Creamy Roasted Butternut Squash Pasta | Sausage & Spinach
I have to say, this dish has become a staple in my kitchen. The Creamy Roasted Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach Recipe combined with savory sausage and nutrient-packed spinach creates this magical blend of flavors and textures. The first time I made it, I was amazed at how perfectly everything came together. It feels fancy and indulgent without requiring hours in the kitchen.
Whether I’m making this for a cozy dinner with my family or impressing a group of friends, it’s always a winner. Trust me, once you taste it, you’ll want to add it to your recipe collection! You can also enjoy a Fancy Nancy Chicken Salad Recipe as a light starter alongside this pasta for a complete meal.
What You’ll Need to Make This Delicious Pasta?
Here’s everything you’ll need for this flavorful pasta dish. Each ingredient brings something amazing to the table!
- Butternut squash (2 cups diced): Sweet and creamy when roasted, it forms the base for the sauce.
- Pasta (12 oz): Penne, fusilli, or any shape works well to hold the sauce.
- Italian sausage (1 lb): Adds a savory, slightly spicy kick to balance the sweetness of the squash.
- Fresh spinach (2 cups): Provides a pop of green and extra nutrients.
- Onion (1 medium, diced): Adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the sauce.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Elevates all the flavors with its aromatic warmth.
- Chicken or vegetable broth (1 cup): Helps create the sauce and adds richness.
- Heavy cream (½ cup): Makes the sauce irresistibly creamy.
- Parmesan cheese (½ cup, grated): Adds cheesy goodness that ties the dish together.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp): For roasting the squash and cooking the sausage.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning at each step!
Note: This recipe serves 4–6 people, making it perfect for a family meal or leftovers the next day. For another delicious chicken option, try the Chick-fil-A Chicken Salad Recipe as a lighter alternative to pair with your pasta.
Creative Variations to Match Your Preferences
There are plenty of ways to make this recipe your own. Here are some delicious alternative ideas!
- Vegetarian Version: Swap the sausage with plant-based sausage or roasted chickpeas for a hearty, meatless twist.
- Gluten-Free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta for a celiac-friendly dish.
- Dairy-Free Option: Sub heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a plant-based alternative.
- Extra Spice: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a fiery kick.
- Herbaceous Addition: Incorporate fresh thyme, sage, or basil for an herbal flavor boost.
Cooking Time
Here’s how quickly you can bring this dish to life!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Kitchen Must-Haves
Keep things simple with these tools to get the job done with ease!
- Baking sheet: For roasting the squash.
- Large pot: To boil the pasta to perfection.
- Large skillet or pan: For cooking the sausage and making the sauce.
- Blender (optional): For puréeing the squash if you prefer a smoother sauce.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: To stir and combine all the flavors.
How to Make Creamy Roasted Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach?
This recipe is easy to follow and so satisfying to make. Here’s how to bring it all together step by step.
Roast the Butternut Squash
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the diced butternut squash on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly, then roast for 25–30 minutes until tender and caramelized. Roasting enhances the squash’s natural sweetness, making the dish irresistibly flavorful.
Cook the Pasta
While the squash is roasting, boil the pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set it aside, reserving a cup of pasta water. This starchy water will help adjust the sauce’s consistency later, if needed.
Brown the Sausage and Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Crumble the sausage and cook until it’s browned and cooked through. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, stirring until the onion turns translucent. This step fills your kitchen with the most delicious, warm aroma.
Build the Creamy Sauce
Deglaze the skillet with chicken or vegetable broth, scraping up any flavorful bits left from cooking the sausage. Add the roasted squash, mashing some of it with the back of your spoon to blend into the broth. Stir in the heavy cream and simmer until the sauce thickens slightly.
Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat it evenly in the sauce. Fold in the fresh spinach, letting it wilt from the heat of the sauce. Finally, sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir everything together.
Serve and Savor
Transfer the pasta to a serving dish and garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley for a lively presentation. Serve warm, and enjoy every comforting, delicious bite with your favorite sides!
Tips for an Even Better Dish
These pro tips will take your dish to the next level!
- Roast Evenly: Cut the squash into uniform cubes for consistent roasting.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Al dente ensures it doesn’t get mushy when mixed with the sauce.
- Layer Herbs: Adding fresh sage or thyme can elevate the overall flavor profile.
- Use Fresh Parmesan: Grating it fresh enhances the pasta’s richness significantly.
How to Serve Creamy Roasted Butternut Squash Pasta?
Serve this pasta as a standalone main course or dress it up with a couple of sides. I love pairing it with a simple green salad and crunchy garlic bread. For a touch of elegance, sprinkle fresh herbs or red pepper flakes on top before serving. It’s as beautiful as it is tasty!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the approximate nutrition per serving (based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 22g
Make Ahead and Storage
Here’s how to prep, store, and reheat leftovers so you can enjoy this dish anytime!
Make Ahead: To save time, roast the squash and cook the sausage in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
Freezing: You can freeze the sauce on its own (without spinach) for up to 3 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge and warm it up before tossing with fresh-cooked pasta.
Why You’ll Be Obsessed with This Dish?
There are so many reasons why this recipe will be an instant favorite for your family and friends.
- Explosive Flavor: The sweet squash, savory sausage, and creamy sauce are a match made in heaven.
- Simple Yet Elegant: It looks stunning on the table but isn’t complicated to make.
- Customizable: Perfect for various diets and easy to adapt based on what you have.
- Nutrient-Rich: With spinach and squash, it’s a delicious way to sneak in veggies!
- Hearty Comfort Food: This pasta will warm your heart and soul with every bite.
This Creamy Roasted Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach is a showstopper of a recipe that you’ll return to again and again. Enjoy sharing it with your loved ones or savoring the leftovers all to yourself!
