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Butternut Squash And Sausage Pasta Recipe

Butternut Squash And Sausage Pasta Recipe

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  • Total Time: 45 minutes

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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)