Butternut squash pasta with sausage and spinach is like a warm hug on a plate. Imagine twirling creamy, golden strands adorned with savory sausage and vibrant greens, all mingling in perfect harmony. Perfect fall pumpkin oatmeal The aroma wafts through the kitchen, enticing everyone to gather around the table for a comforting meal that feels like home. For more inspiration, check out this crockpot butternut squash recipe recipe.
Every bite of this dish brings back memories of chilly evenings spent with loved ones laughing over hearty meals. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an intimate gathering with friends, this dish is sure to elevate any occasion. Anticipate amazing flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This dish combines rich, seasonal flavors that create a satisfying meal without fussing over complicated techniques
- Easy to prepare, it looks stunning and tastes even better
- A versatile recipe that can easily adapt to whatever ingredients you have on hand, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings
Sharing this recipe at a family gathering brought delighted cheers from everyone around the table.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Butternut Squash: Choose firm squash with smooth skin; it should feel heavy for its size.
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Pasta: Use your favorite type; I prefer penne or fettuccine for their sauce-hugging abilities.
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Sausage: Sweet Italian sausage adds great flavor; remove casings if using links. Delicious sweet potato casserole.
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Fresh Spinach: Look for bright green leaves; baby spinach works perfectly for its tenderness.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic is key; minced cloves will infuse the dish with irresistible aroma.
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Onion: A yellow onion offers sweetness as it caramelizes in the pan, enhancing overall flavor.
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Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil brings richness; use it generously to sauté the vegetables.
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Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese adds a nutty finish; always better than pre-grated varieties.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to balance all flavors; adjust based on personal taste preferences.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Prepare the Pasta: Begin by bringing salted water to boil in a large pot. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve about one cup of pasta water for later use.
Sauté the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and crumble in the sausage. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. The aroma will be heavenly!
Add Vegetables: Toss in chopped onions and minced garlic into the skillet with the sausage. Sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Cook the Butternut Squash: Stir in diced butternut squash along with salt and pepper. Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 10 minutes until tender, stirring occasionally and adding reserved pasta water if needed.
Toss Everything Together: Incorporate fresh spinach into the skillet, cooking until wilted. Add cooked pasta and toss everything together thoroughly, ensuring it’s well coated with flavor.
Add Cheese: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top while mixing gently until melted into creamy goodness. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary before serving.
And there you have it! Your homemade butternut squash pasta with sausage and spinach is ready to delight your taste buds! Enjoy each bite of this comforting dish loaded with flavor! Ultimate side dish of creamy mashed potatoes.
You Must Know
- Butternut squash pasta with sausage and spinach is a comforting dish that combines savory flavors with vibrant colors
- Its creamy texture will have you savoring each bite, and it’s perfect for impressing guests or simply indulging after a long day
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking the sausage until browned, then set it aside. Sauté onions and garlic before adding butternut squash and broth. Finally, mix in cooked pasta and spinach for a delightful finish. For more inspiration, check out this cajun chicken pasta recipe.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap sausage for turkey or mushrooms for a vegetarian option. Add crushed red pepper for heat or sprinkle fresh herbs like basil or parsley for freshness.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat to preserve the creamy texture without drying it out.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Make sure to cut the butternut squash into even pieces for uniform cooking
- Don’t rush the sautéing; allow flavors to meld beautifully
- Always taste before serving; you can adjust seasoning as needed!
Sharing this dish with friends at a cozy dinner party was unforgettable; their compliments made my night! Everyone loved how unique yet comforting it felt, sparking conversations about favorite family recipes. Comforting British meat pies.
FAQ
Can I use frozen butternut squash?
Absolutely! Just ensure it’s thawed and drained before using in your recipe.
Is this dish gluten-free?
You can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta alternatives available in stores.
What can I substitute for spinach?
Kale or Swiss chard works as great alternatives if you want to switch things up!
Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Butternut squash pasta with sausage and spinach is a heartwarming dish that beautifully combines creamy, golden pasta with savory sausage and fresh greens. Perfect for chilly evenings, this recipe brings comfort to the table and is sure to impress family and friends alike. Quick to prepare, it’s an ideal weeknight meal or a delightful addition to special gatherings. Indulge in the rich flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 cups diced)
- 8 oz penne or fettuccine pasta
- 1 lb sweet Italian sausage
- 4 cups fresh baby spinach
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta: Bring salted water to a boil in a large pot. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.
- Sauté the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Crumble in sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in onions and garlic; sauté until onions are translucent.
- Cook the Butternut Squash: Add diced butternut squash, salt, and pepper. Cover and cook for about 10 minutes until tender, adding reserved pasta water as needed.
- Toss Everything Together: Mix in spinach until wilted. Add cooked pasta, tossing to coat thoroughly.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle Parmesan over the top, mixing gently until melted.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 350g)
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
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