Cozy Autumn Dinner with Sausage and Pasta Recipe

Crisp winds and falling leaves signal the perfect moment to whip up a hearty sausage and pasta recipe for an unforgettable autumn dinner.

Savory Italian sausage blends beautifully with tender pasta, creating a comforting meal that warms you from the inside out.

Robust flavors of herbs and spices dance through each bite, promising a delightful culinary experience.

Weeknight cooking doesn’t get more satisfying than this simple yet delicious dish.

Rich and aromatic, this recipe transforms basic ingredients into a memorable meal that celebrates seasonal cooking.

Gather around the table and savor every delectable forkful of this soul-warming autumn dinner that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Autumn Dinner with Sausage and Pasta Key Features

• Mix and match sausage types or swap vegetables based on your preference, making this recipe adaptable for any taste or dietary need.
• Minimal prep work and straightforward cooking steps mean you can have a delicious, hearty meal on the table without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Roasted vegetables, tender pasta, and savory sausage create a cozy, satisfying dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening.
• Streamline your cooking process by roasting vegetables and preparing the sauce in the same skillet, reducing cleanup and simplifying your meal preparation.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Autumn Sausage Pasta

• Butternut Squash: A sweet and hearty autumn vegetable that adds rich flavor and beautiful orange color to the dish.
• Bow Tie Pasta: A fun pasta shape that catches sauce and provides a perfect base for the meal.
• Sausage: A savory protein that brings depth and richness to the autumn dinner.

• Brussels Sprouts: A nutritious vegetable with a slightly crisp texture that complements the pasta and sausage.

• Olive Oil, Salt, Pepper: Classic seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients.
• Garlic: A fragrant ingredient that creates a delicious base for the sauce.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps create a smooth, flavorful coating for the pasta.
• Smoked Paprika: Provides a subtle smoky depth to the dish.
• Fresh Thyme: A delicate herb that adds a fresh, earthy note to the final preparation.

Tools for Autumn Dinner Night

• Baking Sheet: Large, flat pan for roasting vegetables evenly.
• Sharp Knife: For cubing squash and halving brussels sprouts.
• Large Skillet: Used for cooking sausage and making garlic butter sauce.
• Cutting Board: Provides stable surface for chopping ingredients.
• Pasta Pot: For boiling and draining bow tie pasta.
• Wooden Spoon or Tongs: Helps mix and toss ingredients while cooking.
• Measuring Spoons: For accurate seasoning with salt, pepper, and paprika.

How to Prepare Autumn Sausage Pasta Dinner

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Oven

Set the oven to 400F.

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Roast Butternut Squash

Cut butternut squash into bite-sized cubes.

• Olive oil
• Salt
• Black pepper

Spread evenly on prepared baking sheet.

Roast for 15-20 minutes until golden and tender.

Step 3: Roast Brussels Sprouts

Slice brussels sprouts in half.

• Olive oil
• Salt
• Black pepper

Spread on another section of the baking sheet.

Roast alongside squash for 20-30 minutes until crispy and caramelized.

Step 4: Boil Pasta

Fill a large pot with water.

Bring to a rolling boil.

Add bow tie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.

Drain in a colander.

Step 5: Sear Sausage

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add sliced sausage.

Cook 5 minutes per side until beautifully browned and cooked through.

Remove from pan and set aside.

Step 6: Create Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant.

Add butter and cooked pasta.

Toss to coat pasta in garlic butter.

• Salt
• Black pepper
• Smoked paprika

Step 7: Combine and Finish Dish

Add roasted butternut squash, brussels sprouts, and sausage to pasta.

Sprinkle fresh thyme leaves.

Toss gently to combine.

Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Serve hot and enjoy your autumn comfort meal.

Tips for a Cozy Autumn Pasta Dinner

• Cut squash and Brussels sprouts into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
• Use smoked paprika sparingly to add complexity without overwhelming the dish's delicate garlic butter sauce.
• Choose high-quality Italian or sweet sausage for better taste and texture in the final meal.
• Pat sausage and vegetables dry before cooking to promote better browning and prevent steaming.
• Add fresh thyme just before serving to preserve its bright, aromatic qualities and elevate the overall dish.

Variations on Autumn Sausage Pasta

• Vegetarian Delight: Replace sausage with roasted portobello mushrooms or plant-based sausage for a meat-free version. Slice mushrooms and roast alongside vegetables for added depth.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap bow tie pasta with gluten-free pasta made from rice, quinoa, or chickpea flour. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free certified.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the garlic butter sauce. Include chorizo instead of traditional sausage for extra heat and robust flavor.
• Mediterranean Remix: Incorporate crumbled feta cheese, kalamata olives, and fresh oregano. Use Italian sausage and add a splash of white wine to the sauce for a Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Serving Suggestions for Sausage Pasta Dinner

• Cozy Plating Paradise: Arrange pasta in large shallow bowls, creating a warm nest for sausage and roasted vegetables.
• Rustic Garnish Delight: Sprinkle fresh chopped thyme and crumbled parmesan cheese over the dish for added texture and rich flavor.
• Wine Pairing Magic: Serve with a medium-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir or Zinfandel to complement the smoky sausage and roasted vegetables.
• Bread Side Companion: Add crusty artisan bread or garlic toast on the side to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce.

Best Practices for Storing Autumn Pasta Dinner

• Store leftovers in airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Cool meal completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Transfer to freezer-safe container or zip-lock bag, removing excess air. Freeze for maximum 2 months. Label container with date and contents.
• Place portion on microwave-safe plate. Cover with damp paper towel to prevent drying. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Add small splash of olive oil or butter to skillet. Warm pasta over medium-low heat, stirring gently to redistribute sauce and prevent sticking. Cook 3-4 minutes until heated thoroughly.

FAQs

• What type of sausage works best for this recipe?

Italian sausage or mild breakfast sausage are perfect. They provide great flavor and complement the roasted vegetables nicely.

• Can I use a different pasta shape?

Absolutely! Bow tie pasta is fun, but penne, rigatoni, or fusilli will work just as well. Choose a shape that holds sauce well.

• Is smoked paprika necessary for the recipe?

While not mandatory, smoked paprika adds a deep, rich flavor that enhances the entire dish. If you don’t have it, regular paprika can be a substitute.

• How do I know when the vegetables are perfectly roasted?

Look for golden brown edges and a tender texture. Brussels sprouts and butternut squash should have slightly crispy exteriors with soft insides.

Autumn Dinner with Sausage and Pasta Recipe

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4.5 from 14 reviews

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Hearty sausage and pasta recipe brings Italian countryside comfort to your table. Rustic flavors blend seamlessly, creating a satisfying meal you’ll savor with each delicious bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Roasted Vegetables:

• 3 cups (710 ml) butternut squash, peeled, seeded, cubed
• 12 ounces (340 grams) Brussels sprouts, halved
• 3 tablespoons (45 ml) olive oil (divided)

Pasta & Protein:

• 8 ounces (227 grams) bow tie pasta
• 12 ounces (340 grams) cooked smoked sausage (cajun, andouille, or regular)
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil

Sauce & Seasonings:

• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons (30 grams) butter
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Fresh thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Prepare the butternut squash by cutting into uniform cubes, ensuring even cooking. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet, creating a single layer for optimal roasting at 400F for 15-20 minutes until edges caramelize and squash becomes tender.
2. Slice brussels sprouts in half, maintaining their structural integrity. Coat with olive oil and season generously. Spread on a separate baking sheet, positioning alongside the squash in the 400F oven. Roast for 20-30 minutes until edges crisp and interiors soften.
3. Fill a large pot with water, bringing to a rolling boil. Add bow tie pasta, cooking according to package instructions until al dente. Drain thoroughly, reserving minimal moisture.
4. Heat olive oil in a spacious skillet over medium-high heat. Slice sausage into diagonal medallions, allowing maximum caramelization. Cook for approximately 5 minutes per side until a rich golden-brown crust develops.
5. Reduce skillet heat, introducing minced garlic and allowing it to become fragrant. Incorporate butter, creating a luxurious coating. Introduce drained pasta, tossing to ensure complete integration with the garlic butter sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and a hint of smoked paprika.
6. Combine roasted vegetables and sautéed sausage with the pasta. Sprinkle fresh thyme leaves throughout, gently folding to distribute flavors evenly. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, ensuring a harmonious blend of autumn-inspired ingredients.

Notes

• Customize Roasting: Experiment with different squash varieties like acorn or kabocha for unique flavor profiles and textures.
• Vegetarian Swap: Replace sausage with plant-based sausage or roasted chickpeas to create a meat-free version of this hearty autumn dish.
• Spice Enhancement: Boost flavor by adding red pepper flakes or a pinch of nutmeg to the garlic butter sauce for extra warmth and depth.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Roast vegetables and cook sausage in advance, storing separately to quickly assemble the meal during busy weeknights.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Roasting
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 50 g
• Fiber: 6 g
• Protein: 18 g
• Cholesterol: 45 mg