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As the leaves begin to change color and the air turns crisp, there's nothing quite like a warm, hearty meal to celebrate the arrival of autumn. The Cozy Roasted Butternut Squash and Sausage Pasta is the perfect dish to embrace the season, offering a delightful blend of flavors and textures that warms the soul. This recipe combines the earthiness of roasted butternut squash with the savory richness of Italian sausage, creating a comforting pasta dish that is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying for family dinners or gatherings with friends.

Roasted Butternut Squash and Sausage Pasta

Warm up your autumn evenings with this Cozy Roasted Butternut Squash and Sausage Pasta recipe. It's a delicious blend of roasted butternut squash, savory Italian sausage, and your choice of pasta, creating a hearty dish that's perfect for family dinners or gatherings. With its creamy sauce enhanced by garlic and Parmesan, this meal not only satisfies but also brings comfort during cooler days. Discover how to create this seasonal favorite today!
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Ingredients
  

1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed

2 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, depending on your preference), casings removed

3 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup onion, diced

8 ounces pasta (penne or farfalle recommended)

1/2 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving

Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Optional: crushed red pepper flakes, for extra heat

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).

    Prepare the Squash: In a large mixing bowl, add the cubed butternut squash. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and season generously with salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Use your hands or a spatula to toss the squash, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.

      Roast the Squash: Spread the seasoned squash cubes out onto a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast them in the preheated oven for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until they are tender and caramelized. Be sure to turn the squash halfway through cooking for even browning.

        Cook the Pasta: While the squash is roasting, fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water. Afterward, drain the pasta and set it aside.

          Sauté the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sausage to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Sauté until the sausage is browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

            Add Aromatics: Once the sausage is browned, stir in the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions have softened and become translucent while the garlic becomes fragrant.

              Combine Ingredients: Reduce the heat to low and add the roasted butternut squash to the skillet along with the cooked pasta. Pour in the heavy cream and half of the reserved pasta water, tossing everything together gently. If the sauce seems thick, gradually add more reserved pasta water until you've reached your desired consistency.

                Incorporate Cheese: Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts into the creamy sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes, if desired.

                  Serve: Divide the pasta evenly among serving bowls. Top with additional grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Enjoy your cozy and comforting meal!

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 1 hour | 4 servings