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

Autumn Dinner with Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts, and Butternut Squash is a delightful dish that captures the essence of fall flavors. This comforting meal combines roasted vegetables and savory sausage with bow tie pasta, making it a perfect option for cozy gatherings or weeknight dinners. With its easy preparation and rich taste, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just over an hour, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Flavorful Combination: The garlic butter sauce enhances the roasted veggies and sausage, creating a deliciously satisfying meal.
• Seasonal Ingredients: Utilizing butternut squash and Brussels sprouts brings a taste of autumn to your table.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for dinner parties or casual family meals, it’s suitable for any occasion.
• Nutritious and Filling: Packed with veggies and protein, this recipe is both hearty and healthy.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Autumn Dinner with Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts, and Butternut Squash a success, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment can simplify the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Ideal for roasting vegetables evenly while allowing them to caramelize beautifully.
• Large pot: Necessary for boiling pasta without crowding it, ensuring even cooking.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe space for cutting ingredients like squash and sausage efficiently.

Ingredients

For this delicious Autumn Dinner with Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts, and Butternut Squash recipe, gather the following ingredients:

For the Roasted Vegetables

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

For the Pasta

• 8 oz bow tie pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Sausage Mixture

• 12 oz cooked smoked sausage (such as cajun sausage or andouille sausage)
• 5 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (to taste)
• Fresh thyme (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 temperature ensures that your vegetables roast perfectly.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

1. In a mixing bowl, toss the cubed butternut squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Halve the Brussels sprouts lengthwise. Toss them in another bowl with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and season with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Roast the Vegetables

1. Spread the butternut squash on one side of a baking sheet.
2. Place the Brussels sprouts cut-side down on the other side.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes until tender and golden brown.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

1. While the vegetables are roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the bow tie pasta to boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain and set aside.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
2. Add minced garlic to the skillet; sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
3. Incorporate sliced smoked sausage into the skillet; cook until heated through.

Step 6: Mix Everything Together

1. Add roasted vegetables to the skillet along with cooked pasta.
2. Sprinkle smoked paprika and fresh thyme over everything.
3. Toss gently to combine all ingredients well; adjust seasoning if necessary.

Now you’re ready to serve this delightful Autumn Dinner with Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts, and Butternut Squash! Enjoy every flavorful bite!

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

Serving your Autumn Dinner with Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts, and Butternut Squash can elevate the meal experience. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your dining.

Family Style

• Serve the dish in a large bowl at the center of the table. This encourages sharing and makes for a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Individual Plates

• Plate each serving with a generous portion of pasta and veggies. Garnish with fresh thyme for an added touch of elegance.

Side Salad

• Accompany the main dish with a light mixed greens salad. A simple vinaigrette will balance the richness of the sausage and butter sauce.

Garlic Bread

• Offer slices of garlic bread on the side. The crispy texture complements the creamy pasta well and adds a comforting element.

Wine Pairing

• Pair this dish with a glass of white wine like Chardonnay or a light red such as Pinot Noir. Both options enhance the flavors without overpowering them.

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

Achieving perfection in your Autumn Dinner with Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts, and Butternut Squash involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you master this recipe.

• Choose fresh ingredients: Fresh butternut squash and Brussels sprouts will enhance the flavor profile significantly.

• Roast vegetables properly: Ensure vegetables are evenly coated in olive oil and spaced out on the baking sheet for optimal roasting.

• Cook pasta al dente: This ensures that your pasta retains its texture and doesn’t become mushy when mixed with other ingredients.

• Adjust seasoning: Taste your dish before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed to bring out all flavors.

• Garnish for appeal: A sprinkle of smoked paprika or fresh thyme just before serving adds color and aroma that enhances presentation.

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 suitable side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Roasted Root Vegetables
   A mix of carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes tossed in olive oil makes for a colorful side that echoes autumn flavors.

2. Creamy Mashed Potatoes
   Mashed potatoes lend a comforting creaminess that pairs beautifully with savory sausage dishes.

3. Sautéed Green Beans
   Quickly sautéed green beans tossed in garlic provide a fresh crunch that complements the softer textures of the main dish.

4. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad mixed with cranberries and nuts offers a nutritious contrast while adding sweetness to your meal.

5. Cornbread Muffins
   Moist cornbread muffins add a hint of sweetness that balances out savory flavors perfectly.

6. Apple Cider Slaw
   A tangy apple cider slaw provides refreshing acidity that brightens up every bite alongside this hearty dinner.

7. Grilled Asparagus
   Lightly seasoned asparagus grilled until tender adds an elegant touch to your plate while keeping it seasonal.

8. Stuffed Peppers
   Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice or beans offer an additional layer of flavor while being visually appealing on your table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Autumn Dinner with Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts, and Butternut Squash, be aware of these common mistakes.

• Using the wrong pasta: Bow tie pasta works best for this dish. Avoid using long or thin pasta types as they won’t hold the sauce well.
• Overcooking the vegetables: Roasting is key to enhancing flavors. Don’t let them become mushy; aim for a golden brown color for added texture.
• Neglecting seasoning: Salt and pepper are essential. Always taste your dish before serving to adjust seasoning for maximum flavor.
• Skipping the garlic butter sauce: This sauce brings everything together! Don’t skip it; instead, make sure to mix it in thoroughly for a delicious finish.
• Not letting leftovers cool properly: Allow cooling before storing to prevent moisture buildup, which can spoil your meal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

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

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be kept for up to 3 months.

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

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish. Heat on medium power until warm, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist while reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Autumn Dinner with Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts, and Butternut Squash recipe.

What ingredients do I need for Autumn Dinner with Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts, and Butternut Squash?

You will need butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, smoked sausage, bow tie pasta, garlic, olive oil, butter, and seasonings like salt and pepper.

Can I customize my Autumn Dinner with Sausage?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out the sausage type or add different vegetables based on your preference.

How long does this dish take to prepare?

The total time is about 70 minutes including prep (30 minutes) and cooking (40 minutes).

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! It stores well in the fridge or freezer making it perfect for meal prep throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

This Autumn Dinner with Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts, and Butternut Squash is not only delightful but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding different veggies or proteins. Enjoy this cozy dish any time of year!