Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb butternut squash, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
- 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, casings removed)
- 12 oz short pasta (such as penne, rigatoni, or orecchiette)
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
Instructions
- Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash – Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a large sheet pan, toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread the pieces out in a single layer and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the edges are slightly caramelized. Remove from the oven and set aside.
- Step 2: Cook the Pasta – While the squash is roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Before draining, carefully scoop out at least 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water and set it aside. Drain the pasta and keep it warm.
- Step 3: Brown the Sausage and Aromatics – In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Once the sausage is browned and cooked through, add the diced onion. Sauté for 5 minutes until the onion is translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and chopped sage, cooking for another 60 seconds until fragrant.
- Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce – Lower the heat to medium. Stir in the roasted butternut squash and the heavy cream. Gently mash a few pieces of the squash with your spoon to help thicken the sauce. Pour in about 1/4 cup of the reserved pasta water and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Step 5: Combine and Finish – Add the cooked pasta and the grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Toss everything together thoroughly so the pasta is well-coated. If the sauce seems too thick, add the remaining pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Diet: Vegetarian (variation mentioned)