Autumn Dinner with Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts, and Butternut Squash

Autumn Dinner with Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts, and Butternut Squash is the perfect dish to embrace the cozy vibes of fall. This hearty meal combines roasted vegetables and savory sausage with pasta for a comforting dinner that works well for family gatherings or weeknight meals. The rich flavors of butternut squash and Brussels sprouts shine, making it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This dish comes together in just over an hour, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of garlic butter sauce and smoked sausage creates a delightful taste sensation.
• Seasonal Ingredients: Utilizing seasonal produce like butternut squash and Brussels sprouts adds freshness to your table.
• Versatile Options: Swap ingredients easily; use sweet potatoes instead of butternut squash or choose different types of sausage.
• Comforting and Satisfying: Each bite offers warmth and satisfaction, ideal for chilly autumn nights.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Autumn Dinner with Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts, and Butternut Squash smoothly, gather these essential tools before you start cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Large pot
• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Perfect for roasting vegetables evenly, helping them caramelize beautifully.
• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta; ensures even cooking without overcrowding.
• Skillet: Ideal for sautéing garlic and sausage, enhancing their flavors before mixing.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your delicious Autumn Dinner with Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts, and Butternut Squash:

For the Vegetables

• 3 cups butternut squash (peeled, seeded, cubed)
• 12 oz Brussels sprouts

For the Pasta

• 8 oz bow tie pasta

For the Sauce

• 5 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (to taste)
• fresh thyme (to taste)

For the Sausage

• 12 oz cooked smoked sausage (such as cajun sausage, andouille sausage, or smoked sausage)

Additional Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

How to Make Autumn Dinner with Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts, and Butternut Squash

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure an even roast on your vegetables.

Step 2: Roast the Vegetables

1. On a baking sheet, toss the butternut squash cubes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Add cleaned Brussels sprouts cut in half to the same sheet. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes until golden brown.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

1. While veggies are roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add 8 oz bow tie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain pasta but reserve about 1 cup of pasta water.

Step 4: Prepare the Sausage Mix

1. In a skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon olive oil.
2. Once hot, add sliced 12 oz smoked sausage and cook until browned.
3. Stir in minced garlic; cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

1. In the skillet with sausage mix, add roasted vegetables and cooked pasta.
2. Stir in butter along with reserved pasta water as needed to create a light sauce.
3. Season with smoked paprika, fresh thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.

Enjoy your Autumn Dinner with Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts, and Butternut Squash!

How to Serve Autumn Dinner with Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts, and Butternut Squash

Serving an Autumn Dinner with Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts, and Butternut Squash is a delightful experience. This dish is not only comforting but also versatile, allowing you to pair it with various accompaniments to enhance your meal.

Family Style

• Serve the dish in a large bowl at the center of the table. This encourages sharing and creates a cozy atmosphere for family gatherings.

Individual Plates

• Plate the pasta and sausage mixture in individual bowls. Garnish with fresh thyme for an appealing presentation.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair your meal with freshly baked crusty bread. It’s perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce and adds a nice texture contrast.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve the dish on a bed of fresh spinach or arugula. The greens add freshness and balance out the richness of the sausage and butter sauce.

Topped with Cheese

• Sprinkle grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese over the top before serving. It adds a savory flavor that complements the entire dish beautifully.

How to Perfect Autumn Dinner with Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts, and Butternut Squash

To ensure your Autumn Dinner with Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts, and Butternut Squash turns out perfectly, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh produce makes a significant difference in flavor. Look for firm Brussels sprouts and ripe butternut squash.

• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cook the bow tie pasta al dente. This prevents it from becoming mushy when mixed with other ingredients.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and paprika to match your personal preferences for spice.

• Roast Veggies Properly: Ensure your vegetables are well-coated in olive oil before roasting. This helps achieve that perfect caramelization.

• Add Herbs at the End: For maximum flavor, add fresh thyme just before serving. It gives a wonderful aroma without losing its potency during cooking.

• Make it Ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time. Just reheat gently on the stove before serving to save time during busy evenings.

Best Side Dishes for Autumn Dinner with Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts, and Butternut Squash

Complementing your Autumn Dinner with Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts, and Butternut Squash with side dishes can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting side that pairs wonderfully.

2. Roasted Root Vegetables: A mix of carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes roasted until golden adds sweetness and texture to your plate.

3. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing and croutons provides a refreshing contrast to the warm main dish.

4. Apple Cider Glazed Carrots: Sweet glazed carrots bring in seasonal flavors that complement the savory elements of your dinner.

5. Baked Macaroni and Cheese: This classic comfort food can be a rich addition to your autumn table if you’re looking for something indulgent.

6. Sautéed Green Beans Almondine: Quickly sautéed green beans tossed with toasted almonds add crunch and brightness alongside your main course.

7. Cornbread Muffins: These sweet muffins are not only delicious but also great for soaking up sauces from your main dish.

8. Pumpkin Soup: A warm bowl of creamy pumpkin soup can serve as both an appetizer or side dish that ties in perfectly with autumn flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Autumn Dinner with Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts, and Butternut Squash, it’s easy to overlook a few crucial details. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning each component can lead to bland flavors. Be sure to season the butternut squash and Brussels sprouts before roasting.

• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta for too long will make it mushy. Follow package instructions and aim for al dente for the best texture.

• Ignoring ingredient prep: Inadequate preparation of vegetables can result in uneven cooking. Ensure all veggies are cut evenly for consistent roasting.

• Not using fresh herbs: Substituting dried herbs for fresh can diminish flavor. Use fresh thyme for an aromatic boost that enhances the dish.

• Neglecting timing: Cooking everything at once may leave some ingredients undercooked. Roast the vegetables first to ensure they are perfectly tender before adding pasta and sausage.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3–4 days for best quality.

Freezing Autumn Dinner with Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts, and Butternut Squash

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Autumn Dinner with Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts, and Butternut Squash

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet while stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making an Autumn Dinner with Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts, and Butternut Squash:

Can I use different types of sausage?

Yes! Feel free to substitute with your favorite sausage type for varied flavors.

What can I serve with this Autumn Dinner?

Consider pairing it with a simple salad or crusty bread to complete the meal.

How do I customize the recipe?

Add other seasonal vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes for a twist on this comforting dish.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well and makes a great option for lunches throughout the week.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Replace sausage with plant-based alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth if needed.

Final Thoughts

This Autumn Dinner with Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts, and Butternut Squash is both satisfying and versatile. Its warm flavors make it perfect for cozy evenings during fall and winter. Customize it with your favorite seasonal veggies or proteins to match your taste preferences. Don’t hesitate to give it a try!