As the cooler nights of autumn roll in, there’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of a warm, hearty pasta dish. I recently found myself craving something that would not only satisfy my taste buds but also fill my kitchen with enchanting aromas. That’s when I came up with my Creamy Roasted Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach. The moment I pulled out the luscious butternut squash, I knew I was onto something special. The roasted sweetness of the squash, combined with savory sausage and vibrant spinach, creates a dish that’s bursting with flavors and colors.
This cozy recipe is straightforward enough for a weeknight meal yet impressive enough to serve at any gathering. Packed with nutrients and comfort, it’s perfect for those chilly evenings when all you want is a satisfying dinner that feels like a warm hug. So, grab your apron and let’s dive into making this delicious bowl of goodness—it might just become your new favorite!
Why is Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach a must-try?
Comforting: This dish perfectly captures the essence of autumn, offering a warm embrace of flavors to brighten chilly evenings.
Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with veggies like butternut squash and spinach, it’s a wholesome choice for family dinners.
Versatile: Easily adaptable for vegetarian diets, simply swap out the sausage for your favorite vegetables.
Quick and Easy: In just over an hour, you can whip up a delectable meal that’s sure to impress.
Crowd-Pleaser: The rich, creamy sauce combined with savory sausage creates an irresistible dish that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Don’t forget to explore more comforting pasta recipes on the blog!
Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta Ingredients
For the Pasta Dish
• Butternut Squash – Provides sweetness and creaminess; use fresh, peeled, and cubed or store-bought pre-cut squash.
• Olive Oil – Used for roasting squash and cooking sausage; a neutral oil can be a good substitute.
• Sausage (½ lb, crumbled) – Adds protein and savory flavor; you can swap it for ground turkey or vegetarian sausage for a lighter option.
• Garlic (4 cloves, minced) – Infuses the sauce with aromatic depth; garlic powder (1 teaspoon) can be used instead if needed.
• Spinach (6 oz) – Contributes leafy greens and nutrients; fresh is preferred but well-drained frozen can work too.
• Heavy Cream (1 cup) – Creates the creamy sauce base; alternatives include half-and-half or a plant-based cream.
• Parmesan Cheese (⅓ cup, shredded) – Adds richness and umami; for a vegan option, use nutritional yeast.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste preference.
• Farfalle Pasta (8 oz) – Provides structure to the dish; feel free to use other pasta shapes like penne or rotini.
Optional Topping
• Extra Parmesan – Sprinkle on top before serving for added flavor and a cheesy touch.
This delightful Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach will not only warm your evening but also fill your home with delightful aromas that will have everyone gathering around the table!
How to Make Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach
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Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F. This will ensure that the butternut squash roasts beautifully and caramelizes as it cooks.
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Prepare the squash: Toss the cubed butternut squash in olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated. Spread the mixture evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet for even roasting.
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Roast the squash: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for about 30 minutes. You’re looking for the squash to become tender and caramelized, with a lovely golden color.
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Cook the sausage: While the squash is roasting, heat a splash of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the crumbled sausage and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until it’s nicely browned. Set aside.
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Sauté the spinach and garlic: In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed, then toss in the minced garlic and spinach. Cook until the spinach wilts, which should take around 5-7 minutes.
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Create the creamy sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a light boil. Lower the heat and add the Parmesan cheese gradually, stirring until it melts into a creamy, smooth sauce.
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Cook the pasta: Meanwhile, prepare pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
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Combine everything: In the skillet with the creamy sauce, add the drained pasta, cooked sausage, and roasted butternut squash. Gently stir to combine, ensuring the pasta is well coated with the sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Optional: For extra flavor, drizzle some olive oil on top before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the dish cool before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: This creamy butternut squash pasta can be frozen for up to 2 months; however, the texture of the sauce may change upon reheating.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess if needed.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving this dish out for more than 2 hours at room temperature to ensure food safety.
What to Serve with Creamy Roasted Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach?
Looking to elevate your meal experience? Here are some delightful pairings that will complement your pasta dish perfectly.
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Garlic Bread: The crunchy, buttery goodness of garlic bread adds a comforting crunch, perfect for mopping up the creamy sauce.
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Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich, hearty pasta, bringing balance to your plate.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These caramelized veggies enhance the meal with their nutty flavor and crispy texture, adding a delightful pop.
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Crispy Fried Sage: A fragrant topping, crispy sage leaves add a delightful crunch and an earthy, herbal note that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
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Red Wine: A glass of Pinot Noir or a light-bodied red wine brings out the flavors of the sausage and sweet squash, creating a harmonious pairing.
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Apple Crisp: End on a sweet note with a warm apple crisp, providing a cozy dessert that echoes the comforting flavors of autumn.
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Parmesan Crisps: These crunchy bites can intensify the cheese flavor while providing a satisfying texture that will delight your guests.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Roasted Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach is a fantastic dish for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy quality home-cooked flavors even on your busiest nights! You can roast the butternut squash up to 2 days in advance; store it in an airtight container to maintain its sweetness and prevent browning. Similarly, you can cook the sausage and sauté the spinach, then refrigerate them for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat everything in a skillet over medium heat, add the cream and cheese, and cook the pasta to al dente. This way, you’ll have a luscious, hearty dinner with minimal last-minute effort!
Expert Tips for Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta
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Roasting Tip: Roast the butternut squash until caramelized for a deeper flavor. Check for tenderness; overcooking can result in mushiness.
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Pasta Perfection: Cook the pasta al dente to maintain a wonderful texture that holds up in the creamy sauce. Avoid overcooking!
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Substitutions: If using vegetarian sausage, ensure it’s cooked thoroughly for the best texture. You can also use zucchini or mushrooms for added veggies.
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Reheating: If the creamy sauce thickens upon refrigeration, simply reheat with a splash of milk for a smooth consistency.
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Add Some Spice: Consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or red pepper flakes to the creamy sauce for an exciting flavor twist.
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Storage Savvy: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This dish can also be frozen, but the texture of the cream sauce may differ when reheated.
Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach Variations
Feel free to make this beautiful dish your own by trying out these fun and tasty twists!
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Vegetarian: Omit the sausage and load up on your favorite vegetables, like mushrooms or bell peppers, for a hearty, plant-rich meal.
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Gluten-Free: Swap farfalle with gluten-free pasta, and feel confident that everyone can enjoy this comforting dish.
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Extra Creamy: For an indulgent experience, replace heavy cream with mascarpone cheese for an ultra-rich sauce that hugs every noodle.
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Spice it Up: Elevate the flavor profile with a dash of red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of nutmeg, adding warmth and depth to the creamy sauce.
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Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like sage or thyme towards the end of cooking to bring a vibrant touch of earthiness.
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Nutty Twist: Add toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a delightful crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.
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Sweet & Savory: Incorporate dried cranberries or chopped apples to balance the savory flavors, bringing a delightful pop of sweetness.
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Zesty Lemon: Finish the dish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a bright, citrusy note that enhances the overall richness.
Creamy Roasted Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right butternut squash?
Absolutely! Look for a butternut squash that is firm and heavy for its size, with smooth, tan skin. Avoid any squash with dark spots or softness, as this may indicate overripeness. Fresh squash should feel heavy and sound dense when thumped gently.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to let the dish cool before sealing to maintain its freshness and flavor.
Can I freeze Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta?
Of course! To freeze, allow the pasta to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore the creaminess of the sauce.
What if my cream sauce thickens after refrigeration?
No worries! If the sauce thickens, just reheat it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce back to a creamy consistency. This step will ensure your dish stays delicious!
Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! To make it vegetarian, simply omit the sausage and replace it with more vegetables, like mushrooms or bell peppers. For dairy-free options, use plant-based cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese. Always check for allergies, especially if serving guests.
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Very! If fresh spinach isn’t available, you can absolutely use frozen spinach. Ensure it’s well-drained before adding it to the dish as excess water can dilute the sauce’s richness. Just cook it until it’s heated through to maintain a vibrant, green color.
Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Toss cubed butternut squash in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Roast squash for about 30 minutes until tender and caramelized.
- While the squash is roasting, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the crumbled sausage and cook for about 10 minutes until browned.
- In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed, then toss in minced garlic and spinach. Cook until spinach wilts, about 5-7 minutes.
- Pour in heavy cream, bring to boil, lower heat, and add Parmesan cheese gradually, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Boil pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In the skillet, add drained pasta, cooked sausage, and roasted butternut squash. Stir gently to combine and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- For extra flavor, drizzle olive oil on top before serving.