Butternut squash sausage pasta is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any dinner table. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, this quick and easy pasta dinner makes weeknight meals feel like gourmet restaurant experiences. For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Butter Green Beans recipe.

Imagine twirling your fork through perfectly cooked pasta, enveloped in a smooth butternut squash sauce that tempts your taste buds with sweetness and savory notes from the sausage. This dish is perfect for cozy family gatherings or casual evenings when you want to impress without the stress.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The butternut squash sausage pasta is simple to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights
- Its rich flavor profile combines sweet and savory elements, creating a mouthwatering experience
- Visually, the vibrant orange of the squash paired with colorful herbs makes it stunning on any plate
- This dish is versatile enough to accommodate various dietary preferences; throw in some spinach or use gluten-free pasta as needed
Cooking this tasty treat is a memory etched in my mind: my family’s delighted faces as they devoured every last bite left me feeling like a culinary rock star.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Butternut Squash: Choose a firm squash without blemishes for the best flavor; it should feel heavy for its size.
- Sausage: I prefer Italian sausage for its spices, but feel free to use chicken or turkey sausage.
- Pasta: Any pasta works well, though I often choose rotini for its ability to hold onto the sauce.
- Onion: A medium yellow onion adds sweetness once caramelized; don’t skip this step! For more inspiration, check out this Chewy Caramel Coconut Cookies recipe.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic elevates the dish’s aroma; use several cloves for a robust flavor.
- Vegetable or Chicken Broth: This adds depth to your sauce; low-sodium options are preferable.
- Cream or Coconut Milk: Use cream for richness, or coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative that introduces subtle sweetness.
- Fresh Sage or Thyme: These herbs elevate the dish with aromatic notes; adjust according to your preference.
- Parmesan Cheese (optional): Grated cheese enhances flavor; sprinkle generously before serving.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
- Start by assembling all your ingredients on the counter. This prep makes cooking smoother and helps keep track of what you need while avoiding kitchen chaos.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add your chosen sausage. Cook until browned and crumbly—about 5-7 minutes. The aroma will fill your kitchen like an Italian feast inviting you in.
- Add chopped onions into the skillet with the sausage. Sauté until they become translucent and fragrant—around 3-4 minutes—followed by minced garlic. Stir continuously to avoid burning!
- While the aromatics cook, peel and cube your butternut squash into small pieces. Toss these cubes into the skillet next, cooking them until they soften—about 10 minutes—with occasional stirring.
- Once softened, carefully transfer everything into a blender or food processor with broth and cream (or coconut milk). Blend until smooth—this creamy mixture should resemble sunshine in texture and color!
- Cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain it well, reserving some pasta water if needed later. Toss the cooked pasta with your blended sauce in the skillet over low heat until evenly coated.
- Stir in fresh herbs like sage or thyme just before serving; their vibrant aroma will make you feel like a culinary wizard! If desired, add grated Parmesan cheese at this stage for an extra layer of flavor.
Now you have a comforting bowl of butternut squash sausage pasta ready to be devoured! Enjoy every luscious bite of this quick and easy dinner option that warms both heart and soul.
You Must Know
- Butternut Squash Sausage Pasta is a heartwarming dish that combines creamy textures with savory flavors
- The sweetness of the butternut squash pairs perfectly with spicy sausage, making it a comforting meal any day of the week
- Plus, it’s quick to whip up!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking the sausage until browned, then add diced squash and simmer until tender. Cook pasta separately and combine everything for a seamless blend of flavors.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or use different types of sausage for a unique twist. Adding herbs like sage can enhance the dish even more.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream if needed.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh butternut squash for better flavor; it makes all the difference
- When cooking sausage, don’t rush—allow it to brown fully for richer taste
- Make sure to reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency later
The first time I made Butternut Squash Sausage Pasta, my friends devoured it in minutes! They still ask me for the recipe whenever we gather, which always warms my heart.
FAQ
What type of pasta works best for Butternut Squash Sausage Pasta?
Any short pasta such as penne or rotini will work wonderfully with this dish.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute sausage with plant-based options and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
How long does butternut squash take to cook?
Diced butternut squash generally takes about 10-15 minutes to become tender when simmered.

Butternut Squash Sausage Pasta
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Butternut squash sausage pasta is a comforting and creamy dish that transforms weeknight dinners into gourmet experiences. With a delightful blend of sweet butternut squash and savory sausage, this easy recipe is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients
- 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 lb Italian sausage (or chicken/turkey sausage)
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth (low-sodium)
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
- 2 tbsp fresh sage or thyme, chopped
- Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned (5-7 minutes).
- Add onions and sauté until translucent (3-4 minutes), then stir in garlic for an additional minute.
- Toss in butternut squash cubes and cook until tender (about 10 minutes).
- Blend the mixture with broth and cream until smooth.
- Cook rotini according to package instructions; combine with sauce in the skillet over low heat.
- Stir in fresh herbs and Parmesan before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Swap in your favorite veggies or use different types of sausage for a unique twist. Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed.