Craving a comforting and flavorful pasta dish? Look no further! This Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage & Spinach is the answer! It’s a delightful blend of sweet roasted butternut squash, savory sausage, and vibrant spinach, all tossed in a luscious creamy sauce. So, let’s ditch the takeout and dive into a bowl of homemade deliciousness!
What is Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage & Spinach?
Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage & Spinach, huh? It sounds fancy, but where does the name actually come from? I mean, is it because we’re using butternut squash? Or because we’re throwing in some sausage and spinach for good measure? Rhetorical questions, of course! Maybe it was dreamt up by a creative chef trying to impress a date.
Who knows! A friend once told me that their grandma always said, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and I have to say, with a name like that, this pasta dish might just steal hearts! So, grab your apron, roll up your sleeves, and give this quirky-named recipe a whirl. You might just fall in love with it.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage & Spinach:
This Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage & Spinach is a winner on so many levels. First and foremost, the combination of sweet butternut squash, savory sausage, and fresh spinach is truly irresistible. It’s creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor. Plus, making it at home is significantly cheaper than ordering takeout or dining out.
You control the ingredient quality, and you get a much larger portion for your money. And that rich, creamy sauce, loaded with parmesan cheese and a hint of nutmeg, elevates the whole dish. Want to check out other flavor profiles? Then you should also try our creamy tomato pasta! Give this recipe a shot and you’ll definitely love this unique dish.
Key Ingredients for Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage & Spinach:
Here’s a visual representation of the ingredients you’ll need:
- 1 medium butternut squash: Peeled, seeded, and cubed.
- 1 pound Italian sausage: Removed from casing.
- 5 ounces baby spinach: Fresh and washed.
- 1 pound pasta: Such as penne, rigatoni, or farfalle.
- 1 yellow onion: Diced.
- 2 cloves garlic: Minced.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Low sodium is preferred.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: For richness.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Plus extra for serving.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For roasting and sautéing.
- 1 teaspoon dried sage: Or 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage.
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg: Ground.
- Salt and pepper: To taste.
- Optional toppings: Red pepper flakes, fresh parsley.
How to Make Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage & Spinach:
This recipe is easier than you might think! Roasting the butternut squash brings out its natural sweetness, combining it with the savory sausage makes the dish satisfying. The creamy parmesan and nutmeg sauce elevates this dish to a luxurious meal. It is simple to prepar, ready in under an hour, allowing you to enjoy a tasty and nourishing meal without spending all night in the kitchen.
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Follow these easy steps to create your own Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage & Spinach
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roast Butternut Squash: Toss the cubed butternut squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized. Stir halfway through cooking.
- Cook Pasta: While the squash is roasting, cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Brown Sausage: In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Add Cream and Spices: Stir in the heavy cream, dried sage, and nutmeg. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta, roasted butternut squash, cooked sausage, and spinach to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until well combined and the spinach has wilted. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
- Add Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and toss until melted and creamy.
- Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes (optional), and fresh parsley (optional).
What to Serve Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with:
To complete your Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage & Spinach meal, consider these delicious pairings:
- Side Salad: A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.
- Garlic Bread: Crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli or asparagus complements the butternut squash and adds extra nutrients.
- A Crisp White Wine: A glass of Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc enhances the flavors of the dish.
Top Tips for Perfecting Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with:
Here are some tips to help you create the perfect dish:
- Roast the Squash Properly: Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet when roasting the butternut squash. This ensures that it roasts evenly and becomes caramelized.
- Use High-Quality Sausage: Opt for Italian sausage with good flavor. You can use mild, sweet, or spicy depending on your preference.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the pasta until al dente. It will continue to cook a bit when you add it to the sauce.
- Adjust the Sauce: If you want a thicker sauce, simmer it for a few more minutes. If you want a thinner sauce, add more pasta water.
- Add a Touch of Acidity: A squeeze of lemon juice at the end can brighten up the flavors and balance the sweetness of the butternut squash.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Make it Vegetarian: Omit the sausage and add some toasted walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor.
Storing and Reheating Tips:
Here’s how to store and reheat your Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage & Spinach:
- Storing: Allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the pasta in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed to loosen the sauce. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be sure to stir it occasionally to ensure even heating.
- Freezing: This pasta can be frozen, but the texture of the cream sauce may change slightly upon thawing. Transfer the cooled pasta to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Final Thoughts:
This Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage & Spinach is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With its combination of sweet, savory, and creamy flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite. So, grab your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy a delicious bowl of pasta that will leave you feeling satisfied and nourished.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use pre-cut butternut squash?
A: Yes, you can definitely use pre-cut butternut squash to save time. Just make sure it’s fresh and doesn’t have any soft or mushy spots.
Q: Can I use a different type of sausage?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of sausage, such as chicken sausage or chorizo, to suit your taste.
Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A: Yes, simply omit the sausage and add some roasted vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for added substance.
Q: Can I make this recipe vegan?
A: Yes, Substitute the heavy cream with any plant-based cream and Parmesan Cheese with Vegan Parmesan
try also : Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe and find more in pinterest