Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach Recipe

If you’re ready to fall in love with a cozy, comforting, and absolutely delicious dish, look no further than Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach. This recipe brings together the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash, the savory richness of Italian sausage, and the fresh, vibrant taste of spinach in a creamy, dreamy sauce that clings to your favorite short pasta perfectly. It’s a meal that feels warm and hearty enough for chilly nights but is effortlessly elegant for a friendly dinner party. Trust me, once you try this combination, it’ll become one of your absolute favorites too.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach recipe plays a starring role, whether it’s adding depth of flavor, texture, or a pop of color. Don’t be intimidated—these simple staples come together to create something truly magical.

• Butternut Squash: Use about 2–3 cups of cubed squash, which adds natural sweetness and creamy texture.
• Sausage: 8 ounces of Italian sausage, either spicy or mild, delivers a savory, meaty punch.
• Pasta: 12 ounces of your preferred short pasta like penne or fusilli, perfect for catching the sauce.
• Spinach: 4 cups fresh leaves provide a vibrant color and fresh, earthy bite.
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced, for aromatic depth.
• Shallot: 1 small, finely chopped, adds a subtle sweetness; onion can work too.
• Chicken Broth: 1 cup to create a light, flavorful sauce base.
• Heavy Cream: Half a cup for that rich, silky sauce; half-and-half or plant milk are great alternatives.
• Parmesan Cheese: Half a cup freshly grated, plus extra for sprinkling, to bring nutty, savory notes.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons to cook ingredients and add a fruity richness.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste—essential for balancing flavors.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, if you like a little heat to wake up the dish.
• Nutmeg: Just a pinch, a little secret boost that adds warmth and complexity.

How to Make Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach

Step 1: Prepping the Butternut Squash

Start by peeling, seeding, and cubing your butternut squash into uniform 1-inch pieces—this ensures even cooking. You can either roast for a beautifully caramelized flavor or steam for a lighter, simpler option. Roasting at 400°F for 25-30 minutes with olive oil, salt, and pepper brings out a sweet, nutty taste, while steaming for around 10-12 minutes keeps it soft and tender.

Step 2: Cook Your Pasta

While the squash is cooking, boil a pot of salted water and cook your pasta until al dente. Remember to save about a cup of the pasta water before draining—this starchy liquid is liquid gold for adjusting the sauce’s consistency later on.

Step 3: Sauté the Sausage

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet and break up the sausage as you cook it over medium heat until browned and deliciously crisp, about 8-10 minutes. Browning the sausage well builds a deep flavor that makes this Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach absolutely irresistible. Once done, set it aside for now.

Step 4: Sauté the Garlic and Shallots

In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and toss in the minced garlic and shallots. Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened—this gentle saute creates the flavor base that makes every bite sing.

Step 5: Make the Butternut Squash Sauce

Once your squash is ready, pop it in a blender or food processor with chicken broth, cream, and a pinch of nutmeg, blending until silky smooth. If you prefer texture, mashing by hand gives a rustic touch. Season the sauce now with salt and pepper to taste—this creamy base is what makes the dish so comforting.

Step 6: Combine Everything in the Pan

Pour the luscious butternut squash sauce right back into your skillet, mixing it with the garlicky shallots before stirring in the cooked sausage. Now add the pasta, tossing gently until everything is wonderfully coated. If your sauce feels thick, add some reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your perfect saucy consistency.

Step 7: Add the Spinach

Lastly, fold in the fresh spinach and cook just until it wilts, around 2-3 minutes. This is where the dish bursts with color and freshness. Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and give it a final taste check. Red pepper flakes add a nice kick, but feel free to leave them out if you’re not into heat.

How to Serve Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach

Garnishes

A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top feels like a little celebration with every forkful. For a bright twist, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil creates a lively, fresh finish that perfectly complements the creamy sauce.

Side Dishes

This dish shines on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, a crisp green salad with tangy vinaigrette or some crusty artisan bread to soak up every last bit of sauce makes an unbeatable pairing. Roasted Brussels sprouts or a simple blend of steamed veggies can also add variety without overwhelming the flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a modern touch, serve the pasta directly in shallow bowls and garnish with toasted pine nuts or crispy sage leaves for added crunchy texture. You can also turn this into a baked pasta dish by transferring to a casserole dish, sprinkling extra cheese on top, and broiling for 3-5 minutes until golden and bubbly—comfort food elevated.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for an even tastier next-day meal.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, this pasta freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Keep in mind the spinach might darken a bit but will still taste delicious.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving if possible to preserve the texture and flavor balance of this Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach.

FAQs

Can I use turkey or chicken sausage instead of pork sausage?

Absolutely! Turkey or chicken sausage works great and can lighten up the dish while still offering plenty of flavor. Just cook it similarly until browned.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the sausage for plant-based sausage or mushrooms for a hearty texture, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The butternut squash sauce remains just as creamy and delicious.

What pasta shape works best?

Short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli is ideal because their ridges catch the creamy butternut squash sauce beautifully. Feel free to use your favorite though!

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Definitely. The butternut squash sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 days—it saves time on cooking day and keeps all the rich flavors intact.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

Half-and-half is a lighter option, or unsweetened almond or coconut milk for a dairy-free choice. These alternatives still provide creaminess but with fewer calories or different flavor notes.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach enough—it’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate and makes any dinner feel special. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, it’s guaranteed to bring smiles and satisfied appetites. So go ahead, gather those ingredients, and treat yourself to this seasonal comfort that never goes out of style!

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