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Welcome to the world of creamy butternut squash pasta, a comforting and flavorful dish that perfectly embodies the essence of fall and winter cooking. This pasta recipe marries the sweet, nutty flavor of roasted butternut squash with the hearty, savory notes of Italian sausage, creating a dish that is not only satisfying but also visually stunning. The creamy sauce envelops the pasta, making each bite a delightful experience, rich in taste and texture.

Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach

Indulge in a warm, comforting bowl of creamy butternut squash pasta with sausage and spinach. This delicious dish combines roasted butternut squash's sweet flavor with savory Italian sausage and fresh spinach, all enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce. Perfect for cozy family dinners or festive gatherings, it's nutritious and satisfying. Discover the joy of cooking this fall favorite that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen! #ButternutSquashPasta #ComfortFood #FallRecipes #HealthyEating #PastaLovers
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Ingredients
  

12 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine)

1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 pound Italian sausage (both sweet or spicy, based on preference)

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup fresh spinach, chopped

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh sage or thyme for garnish (optional)

Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

Instructions
 

Roast the Butternut Squash: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the diced butternut squash on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.

    Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain and set aside.

      Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the Italian sausage. Cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it into pieces with a wooden spoon. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside, draining excess fat if needed.

        Sauté Garlic and Spinach: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add the chopped spinach and sauté until wilted, about 2 minutes.

          Make the Creamy Sauce: Add the roasted butternut squash to the skillet. Use a fork or potato masher to mash about half of the squash for a creamy texture, while leaving some chunks for interest. Pour in the heavy cream, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combine well. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.

            Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta and browned sausage back into the skillet, tossing everything together until well combined. Season with additional salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.

              Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh sage or thyme if desired. Enjoy your delicious creamy butternut squash pasta with sausage and spinach!

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 4