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Autumn Sausage Pasta Squash

A comforting and nutritious pasta dish featuring al dente pasta, spicy Italian sausage, roasted butternut squash, and wilted spinach, topped with Parmesan cheese.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 8 oz pasta Any shape you love! Rotini is recommended.
  • 1 lb Italian sausage Choose sweet or spicy based on your preference.
  • 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed Fresh is best, but pre-cubed squash is available.
  • 2 cups spinach Fresh is ideal; thaw and drain frozen spinach.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic is preferred.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated Use freshly grated for better flavor.
  • 2 tbsp olive oil Use good quality extra-virgin olive oil.
  • Salt and pepper To taste.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.
Cooking
  1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart as it cooks.
  2. Stir in the minced garlic and cubed butternut squash. Cook for another 8-10 minutes until the squash is fork-tender and golden.
  3. Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Gently fold in the cooked pasta and Parmesan cheese, mixing well. Add reserved pasta water as needed to achieve the desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving
  1. Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.

Notes

Make ahead by prepping butternut squash and sausage in advance. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for a month.