why make this recipe
Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach is a delicious dish that brings comfort food to a new level. This meal combines the sweetness of butternut squash with hearty sausage and fresh spinach, creating a perfect balance of flavors. It’s easy to make and can be enjoyed by everyone at the table. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies while indulging in creamy sauce, making it a win-win for busy weeknight dinners.
how to make Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach
Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta of choice
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 cup spinach, washed and chopped
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, chopped
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving
Directions:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until translucent.
- Add the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon until browned and cooked through.
- Stir in the diced butternut squash and cook until tender, about 10-15 minutes.
- Add the spinach and cook until wilted.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper.
- Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the sauce, mixing until well coated.
- Serve warm, topped with Parmesan cheese.
how to serve Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach
Serve this pasta warm on individual plates or in a large bowl for sharing. Top each serving with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor. Pair it with a simple side salad or garlic bread to round out the meal. This dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
how to store Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach
If you have leftovers, place them in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat them on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. You might want to add a splash of cream or milk to rehydrate the sauce during reheating.
tips to make Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach
- Make sure to peel and dice the butternut squash into small pieces for even cooking.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of spinach based on your preference; more greens can add extra nutrition.
- For a lighter option, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg for a warm, cozy flavor that complements the squash.
variation
You can customize this recipe by using different types of pasta, such as whole wheat or gluten-free options. Additionally, swapping Italian sausage for turkey or chicken sausage will make it a bit leaner. For a vegetarian version, omit the sausage entirely and add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen butternut squash?
Yes, you can use frozen butternut squash. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess water before adding it to the skillet.
2. How can I make this dish spicier?
Consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or using spicy Italian sausage for an extra kick.
3. Can I prepare this ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time. Just combine them before serving and reheat thoroughly.
Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta of choice Use your preferred type of pasta.
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced Make sure to peel and dice into small pieces for even cooking.
- 1 cup spinach, washed and chopped Adjust the amount based on preference.
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed Can substitute with turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner option.
- 1 cup heavy cream For a lighter option, substitute with half-and-half or plant-based cream.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil For sautéing.
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving Top each serving for added flavor.
Instructions
Cooking
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until translucent.
- Add the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon until browned and cooked through.
- Stir in the diced butternut squash and cook until tender, about 10-15 minutes.
- Add the spinach and cook until wilted.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper.
- Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the sauce, mixing until well coated.
- Serve warm, topped with Parmesan cheese.