It’s that time of year again when the air turns crisp and pumpkin spice lattes become a lifeline. But hold on a second, because I have a dish that might just steal your heart (and stomach) faster than your friend can say “extra whipped cream.” Enter the star of the show: Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage. Imagine twirling perfectly al dente pasta coated in a velvety butternut squash sauce, kissed with spices, and adorned with savory sausage. It’s like a warm hug from your grandma after you’ve had a tough day—delightfully comforting and utterly irresistible.

Now, let’s get real for a moment. We’ve all been there, staring into the fridge at 5 PM wondering how to whip up something that feels fancy but doesn’t require a culinary degree. This creamy pasta dish is not only easy to make, but it also brings those cozy fall vibes right to your dinner table. Whether you’re hosting friends for an autumn gathering or just wanting to impress yourself after a long day, this recipe promises to deliver flavors so good you’ll be dreaming about them long after the last bite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This creamy butternut squash pasta is incredibly quick to whip up on busy weeknights
- The flavors meld beautifully, creating an unforgettable experience for your taste buds
- With vibrant colors and appealing textures, it’s sure to impress anyone at your dinner table
- Perfect as a main dish or served as a side, making it versatile for any occasion
Ingredients for Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Butternut Squash: About one medium-sized squash; choose one that feels heavy for its size, indicating it’s ripe and sweet.
Pasta: Use your favorite type—fettuccine or penne works wonderfully; just ensure it’s cooked al dente.
Italian Sausage: About one pound; feel free to use spicy or mild based on your heat preference.
Onion: One medium onion; yellow or white onions add depth to the flavor.
Garlic: Four cloves of fresh garlic; minced for maximum flavor impact.
Cream: Heavy cream adds richness; substitute with half-and-half if you’re looking for something lighter.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness; it helps create that luscious sauce.
Seasonings: Salt, pepper, nutmeg, and some fresh sage or thyme will elevate every bite.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prep the Butternut Squash
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle some salt before roasting them cut-side down on a baking sheet until tender—about 30 minutes should do it!
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
While the squash roasts, bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add your pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Don’t forget to reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining!
Step 3: Sauté the Sausage
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the sausage (removed from its casing) and break it apart as it cooks until browned and crispy—about five minutes should suffice.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Once the sausage is cooked through, add diced onions and minced garlic to the same pan. Sauté until fragrant—about three minutes—then reduce heat and carefully add roasted butternut squash (scooped from its skin) along with chicken broth. Stir well.
Step 5: Blend It Up
Using an immersion blender (or transferring carefully into a regular blender), blend everything until smooth and creamy! If it’s too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually until you reach desired consistency.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Return blended sauce back into skillet with sausage mixture. Toss in cooked pasta along with heavy cream and seasonings like nutmeg and thyme. Mix well over low heat until heated through.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with additional cream if desired for that perfect finishing touch!
Enjoy indulging in every delightful bite of this creamy butternut squash pasta with sausage—a dish that’s not only comforting but also brings everyone together around the dinner table!
You Must Know
- This creamy butternut squash pasta with sausage offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures
- It’s perfect for cozy dinners and can easily be adjusted to suit your taste buds
- A dish that impresses while being simple to prepare—what’s not to love?
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To create the most scrumptious creamy butternut squash pasta with sausage, start by sautéing the sausage until golden brown. While it cooks, prepare the pasta and blend the roasted butternut squash into a creamy sauce, combining all elements for a harmonious finish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your creamy butternut squash pasta with sausage! Swap in different proteins like chicken or turkey, toss in fresh spinach for color, or sprinkle some nutmeg for an added flavor twist. Your kitchen, your rules!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover creamy butternut squash pasta with sausage in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to enjoy, reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of cream if it seems dry.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth instead of water when cooking your pasta
- Always taste and season as you go; adjusting flavors can elevate your dish
- Don’t forget to save some pasta water to help bind everything together!
Sharing this recipe reminds me of that one chilly autumn evening when my friends gathered around my kitchen table. The creamy aroma filled the air as laughter spilled over stories and seconds of this delicious meal were devoured.
FAQs :
What ingredients are needed for Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage?
To make creamy butternut squash pasta with sausage, you will need butternut squash, pasta of your choice, Italian sausage, garlic, onion, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and seasonings such as salt and pepper. Fresh herbs like sage or thyme can enhance the flavor. Start by roasting the butternut squash for a rich taste and texture. You can substitute the sausage with a plant-based option if desired. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner or a festive occasion.
How do I prepare the butternut squash for this recipe?
Preparing the butternut squash involves peeling it, cutting it into cubes, and roasting it until tender. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper before spreading them on a baking sheet. Roast for about 25-30 minutes until they are golden brown and soft. This step adds a delicious sweetness to your creamy butternut squash pasta with sausage. Ensure that you keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
Can I make Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare creamy butternut squash pasta with sausage ahead of time. Cook the pasta and sauce separately. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce gently on low heat while cooking the pasta according to package instructions. Combine everything just before serving for optimal texture and flavor. This makes it convenient for meal prep or entertaining guests.
What can I serve with Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage?
Creamy butternut squash pasta with sausage pairs well with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A fresh arugula or spinach salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta nicely. For added crunch, consider adding toasted nuts or seeds to your salad. A glass of white wine can also enhance your dining experience when enjoying this delicious dish.
Conclusion for Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage :
Creamy butternut squash pasta with sausage is an inviting dish that combines flavors beautifully. With its rich texture from roasted squash and savory sausage, it’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The preparation is straightforward and allows for variations based on personal taste preferences. This recipe not only satisfies cravings but also provides comfort during cooler months. Enjoy making this delightful dish that is sure to impress family and friends!

Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage is the ultimate autumn comfort food that perfectly combines rich, velvety butternut squash sauce with al dente pasta and savory Italian sausage. This delightful dish is not only easy to prepare but also promises to impress during cozy dinners or festive gatherings. With warm spices and creamy texture, it’s a dish everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 cups roasted)
- 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
- 1 lb Italian sausage (spicy or mild)
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- Fresh sage or thyme for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Halve the butternut squash, scoop out seeds, drizzle with olive oil, season with salt, and roast cut-side down on a baking sheet for about 30 minutes until tender.
- While the squash roasts, cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook sausage until browned. Add onions and garlic; sauté until fragrant.
- Scoop roasted squash into the skillet and add chicken broth. Stir well and blend until smooth using an immersion blender.
- Return sauce to the skillet, add cooked pasta, heavy cream, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix well over low heat until heated through.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 53g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 80mg