Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash | Easy Dinner Idea

There’s nothing quite like a bowl of Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash to usher in the cozy vibes of fall. This hearty pasta dish brings together the sweetness of roasted butternut squash, the caramelized crunch of Brussels sprouts, and the savory bite of smoked sausage, all tossed with bow tie pasta in a velvety garlic butter sauce. Every bite feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening — rich, golden, and perfectly comforting.

Whether you’re looking for an easy fall sausage pasta to whip up on a busy weeknight or a dish that impresses at casual autumn gatherings, this recipe delivers. It’s the perfect blend of butternut squash pasta with sausage, flavor-forward roasted vegetable pasta, and that unmistakable satisfaction you get from a classic comfort food pasta.

Growing up, Sunday dinners in my house always meant something warm bubbling on the stove — and this cozy autumn dinner idea instantly brings back those memories. It’s rustic, fast, and indulgent in all the right ways.

Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to pin it, share it, or save it for your next fall dinner night.

What Makes This So Irresistible

• 🍝 Hearty but not heavy – Balanced with veggies, sausage, and pasta
• 🧄 Garlic butter magic – Brings it all together in a savory, velvety sauce
• 🎃 Seasonal ingredients – Butternut squash and Brussels sprouts are fall staples
• 🕒 Quick and easy – Only 25 minutes start to finish
• 🔄 Flexible – Works with any smoked sausage and pasta you have on hand
• 🍽️ Perfect for gatherings – A crowd-pleasing cozy autumn dinner idea
• 🥄 One skillet + one pot – Easy cleanup!
• ✅ Meal-prep friendly – Keeps well and tastes even better the next day

Ingredients for Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash

🔸 Roasted Veggies

• 3 cups butternut squash, peeled, seeded, cubed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 340 g (12 oz) Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

🔸 Pasta & Sausage

• 225 g (8 oz) bow tie pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 340 g (12 oz) cooked smoked sausage (Cajun, andouille, or regular), sliced into coins

🔸 Garlic Butter Sauce

• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish

Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta.
Vegetarian Swap: Use plant-based sausage or chickpeas for protein.
Dairy-Free Option: Swap butter for olive oil or plant-based butter.

Optional Homemade Garlic Butter Sauce

If you want an extra-rich finish, double the garlic butter sauce with this easy recipe:

Ingredients:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or thyme

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, melt butter and oil over medium-low heat.
2. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
3. Add herbs and red pepper flakes.
4. Drizzle over the final pasta dish or toss to coat.

How to Make Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash – Step by Step

This dish comes together in just six main steps and under 30 minutes. Here’s how to make this easy fall sausage pasta recipe from start to finish:

Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash

• Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
• In a large bowl, toss 3 cups cubed butternut squash with 1 tablespoon olive oil, a pinch of salt, and a crack of black pepper.
• Spread evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet and roast for 15–20 minutes, until fork-tender and slightly caramelized on the edges.

Pro Tip: Smaller cubes roast faster and more evenly. Aim for ¾-inch cubes.

Step 2: Roast the Brussels Sprouts

• While the squash roasts, trim and halve 340 g Brussels sprouts.
• Toss with 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper.
• Roast on a separate tray or alongside the squash for 20–30 minutes, flipping halfway until golden and crispy on the cut sides.

Roasting unlocks the natural sweetness and reduces the bitterness — key for veggie skeptics!

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Cook 225 g bow tie pasta (or any pasta you love) until al dente.
• Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 4: Brown the Sausage

• In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat.
• Slice 340 g cooked smoked sausage into coins.
• Add to the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, until browned and slightly crispy.
• Remove from skillet and set aside.

Andouille or Cajun-style sausage adds a little heat; use regular smoked sausage for a milder flavor.

Step 5: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

• In the same skillet, add 5 cloves minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
• Add 2 tablespoons butter, stir to melt, and season with salt, pepper, and ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika.
• Stir in the reserved pasta water for a silky finish.

Step 6: Bring It All Together

• Add the cooked pasta to the garlic butter sauce.
• Toss in the roasted squash, Brussels sprouts, and browned sausage.
• Sprinkle in fresh thyme leaves, and gently toss everything to coat.

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, with extra thyme or Parmesan if desired.

Pro Tips & Cooking Secrets

1. Use pre-cubed squash to save prep time.
2. Roast veggies at a high temp (200°C+) for caramelization.
3. Don’t skip the pasta water — it binds the sauce beautifully.
4. Use a large skillet to fit everything without overcrowding.
5. Deglaze the pan after browning sausage to capture extra flavor.
6. Double the garlic if you’re a garlic lover (who isn’t?).
7. Add a dash of cayenne for a spicy kick.
8. Finish with lemon zest or juice for brightness.
9. Try whole wheat pasta for extra fiber.
10. Meal prep hack: Roast squash and Brussels in advance.

Variations & Substitutions for Sausage Pasta Squash

💡 Make it your own with these easy swaps:

• Vegetarian: Use plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms.
• Low-carb: Swap pasta for spiralized zucchini or cauliflower gnocchi.
• Dairy-free: Use vegan butter or olive oil instead.
• Gluten-free: Use certified gluten-free pasta (brown rice or chickpea).
• Extra veggies: Add kale, spinach, or roasted red peppers.

Best Ways to Serve Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, this dish fits every fall occasion:

• 🍽️ Weeknight Dinner – Cozy comfort in under 30 minutes.
• 🎉 Friendsgiving or Potluck – Travels well and reheats beautifully.
• 🕯️ Date Night In – Pair with a glass of red wine and garlic bread.
• 🍱 Meal Prep Lunches – Keeps fresh in the fridge for 3–4 days.
• 🧀 Family-Style Dinner – Top with Parmesan and serve from one big skillet.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

(Based on 4 servings – approximate)

• Calories: 520 kcal
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fat: 28g
• Fiber: 6g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 780mg

Note: Values will vary based on sausage brand and pasta used.

Storage & Reheating Guide

🧊 Storing Leftovers

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: This pasta can be frozen for up to 2 months, but note that the roasted squash may soften slightly when reheated.

🔁 Reheating Instructions

• Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.
• Oven (for large batches): Bake covered at 180°C (350°F) for 10–15 minutes.

Avoid over-microwaving to prevent the pasta from drying out. Add a pat of butter or olive oil to freshen up texture.

Sausage Pasta Squash FAQs

✅ 1. Can I make Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep this dish in advance. Roast the vegetables and cook the sausage up to two days ahead. When ready to serve, cook the pasta fresh and toss everything together with garlic butter sauce.

✅ 2. What’s the best sausage to use in fall pasta dishes?

Smoked andouille or Cajun sausage adds bold, spicy flavor. For a milder version, use kielbasa, Italian sausage, or even turkey sausage in your Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash.

✅ 3. Can I use frozen butternut squash for this recipe?

Absolutely. Just thaw and pat the squash dry before roasting. This ensures you still get a nice caramelized texture in your fall sausage pasta.

✅ 4. Is Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash freezer-friendly?

Yes, you can freeze this pasta dish. Store it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to keep the sauce creamy.

✅ 5. What pasta shapes work best for sausage and squash pasta?

Bow tie (farfalle) is ideal because it holds the sauce and veggies well, but penne, rotini, or shells are also great options for this cozy autumn dinner idea.

Don’t Miss These Flavorful Picks

If you loved this Sausage Pasta Squash recipe, you’ll definitely want to try:

• Honey Garlic Butter Roasted Carrots | Perfect Holiday Side
• Spaghetti Squash Au Gratin – Easy Creamy Casserole
• Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine – Creamy Dinner Idea

All of these recipes are easy, flavorful, and perfect for fall weeknight meals.

Your Turn in the Kitchen 🍽️

There you have it — a cozy, flavorful, and incredibly simple Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash recipe that’s perfect for any fall evening. With roasted butternut squash, smoky sausage, and tender pasta tossed in garlicky butter, it hits every comfort-food note while still feeling fresh and seasonal.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving something warm and hearty, this dish is guaranteed to become a go-to cozy autumn dinner idea in your rotation.

Try it tonight, save it for later, and don’t forget to share it with your fellow food lovers.
Now you know how to make Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash like a pro!

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