef sausage, and al dente bow tie pasta all tossed in a buttery, garlicky blend, every bite delivers warmth and heartiness that feels like a hug on a plate. It’s a stunning celebration of fall ingredients that’s as delicious as it is satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is the secret to making this dish stand out. Each element contributes a unique flavor or texture, building layers of taste that make the Autumn Beef Sausage Pasta with Roasted Butternut Squash Recipe so irresistible.
- 3 cups butternut squash, peeled, seeded, cubed: Provides sweet, creamy chunks that roast beautifully for rich flavor.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Helps roast the squash while adding a subtle fruity undertone.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the ingredients.
- 340 g Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved: Adds a slightly nutty crunch with a roasted, caramelized edge.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: For perfectly crisping the Brussels sprouts in the oven.
- 225 g bow tie pasta: A fun, sturdy pasta shape that holds sauce well and brings great texture.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Used to sauté the sausage and aromatics, creating a flavorful base.
- 340 g cooked smoked beef sausage: The star protein adding smoky depth and savory richness.
- 5 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a punch of fragrant, savory warmth.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter: Melts in for a luscious, velvety finish that ties everything together.
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika: Lends a mild smoky spice echoing the sausage’s flavor.
- Fresh thyme leaves: Adds a fresh, herbal note that brightens the entire dish.
How to Make Autumn Beef Sausage Pasta with Roasted Butternut Squash Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Roast Vegetables
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper, making sure each piece is nicely coated to caramelize in the oven. In a separate bowl, do the same for the halved Brussels sprouts but with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Spread the vegetables out on baking sheets and roast them for about 20 to 30 minutes until they are tender and beautifully caramelized. This roasting step is crucial because it draws out the natural sweetness and adds that slightly crispy edge that makes the dish so delightful.
Step 2: Cook Pasta
While your veggies are roasting, bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a boil, then add the bow tie pasta. Cook until al dente, which usually takes a few minutes less than the package directs for perfect bite and texture. Be sure to reserve about half a cup of the starchy pasta water before draining. This magical liquid will help bind everything together in the final step. Once drained, set the pasta aside while you move on to the sausage.
Step 3: Cook Beef Sausage and Aromatics
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cooked smoked beef sausage, breaking it into small pieces as it browns. This takes around 8 to 10 minutes and allows the meat to develop a gorgeous, savory crust. If there’s excess fat rendered in the pan, drain it so the dish doesn’t get greasy. Then toss in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, and fresh thyme leaves. Cook these aromatics just until fragrant, about 1 to 2 minutes, taking care not to burn the garlic. This step infuses the dish with a wonderful smoky and herbal essence that complements the roasted vegetables perfectly.
Step 4: Combine and Finish
Time to bring all the flavors together. Add the roasted butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, and drained pasta straight into the skillet with the sausage mixture. Stir in 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, allowing it to melt and coat everything with a rich, silky sheen. Gently toss the ingredients, ensuring each bite is loaded with a balance of smoky sausage, sweet squash, and crisp sprouts. If it feels a bit dry, splash in some reserved pasta water incrementally until you reach the perfect consistency. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as necessary for that perfect seasoning.
Step 5: Serve
Serve generous portions immediately while it’s warm and fragrant, garnished with extra fresh thyme leaves for a burst of color and fresh aroma. This final touch not only looks beautiful but also adds a subtle brightness that elevates the whole dish.
How to Serve Autumn Beef Sausage Pasta with Roasted Butternut Squash Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a handful of toasted pine nuts can add an unexpected crunchy or cheesy dimension. Fresh thyme or even chopped parsley works beautifully to add a pop of green and a fresh herbal note that contrasts nicely with the rich flavors.
Side Dishes
This autumn-inspired pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Crusty garlic bread or a warm sourdough baguette is also perfect for mopping up any buttery, flavorful sauce left on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy dinner party, serve this pasta family-style in a large, rustic bowl surrounded by small plates of toppings such as chili flakes, lemon zest, or extra butter pats. Alternatively, arrange individual portions in shallow bowls topped with fresh thyme sprigs and delicate shavings of aged cheese for an elegant touch that still feels warm and inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow any leftover Autumn Beef Sausage Pasta with Roasted Butternut Squash Recipe to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh for up to 3 days, maintaining the rich flavors and textures if properly sealed.
Freezing
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. Use a freezer-safe container and leave a little room for expansion. To preserve texture, avoid adding fresh herbs before freezing; instead, add them fresh when reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave with a splash of water or broth to restore moisture. Stir frequently to ensure even warming and to keep the pasta from drying out. Fresh herbs can be added after reheating to revive the dish’s vibrant flavors.
FAQs
Can I use a different sausage for this recipe?
Absolutely! While smoked beef sausage gives a fantastic depth of flavor, Italian sausage or chorizo would also work wonderfully, bringing their own unique spice and character to the dish.
Is butternut squash necessary, or can I substitute?
Butternut squash is ideal for its sweetness and texture, but you can swap in sweet potatoes or pumpkin cubes if you prefer. Just make sure to roast until tender and caramelized for the best flavor.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To keep the essence of this recipe but vegetarian, try substituting the sausage with plant-based sausage alternatives or sautéed mushrooms seasoned with smoked paprika and thyme to mimic that smoky richness.
What pasta shapes work best?
Bow tie pasta is great because it holds sauce and bits of sausage well, but penne, rigatoni, or farfalle will work just as beautifully to catch all those flavors perfectly.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time for a dinner party?
You can roast the vegetables and cook the pasta a few hours ahead and keep them refrigerated separately. Combine with the sausage mixture shortly before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant.
Final Thoughts
This Autumn Beef Sausage Pasta with Roasted Butternut Squash Recipe is the kind of meal that feels both special and approachable. It’s packed with seasonal flavors that celebrate the best of fall, perfect for family dinners or sharing with friends on a chilly evening. I encourage you to dive in, experiment with your own twists, and savor every comforting bite!
Print
Autumn Beef Sausage Pasta with Roasted Butternut Squash Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and flavorful Autumn Beef Sausage Pasta featuring roasted butternut squash and Brussels sprouts, tossed with smoky beef sausage, garlic, and fresh thyme. This comforting dish balances savory sausage with sweet roasted vegetables, perfect for a cozy fall meal.
Ingredients
Roasted Vegetables
- 3 cups butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 340 g Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pasta and Sausage
- 225 g bow tie pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 340 g cooked smoked beef sausage
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika
- Fresh thyme leaves
Instructions
- Prep and Roast Vegetables: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the butternut squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. In a separate bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread both vegetables out on baking sheets and roast them for 20 to 30 minutes until they are tender and lightly caramelized.
- Cook Pasta: While the vegetables roast, bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a boil. Add 225 grams of bow tie pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Before draining, reserve about half a cup of the starchy pasta water. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Cook Beef Sausage and Aromatics: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cooked smoked beef sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook for 8 to 10 minutes until browned. Drain any excess fat from the skillet. Add the minced garlic, smoked paprika, and fresh thyme leaves, cooking for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant, being cautious not to burn the garlic.
- Combine and Finish: Add the roasted butternut squash, roasted Brussels sprouts, and the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sausage mixture. Stir in 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and gently toss everything together to combine well. If the dish feels dry, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it. Finally, taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Serve generous portions immediately, garnished with extra fresh thyme leaves for enhanced freshness and aroma.
Notes
- Be sure not to overcook the garlic to avoid bitterness.
- You can substitute bow tie pasta with any other short pasta like penne or rotini.
- For a spicier twist, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the sausage.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.
