This creamy butternut squash pasta is a warm hug in a bowl! It’s packed with tasty sausage, fresh spinach, and a dreamy sauce that’s both rich and smooth.
I love how easy it is to make this dish! Just cook, mix, and enjoy. Plus, it’s perfect for impressing friends or eating on a cozy night in. Yum! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Farfalle Pasta: I love using farfalle because its shape holds the sauce nicely. If you don’t have any, swap it for penne, fusilli, or any pasta that you love!
Butternut Squash: This vegetable brings a wonderful sweetness. If it’s not in season, feel free to use butternut squash puree from a can for convenience. You can also swap it with pumpkin puree or sweet potatoes!
Italian Sausage: I often use mild sausage for a more balanced flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey sausage or plant-based sausage works great too!
Heavy Cream: While I like the richness of heavy cream, you can substitute it with half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter option. Just keep in mind it’ll alter the flavor a bit.
Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach is perfect for a boost of color and nutrients! If you have frozen spinach, it can work too; just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding.
How Do You Roast Butternut Squash Perfectly?
Roasting butternut squash is key to enhancing its sweetness and flavor. Here are simple steps to get it just right:
- Start by peeling and dicing the squash into even 1/2-inch cubes for uniform cooking.
- Toss the cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. This helps to crisp them up while roasting.
- Spread the squash on a baking sheet in a single layer. This ensures they roast evenly without steaming.
- Roast in a preheated oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through until they’re tender and lightly browned.
This method brings out that lovely caramel flavor, making your pasta dish even tastier!
Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta With Sausage And Spinach
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz farfalle (bow-tie) pasta
For the Roasted Squash:
- 3 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Sauce:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 tsp dried sage or fresh sage leaves (optional)
- 1/4 cup pasta cooking water (reserved)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pasta meal will take about 30-35 minutes to prepare. It includes about 10 minutes for cutting and prepping ingredients, 20-25 minutes for roasting the squash, and the remaining time for cooking the pasta and combining everything. A quick and satisfying dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Roast the Butternut Squash:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a bowl, toss the diced butternut squash with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper until well-coated. Spread the squash on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until tender and lightly caramelized.
2. Cook the Pasta:
While the squash is roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the farfalle pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
3. Prepare the Sausage and Veggies:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the Italian sausage. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon until it’s fully cooked and slightly crispy. If necessary, drain excess fat. Next, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently until the onion is soft and fragrant.
4. Combine and Simmer:
Once the squash is ready, gently fold it into the skillet with the sausage mixture. Add in the fresh spinach and sage (if using) and cook until the spinach wilts. Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, stirring well. Allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
5. Final Touches:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and combined into the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached. Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet, mixing everything gently to coat the pasta evenly.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Season with extra salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste. Serve the pasta warm, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy this creamy, savory dish that perfectly combines sweet roasted butternut squash, hearty sausage, and fresh spinach!
FAQs for Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta With Sausage And Spinach
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While this recipe calls for farfalle, you can substitute it with penne, rotini, or any pasta you have on hand. Just be mindful of the cooking time as different pasta shapes may vary.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, cool the pasta completely and transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce if needed.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! To make it vegetarian, simply replace the Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or skip it entirely. You can also add more veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative like coconut milk. Just note that it may change the flavor slightly, but it will still be delicious!
