This comforting and flavorful Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach combines tender roasted butternut squash, Italian sausage, and fresh spinach with your choice of pasta, creating a hearty and satisfying weeknight meal.
The main ingredients include peeled and cubed butternut squash, Italian sausage (pork or chicken), fresh spinach leaves, garlic, onion, olive oil, and pasta such as penne or rigatoni. This dish is perfect for fall dinners or any time you want a healthy, filling pasta meal with seasonal vegetables.
Vibrant Ingredients for a Cozy Dish
The combination of roasted butternut squash, Italian sausage, and fresh spinach creates a delightful harmony of flavors in this dish.
Butternut squash pasta is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of autumn’s bounty.
Each ingredient plays a vital role, from the sweetness of the roasted butternut squash to the savory notes of the Italian sausage.
Fresh spinach adds a pop of color and nutrition, making this a well-rounded choice for weeknight meals.
Preparation Steps to Perfection
To achieve the best results, start by roasting the butternut squash until it reaches a golden hue.
This step enhances its natural sweetness and adds depth to the dish.
While the squash is in the oven, cooking the Italian sausage until browned will infuse the dish with rich flavors.
Sautéing garlic and onion in the same pan allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a fragrant base for the pasta.
Mixing It All Together
Once the butternut squash is perfectly roasted and the sausage is cooked through, it’s time to combine these ingredients.
Add the fresh spinach to the skillet, allowing it to wilt slightly before mixing in the pasta.
This step ensures that every bite is packed with the vibrant flavors of butternut squash and sausage.
Seasoning with salt and pepper will enhance the overall taste, making it truly satisfying.
Serving Suggestions
To finish off this delightful dish, consider garnishing with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
This adds a creamy texture that complements the roasted butternut squash and savory sausage perfectly.
For those who enjoy a richer flavor, a light cream sauce can be drizzled over the top, elevating the dish further.
Serve it warm on a rustic wooden table to enhance the cozy autumnal feel.
Health Benefits of Butternut Squash and Spinach
Incorporating butternut squash and spinach into your meals offers numerous health benefits.
Butternut squash is rich in vitamins A and C, while spinach is packed with iron and antioxidants.
This dish not only satisfies the palate but also provides essential nutrients, making it a wholesome choice for any dinner table.
Why This Dish is Perfect for Weeknight Meals
With a total preparation and cooking time of just 45 minutes, this butternut squash sausage pasta is ideal for busy weeknights.
The straightforward steps allow for quick assembly, making it easy to whip up after a long day.
Plus, the combination of flavors and textures makes it a hit with both family and friends, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied.
Hearty Butternut Squash and Sausage Pasta Recipe
This recipe features roasted butternut squash tossed with Italian sausage and fresh spinach, all mixed with pasta for a delightful combination. The preparation involves roasting the squash until golden, cooking the sausage until browned, and sautéing garlic and onion for added depth. Finish with grated Parmesan or a light cream sauce for a rich, savory touch.
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 pound Italian sausage (pork or chicken), casings removed
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 12 ounces pasta (penne or rigatoni)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
- Light cream sauce for drizzling (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roast the Butternut Squash: Spread the cubed butternut squash on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 25-30 minutes until golden and tender.
- Cook the Pasta: While the squash is roasting, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the Italian sausage. Cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the sausage. Sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the roasted butternut squash and fresh spinach to the skillet. Stir until the spinach wilts and everything is well combined.
- Toss with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and top with grated Parmesan cheese or drizzle with a light cream sauce if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 480kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 55g