This creamy butternut squash pasta is a cozy treat! It mixes sweet squash with savory sausage and fresh spinach for a delicious meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
I love how the sauce is both creamy and healthy! It’s perfect for when you want comfort food but still want to feel good. Plus, it’s quick to whip up on a busy night!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butternut Squash: This is the star of the dish! Its natural sweetness and creamy texture blend beautifully in the sauce. If you can’t find it, pumpkin or sweet potato can work as alternatives, though the flavor will change a bit!
Sausage: I like using Italian sausage for its flavor, but feel free to try chicken or turkey sausage if you’re looking for a lighter option. You can also go meatless by using a plant-based sausage instead!
Pasta: Farfalle adds a nice touch with its unique shape. However, you can easily substitute with penne, fusilli, or any pasta you have on hand. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce a rich texture. If you’re trying to cut down on calories, use half-and-half or even a plant-based cream. Just note that the flavor might be a tad lighter.
How Do You Get the Perfect Creamy Sauce?
Making a creamy sauce can be tricky, but this method is straightforward. The secret is to gradually combine your cream and cheese over low heat.
- After browning the sausage, lower the heat to prevent boiling, which can cause the cream to curdle.
- Stir in the heavy cream slowly, mixing well to blend.
- Add grated Parmesan and watch how it melts into the sauce! For a smoother blend, whisk gently.
- If the sauce is too thick, slowly add in the reserved pasta water. This helps you achieve a silky texture without losing flavor.
Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Vegetables:
- 8 oz farfalle (bowtie) pasta
- 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cut into small cubes
- 3 cups fresh spinach
For Cooking:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, plus extra for roasting squash
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casing removed
For the Sauce:
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
The total time for this delightful dish is about 40 minutes. It includes approximately 10 minutes for prep and about 30 minutes for cooking and roasting. You’ll have a beautiful, creamy meal ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Roast the Butternut Squash:
First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grab your cubed butternut squash, toss it with a drizzle of olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Spread it out on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes until it’s tender and has a nice golden color. Once done, take it out and set aside.
2. Cook the Pasta:
While the squash is roasting, put a large pot of salted water on the stove to boil. Add the farfalle pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. When the pasta is ready, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the rest and set the pasta aside.
3. Brown the Sausage:
Next, take a large skillet and heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon or spatula. Cook for about 6-8 minutes until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. If there’s a lot of fat, feel free to drain some of it.
4. Add Garlic and Cream:
Stir in the minced garlic with the sausage and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. Now it’s time to lower the heat. Pour in the heavy cream and mix in the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir well to create a creamy sauce. If it seems too thick, just add a little bit of that reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
5. Combine the Flavors:
Now, gently toss in the roasted butternut squash and fresh spinach into the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the spinach has wilted. Yum!
6. Bring it All Together:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and give everything a good stir to combine. Taste, then season with more salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired for a bit of heat.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your creamy butternut squash pasta right away! Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if you like. Enjoy the comforting and delightful flavors in every bite!
FAQ about Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach
Can I Use Fresh or Frozen Butternut Squash?
You can definitely use frozen butternut squash! Just make sure to thaw it fully before roasting to get the best texture. Fresh squash will give you a richer flavor, but frozen is super convenient!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you need a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free version, use a plant-based cream like coconut milk or cashew cream, but it may slightly change the flavor.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or more cream if the sauce thickens too much while reheating.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the sausage with a plant-based sausage or mushrooms for a hearty texture. Keep the rest of the ingredients the same for a delicious vegetarian meal!
