At the first hint of fall, I find myself enchanted by the warmth of my kitchen, where seasonal ingredients come alive. There’s something magical about this Autumn Dinner with Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts, Butternut Squash, and Garlic Butter Sauce that whispers comfort and home. This dish not only embraces the flavors of autumn but also comes together in a breeze—perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. With savory sausage and caramelized vegetables enveloped in a rich garlic butter sauce, it’s a true crowd-pleaser that even offers vegetarian alternatives for ultimate inclusivity. So, are you ready to fill your home with the cozy aroma of fall? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe together!
Why is this your new favorite recipe?
Comfort Food Awesomeness: This Autumn Dinner with Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts, and Butternut Squash is the perfect dish for cool evenings, bursting with rich, savory flavors that’ll warm your heart.
Versatile Ingredients: With easy swaps for various dietary preferences, you can keep everyone happy, whether you go for the classic sausage or choose a plant-based version.
Quick Preparation: In under 30 minutes, you’ll have a hearty meal ready, making it ideal for busy nights or spontaneous gatherings.
Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of tender pasta, caramelized veggies, and a luscious garlic butter sauce makes this dish a hit with friends and family alike.
Seasonal Bliss: Celebrate autumn with vibrant ingredients, creating a dish that’s not just a meal but a cozy experience. Enjoy it with a glass of white wine, just like you would with my Garlic Butter Chicken!
Autumn Dinner Ingredients
• Gather your favorite ingredients to prepare this delightful Autumn Dinner with Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts, Butternut Squash, and Garlic Butter Sauce.
For the Pasta
- Pasta – Choose sturdy varieties like penne or farfalle for the best sauce adherence; gluten-free options work well too!
For the Sauté
- Olive Oil – Essential for sautéing; it brings richness to the dish. Feel free to substitute with butter for a different flavor.
- Italian Sausage – Provides savory depth; swap for plant-based sausage for a vegetarian-friendly option.
- Brussels Sprouts – Adds great flavor and crunch; consider using green beans or broccoli if preferred.
- Butternut Squash – Contributors of sweetness and creaminess; sweet potatoes are a great substitute for similar results.
For the Sauce
- Unsalted Butter – The base of your luscious garlic butter sauce; replace with oil for a dairy-free alternative.
- Garlic – Key for flavor; mince finely and watch it closely while cooking to avoid burning.
- Parmesan Cheese – Adds a finishing nutty flavor; nutritional yeast can replace it for a vegan twist.
Seasoning & Garnish
- Salt and Pepper – Vital for seasoning, making sure all the flavors come alive.
- Red Pepper Flakes – Add a pinch for a little heat, if desired!
- Fresh Parsley – Use as a garnish for a pop of color and freshness.
With these ingredients ready, you’re well on your way to creating a heartwarming Autumn Dinner that celebrates the season beautifully!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Autumn Dinner with Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts, Butternut Squash, Garlic Butter Sauce
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your choice of sturdy pasta, such as penne or farfalle, and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8–10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta, reserving ½ cup of the cooking water for later use.
Step 2: Sauté the Sausage
In a large skillet, heat a generous drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Sauté the sausage for 5–7 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Once done, transfer the sausage to a plate, leaving any drippings in the skillet.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add halved Brussels sprouts and diced butternut squash, stirring well to combine with the remaining oil. Cook the vegetables over medium heat for about 10–15 minutes, or until they are tender and beautifully caramelized, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce
While the vegetables are cooking, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes, or until fragrant but not browned. This garlic butter sauce will be the flavorful embrace for your autumn dinner.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the browned sausage to the skillet with the sautéed Brussels sprouts and butternut squash. Add the cooked pasta along with the garlic butter sauce, tossing everything together until well combined. The warm pasta will soak up the rich flavors from the sauce and the vegetables.
Step 6: Adjust and Season
Assess the dish’s consistency, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until you’ve reached your desired creaminess. Season generously with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you want an extra kick. Toss well to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the autumn dinner.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
To finish off your Autumn Dinner with Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts, Butternut Squash, Garlic Butter Sauce, sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese and mix until melted. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness before serving.
What to Serve with Autumn Dinner with Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts, Butternut Squash, Garlic Butter Sauce
Set the mood for a delightful evening with dishes that beautifully complement the heartwarming flavors of fall in your kitchen.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: This classic side adds a velvety texture that balances the savory sausage and sweet butternut squash.
- **Garlic Bread: ** Warm, crusty bread with a hint of garlic provides the perfect vehicle for swooping up that luscious garlic butter sauce.
- Roasted Root Vegetables: A medley of carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes brings a sweet and savory crunch, enhancing the autumn theme.
- Arugula Salad: A peppery arugula salad topped with shaved parmesan and a lemon vinaigrette adds freshness that complements the richness of the main dish perfectly.
- Crispy Green Beans: Lightly sautéed green beans deliver a refreshing crunch, providing an excellent contrast to the creamy pasta and vegetables.
- Autumn Fruit Salad: A mix of apples, pears, and pomegranate seeds offers a light, sweet contrast and a burst of color that’s irresistible.
- Chardonnay: A glass of this crisp white wine pairs wonderfully, accentuating the garlic and creaminess of the sauce while balancing the dish’s richness.
Autumn Dinner with Sausage Variations
Embrace the joy of cooking by customizing this comforting dish to fit your taste and dietary needs!
-
Vegetarian: Swap Italian sausage for plant-based sausage, or try lentils for a hearty alternative.
-
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta varieties that hold up well in sauces such as brown rice or chickpea pasta for a deliciously inclusive dish.
-
Add Crunch: Toss in some toasted walnuts or pecans before serving for a delightful textural twist.
-
Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy heat, add fresh or pickled jalapeños into the mix, adding a zesty punch to the flavor profile.
-
Sweetness Boost: If you love a hint of sweetness, consider roasting carrots or parsnips alongside the Brussels sprouts to deepen the flavors.
-
Creamy Indulgence: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese just before serving for an ultra-rich sauce.
-
Zesty Herb Infusion: Replace parsley with fresh basil or thyme for a different flavor dimension that brightens this autumn dish.
-
Culinary Experiment: Experiment with different seasonal vegetables like zucchini or carrots to keep things fresh—and delicious—every time you make it!
Feel free to explore these variations based on your mood or what’s available in your pantry. For more comforting flavors, check out my Garlic Butter Chicken or indulge in a Butternut Squash Lasagna that might just become your new favorite!
Expert Tips for Autumn Dinner
Perfect Pasta: Make sure to cook your pasta al dente. Overcooked pasta can make the dish mushy, so follow package instructions for perfect texture.
Watch the Garlic: Keep a close eye on your garlic while sautéing. If burnt, it can ruin the flavor of your garlic butter sauce, making your Autumn Dinner less enjoyable.
Season at Every Step: To enhance flavors, season your sausage, vegetables, and pasta individually. This layering of seasoning ensures a well-rounded taste throughout the dish.
Pasta Water is Key: Don’t forget to reserve that ½ cup of pasta water! It’s a magical ingredient that helps adjust the sauce’s consistency, making the dish creamy without being too oily.
Customize Substitutions: Feel free to switch up vegetables or protein. Adding seasonal produce keeps this Autumn Dinner fresh and allows for creative variations that everyone will enjoy.
How to Store and Freeze Autumn Dinner
Fridge: Store your Autumn Dinner with Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts, and Butternut Squash in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
Freezer: You can freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To prevent freezer burn, wrap tightly in plastic wrap before sealing.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the pasta and veggies moist.
Thawing: For frozen leftovers, thaw overnight in the fridge prior to reheating for the best results.
Make Ahead Options
These Autumn Dinner with Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts, Butternut Squash, and Garlic Butter Sauce components are perfect for meal prep! You can chop the Brussels sprouts and butternut squash up to 3 days in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Additionally, you can cook the sausage and pasta up to 24 hours ahead, just refrigerate them separately. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, simply sauté the prepped vegetables until tender, add the sausage and pasta, and finish with the garlic butter sauce. This approach saves time on busy weeknights while ensuring each dish remains just as delicious!
Autumn Dinner with Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts, Butternut Squash, Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe butternut squash?
Absolutely! When choosing butternut squash, look for ones that have a dull, creamy beige color and smooth skin. Avoid any with dark spots or blemishes, as these might indicate overripeness. A ripe squash should feel heavy for its size and have a firm texture.
How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?
Very! You can store your Autumn Dinner with Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts, and Butternut Squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s completely cooled before placing it in the fridge to maintain freshness.
Can I freeze this dish? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely. Then, portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, ensuring to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on low heat while adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.
What should I do if my garlic butter sauce burns?
Very! If your garlic burns, it’s best to start over to avoid the bitter flavor ruining your dish. Mince fresh garlic and melt new butter over medium-low heat. Stir it gently, watching closely until it’s fragrant but golden. The key here is to lower the heat and keep stirring!
Is there a vegetarian alternative for the sausage?
Absolutely! You can substitute the Italian sausage with plant-based sausage. There are many flavorful options available on the market, or you might even enjoy making your own from lentils or mushrooms for a homemade touch. This way, everyone can enjoy your cozy Autumn Dinner.
Are there allergy considerations with this recipe?
Very! When preparing this dish, consider any allergies present. The recipe includes dairy (butter and Parmesan), so you can substitute these with oil and nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version. Additionally, always check the labels on pre-packaged ingredients like sausage for allergens.
Autumn Dinner with Sausage, Pasta & Veggies in Garlic Butter
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted water according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and reserve ½ cup of the pasta water.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up, and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned. Transfer to a plate.
- In the same skillet, add halved Brussels sprouts and diced butternut squash. Cook for 10-15 minutes until tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
- Melt unsalted butter in a small saucepan over low heat, then add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Combine the sausage, sautéed vegetables, and cooked pasta in the skillet. Pour the garlic butter sauce over and toss until combined.
- Adjust the consistency with reserved pasta water, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste. Toss well.
- Serve topped with grated Parmesan and garnish with parsley.
Leave a Reply