Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach Recipe

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of pasta in the cooler months, and this butternut squash pasta with sausage and spinach recipe is no exception. It blends the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash with hearty Italian sausage and fresh spinach, making it an easy go-to for a cozy fall dinner you’ll love.

this Recipe

If you’re looking for a meal that is just as satisfying as it is flavorful, this dish ticks all the boxes. The butternut squash adds a creamy texture without heavy cream, keeping it light but indulgent. Plus, it comes together quickly on the stovetop, perfect for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines sweet butternut squash with savory Italian sausage for balanced flavor.
• Incorporates fresh spinach for added nutrition and color.
• Uses simple ingredients you likely already have at home.
• Ready in under 40 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight meals.
• A comforting, filling dish that’s ideal for chilly fall evenings.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make a delicious batch of butternut squash pasta with sausage and spinach. You’ll need pantry staples and fresh produce to create the perfect balance of flavors.

• 12 ounces dried pasta (penne or rigatoni recommended)
• 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 pounds), peeled and cubed
• 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
• 4 cups fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
• 1/2 cup vegetable or chicken broth
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 520 per serving

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

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water.
2. While pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cubed butternut squash and sauté for 8-10 minutes until tender and lightly browned. Remove squash from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for another 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the sausage to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Return the cooked butternut squash to the skillet and pour in the broth. Stir to combine and simmer for 3 minutes to meld flavors.
6. Add the chopped spinach and cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together. If the mixture seems dry, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
7. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.

Tips for the Best Results

• Peel and cube the butternut squash evenly so it cooks uniformly.
• Use mild or spicy Italian sausage based on your heat preference.
• Reserve pasta water to loosen the sauce and help it cling to the noodles.
• Don’t overcook the spinach; add it at the end to keep it bright and fresh.
• For a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end if desired.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover butternut squash pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.

This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm on the stovetop to retain texture and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes, you can substitute Italian sausage with chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even a plant-based sausage if you prefer. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the sausage is fully cooked.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the sausage and add more vegetables like mushrooms or roasted chickpeas for protein. You can also use a vegetarian sausage alternative.

Can I prepare the butternut squash ahead of time?

Yes, you can roast or sauté the squash earlier in the day and keep it refrigerated until ready to use. This can speed up the cooking process when you’re ready to make the full dish.

What pasta works best with this recipe?

Short pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or farfalle work best to hold the sauce and mix well with the sausage and squash. However, feel free to use your favorite pasta shape.