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Cozy Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash

A hearty dish combining savory sausage, tender pasta, and roasted butternut squash, perfect for chilly fall evenings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 500

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
  • 1 pound halal sausage (Italian or chicken sausage)
  • 8 ounces pasta (penne or rotini recommended)
  • 2 cups spinach (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried sage
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving, optional)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Peel and cube the butternut squash, then toss it in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread it on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes or until tender and golden brown.
Cooking
  1. While the squash is roasting, cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, then add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
  3. Crumble the halal sausage into the skillet and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 7-10 minutes.
  4. Stir in the roasted squash, spinach, thyme, sage, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the spinach to wilt.
  5. Add the cooked pasta into the skillet, tossing everything together to combine. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

Don’t rush the roasting of the squash for the best flavor. Feel free to add other vegetables or use alternative pasta for different dietary preferences. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2-3 months.