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As the crispness of fall settles in, there’s nothing quite like a comforting bowl of pasta to warm your soul. The Cozy Roasted Butternut Squash and Sausage Pasta is an inviting dish that perfectly embodies the flavors of the season. With its combination of sweet, caramelized butternut squash, savory Italian sausage, and a creamy sauce that blankets each piece of pasta, this recipe has quickly become a favorite for family dinners and special occasions alike. It’s a dish that not only satisfies the palate but also brings a sense of warmth and comfort, evoking the essence of autumn in every bite.

Roasted Butternut Squash and Sausage Pasta

Embrace the flavors of fall with Cozy Roasted Butternut Squash and Sausage Pasta, a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. With sweet, caramelized butternut squash paired with savory Italian sausage and a creamy sauce, this pasta is perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Its versatility allows for ingredient substitutions, making it a dish everyone can enjoy. Discover how to create this comforting meal and cherish the moments shared around the table.
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Ingredients
  

1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced into approximately 1-inch cubes

2 tablespoons olive oil, divided

Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 pound Italian sausage (choose sweet or spicy based on your preference), casings removed

3 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup onion, finely diced

8 ounces pasta (penne or farfalle are excellent choices)

1/2 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving

Fresh basil or parsley sprigs, for garnish

Optional: crushed red pepper flakes, for a spicy kick

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s ready for roasting.

    Prepare the Squash: Take a large mixing bowl and toss the cubed butternut squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, a generous pinch of salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and dried thyme. Make sure the squash is well-coated.

      Roast the Squash: Spread the seasoned squash out evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast it in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until it’s tender and beautifully caramelized. Remember to turn the squash halfway through the roasting time for even cooking.

        Cook the Pasta: While the squash is roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until it’s al dente. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta water to help adjust the sauce later. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

          Sauté the Sausage: Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

            Add Aromatics: Once the sausage is browned, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the onions are translucent and the garlic is aromatic.

              Combine Ingredients: Reduce the heat to low and incorporate the roasted butternut squash into the skillet with the sausage mixture. Add the cooked pasta next, followed by the heavy cream and half of the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together until well combined. If the mixture appears dry, gradually add more reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.

                Incorporate Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and blend into the dish. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes if you desire some extra heat.

                  Serve: Spoon the pasta into serving bowls, generously garnish with extra Parmesan cheese, and finish with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color. Enjoy this comforting meal!

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 1 hour | 4 servings

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                        This updated version enhances clarity and detail while maintaining the original structure. Adjustments focus on providing more precise instructions and flavor notes, making it even easier to follow.