Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach Recipe

As cooler weather settles in, nothing hits the spot quite like a comforting bowl of butternut squash pasta. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash with savory sausage and fresh spinach to create a cozy fall dinner you’ll love making again and again.

this Recipe

With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this butternut squash pasta is perfect for anyone looking to bring warmth and seasonal flavors to the table without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines sweet, savory, and earthy flavors for a well-balanced dish.
• Uses seasonal butternut squash for a fresh fall ingredient.
• Quick stovetop preparation perfect for weeknights.
• Nutritious with protein, veggies, and comforting pasta.
• Versatile enough to customize with your favorite herbs or pasta shapes.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make a hearty and flavorful butternut squash pasta with sausage and spinach.

• 12 ounces dried pasta (penne or rigatoni works great)
• 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 pounds), peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
• 3 cups fresh baby spinach
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage leaves
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup reserved pasta cooking water

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 550 per serving

How to Make Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach: A Cozy Fall Dinner You’ll Love

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F. Toss the diced butternut squash with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet, then roast for 20 minutes until tender and lightly caramelized.
2. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
3. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and cook the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the sausage and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and crushed red pepper flakes; cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
5. Add the roasted butternut squash and cooked sausage back into the skillet. Toss in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Stir in the reserved pasta water and Parmesan cheese to create a light sauce. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
6. Add the drained pasta to the skillet and gently toss everything together to combine and heat through. Sprinkle with chopped fresh sage, and give one last toss.
7. Serve immediately with extra grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of black pepper. Enjoy this warm, flavorful dish perfect for chilly nights.

Tips for the Best Results

• Make sure to roast the butternut squash until caramelized for maximum flavor depth.
• Reserve pasta water; it helps create a creamy sauce that clings to the noodles.
• Use fresh sage for an authentic fall taste and aromatic finish.
• Opt for mild or spicy Italian sausage based on your preferred heat level.
• Don’t overcook the spinach—add it at the end to keep its vibrant color and texture.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover butternut squash pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the flavors fresh, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce seems dry.

You can also freeze this dish by placing portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating slowly on the stovetop to maintain texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of sausage?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken works well if you prefer a leaner option. Season it with Italian herbs and spices to mimic the sausage flavor.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, simply substitute the regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta variety. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I prepare the butternut squash in advance?

Absolutely! Roasting the squash a day ahead saves time on cooking day and allows the flavors to deepen. Just store it in the fridge until ready to use.

What pasta shapes work best for this dish?

Short, ridged pasta like penne, rigatoni, or shells hold the sauce well and provide a nice texture contrast, but you can use any pasta you prefer.