If you’re in search of an easy dinner that delivers incredible flavor and satisfying comfort, look no further than this sausage pasta recipe. Combining tender pasta with smoky sausage and roasted vegetables, it’s quickly becoming a go-to meal for weeks when time is tight but you still want a delicious, hearty dish.
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Easy Sausage Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss butternut squash with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a parchment-lined baking sheet and roast for 15–20 minutes until tender and caramelized.
- Toss Brussels sprouts with 2 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast alongside the squash for 20–30 minutes until crisp-tender.
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook pasta until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced sausage and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté garlic for 30–60 seconds until fragrant. Add butter and let it melt, then toss in the cooked pasta. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Add roasted vegetables, cooked sausage, and thyme to the skillet. Pour in reserved pasta water gradually to create a creamy coating, tossing gently to combine.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve warm and enjoy your comforting sausage pasta.
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!This smoked sausage pasta is not only quick to prepare but also packed with wholesome ingredients, making it an excellent choice for healthy dinner recipes that the entire family will love. Whether you’re craving a lazy dinner or a meal to impress, this pasta dinner recipe checks all the boxes.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Sausage Pasta Recipe
This smoked sausage pasta brings together the best elements of comfort food and nutritious ingredients. Here’s what makes it stand out as one of the best pasta dinner recipes for quick dinner ideas:
- Deliciously Flavorful: The smoky depth from the sausage pairs perfectly with the sweetness of roasted butternut squash and garlic butter sauce.
- Fast and Easy: Ready in under an hour, this meal fits perfectly into busy weeknights or lazy dinners.
- Versatile Ingredients: Use smoked sausage, sweet Italian sausage, or your favorite variety to customize the flavor.
- Healthy and Balanced: Loaded with vegetables and protein, offering a wholesome alternative to typical pasta dinners.
- Minimal Cleanup: One skillet is all you need for preparing and mixing, saving you time in the kitchen.
Ingredients for Easy Sausage Pasta
Gather these simple ingredients for a hearty meal packed with flavor. This recipe serves about four:
- 3 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed into ½-inch pieces
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 340 g Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 225 g bow tie (or your favorite) pasta
- 340 g cooked smoked sausage, sliced (or sweet Italian sausage for a milder taste)
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Sausage Pasta
- Roast Vegetables: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss butternut squash with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes until tender and caramelized. Toss Brussels sprouts with 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast alongside for 20-30 minutes until crisp-tender.
- Cook Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
- Brown Sausage: While pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced sausage and cook until browned and fragrant. Remove sausage and set aside.
- Make Sauce: In the same skillet, sauté garlic for 30-60 seconds until fragrant. Add butter and let it melt, then toss cooked pasta into the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Combine Ingredients: Add roasted vegetables, cooked sausage, and fresh thyme to the skillet. Pour in reserved pasta water a little at a time to create a creamy sauce, tossing gently to combine.
- Serve Warm: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately for a satisfying and comforting meal.
Pro Tips for Best Results
To make your sausage pasta even better, keep these tips in mind:
- Roast vegetables until golden and caramelized for enhanced natural sweetness.
- Always reserve some pasta water—it’s key to achieving a creamy, rich sauce without heavy cream.
- Choose quality smoked sausage or sweet Italian sausage depending on your spice tolerance.
- Taste and adjust salt and spices at the end for perfect balance.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
Pair this meal with a side of green salad or crusty bread to soak up the buttery sauce. For more variety, you can substitute sweet potatoes or acorn squash for butternut squash. Vegetarians can swap sausage for plant-based alternatives or extra roasted veggies like mushrooms and zucchini. Looking for more heat? Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce when sautéing garlic for an extra kick.
Nutrition and Storage Tips
This sausage pasta provides a well-rounded meal with protein, veggies, and carbohydrates, ideal for quick dinner ideas that don’t sacrifice nutrition. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of sausage is best for this pasta?
Smoked sausage adds a deep savory flavor, but sweet Italian sausage is great for a milder profile.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute sausage with plant-based crumbles or extra roasted vegetables.
Is this recipe healthy?
It’s a balanced meal with vegetables, lean protein, and whole ingredients suitable for healthy dinner recipes.