Sausage and Squash Penne is a hearty, comforting pasta dish that combines savory sausage with the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash. The combination of flavors creates a delightful balance between the rich, meaty sausage and the tender, caramelized squash, all tossed with al dente penne pasta in a light, garlicky sauce. This dish is perfect for fall or winter, offering warmth and comfort in every bite, and is easy enough to prepare for a weeknight dinner while still feeling special enough for a weekend meal.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), removed from casings
- 1 small butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Roast the squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread the squash on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and caramelized, turning halfway through.
- Cook the pasta: While the squash is roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
- Cook the sausage: In a large skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 7-10 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Combine the pasta and squash: Return the cooked sausage to the skillet, along with the roasted butternut squash and cooked penne. Toss everything together, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Finish and serve: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.
This Sausage and Squash Penne is a comforting, flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for cozy dinners, offering a perfect blend of savory and sweet in every bite!
