This yummy pasta dish mixes sweet butternut squash, flavorful sausage, and fresh spinach. It’s a fun and colorful way to enjoy a tasty dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butternut Squash: This sweet vegetable is the star of the dish. You could swap it with sweet potatoes or pumpkin if you can’t find squash. They offer a similar sweetness and texture!
Italian Sausage: I like to use mild sausage for balanced flavors. For a healthier option, turkey sausage works nicely too. If you prefer a meatless dish, try adding some extra mushrooms or a meat substitute.
Pasta: Bowtie pasta adds a fun shape, but any pasta works here! Fusilli or penne are great alternatives if you have them on hand. Just make sure they cook to al dente.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, substitute with half-and-half or even coconut milk if you want a dairy-free alternative. It will give a different flavor but still keeps it creamy!
How Do I Roast Butternut Squash Perfectly?
Roasting butternut squash brings out its natural sweetness. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for that nice caramelization.
- Cut the squash into 1/2-inch cubes for even cooking. Toss it in olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread it out on a baking sheet, avoiding crowding. This ensures each piece roasts evenly.
- Roast for 20-25 minutes, and remember to stir halfway for even browning.
This way, you’ll have perfectly roasted squash that enhances the dish’s flavor! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Easy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340 g) bowtie pasta (farfalle)
For the Butternut Squash:
- 1 small butternut squash, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes (about 3 cups)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for roasting)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Sausage and Sauce:
- 1 lb (450 g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pasta dish takes about 10-15 minutes of prep time and about 30 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll spend around 45 minutes preparing this nutritious meal that’s sure to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Roast the Butternut Squash:
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). In a mixing bowl, toss the diced butternut squash with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread the squash evenly on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, giving it a stir halfway through to ensure even cooking. You’re looking for it to be tender and slightly caramelized!
2. Cook the Pasta:
While the squash is roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, reserve 1 cup of pasta water for later and then drain the pasta. Set it aside.
3. Cook the Sausage:
In a large skillet, heat over medium heat and add the Italian sausage. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks until it’s browned and fully cooked, which should take about 7-8 minutes. If there’s excess fat, carefully drain it, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the skillet.
4. Sauté the Garlic:
Once the sausage is cooked, add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. This step adds a beautiful aroma to your dish!
5. Combine the Ingredients:
Add the roasted butternut squash and fresh spinach to the skillet. Stir well and cook until the spinach is wilted, which takes about 2 minutes. The colors and smells will be amazing!
6. Create the Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts and slightly thickens the sauce. If it seems too thick, loosen it with a bit of reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
7. Mix in the Pasta:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together gently until it’s well combined and heated through. Season your dish with additional salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the hot pasta in bowls or on plates, garnished with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy the creamy, comforting flavors of this delightful dish!
Bon appétit! This creamy pasta beautifully balances the sweetness of the butternut squash with the savory taste of sausage and fresh greens.
FAQ
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While bowtie pasta is a great choice, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, simply omit the Italian sausage and replace it with extra vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers. You could also use plant-based sausage for more flavor and texture without the meat!
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can roast the butternut squash and cook the sausage ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days, then assemble and heat when you’re ready to enjoy. Just be careful, as the pasta can become sticky if stored for long!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
