One Pot Dish: All the Fall Flavors - Creamy Butternut Squash, Sage & Sausage Pasta

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this creamy butternut squash and sausage pasta recipe! Perfect for busy weeknights, rainy afternoons, or cozy evenings at home, this one-pot wonder combines the rich flavors of sweet butternut squash, savory sausage, and creamy sage sauce—all in one easy-to-make dish. Let's dive into how you can create this delicious meal that will satisfy your taste buds and warm your soul. It is a hit that your family will love! 

Ingredients:

• 1-2 lbs ground sage sausage 

• 1 small butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cut into cubes (or pre-cut frozen butternut squash)

• 1 onion, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1-2 teaspoon dried sage (or 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped)

• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)

• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 12 oz pasta (such as fettucine, penne, bowtie, rotini, or fusilli) or chickpea pasta for added protein or for a gluten free option

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

• Pecans or walnuts, chopped, for garnish
  

  
  

Instructions:

1. Brown the Sausage: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it into crumbles with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink. Remove excess fat if needed.

2. Sauté the Aromatics: Add the diced onion to the pot with the sausage and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, dried sage, thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using), and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. Add Butternut Squash and Pasta: Stir in the cubed butternut squash and uncooked pasta. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook over medium heat for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and the squash is tender.

4. Finish with Cream: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring gently, until the sauce is creamy and heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Serve and Enjoy: Remove from heat and let it sit for a few minutes to thicken. Serve the creamy butternut squash and sausage pasta hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.
   

Tips for Success:

• Prep Ahead: Save time by prepping the butternut squash and chopping the onion and garlic in advance.

• Customize: Feel free to swap the Italian sausage for chicken sausage or even ground turkey for a lighter option.

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed.
  

Why You'll Love This Recipe:

• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup with everything cooked in a single pot.

• Rich and Creamy: The combination of butternut squash and cream creates a luxurious sauce that coats every bite.

• Family Favorite: A crowd-pleasing dish that satisfies both kids and adults alike with its comforting flavors.

• Alternatives: if you are having a difficult time finding butternut squash, sweet potatoes are a great alternative. 
  

Indulge in creamy butternut squash and sausage pasta—a hearty and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're feeding a hungry family or treating yourself to a cozy dinner, this easy one-pot recipe delivers on taste, convenience, and comfort. Enjoy the delicious flavors of fall in every bite!

Ready to try this creamy pasta dish? Gather your ingredients and prepare to impress your loved ones with a flavorful and comforting meal. Share your cooking experience in the comments below and let us know how you enjoyed this delicious recipe by tagging us on Instagram!