This creamy butternut squash pasta is a comforting dish that brings together sweet squash, juicy sausage, and fresh spinach. It’s healthy and tasty—what’s not to love?
Whenever I make this pasta, it feels like a cozy hug in a bowl. I always aim for extra spinach because it makes me feel like I’m eating my veggies—win-win! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butternut Squash: This gives the dish its creamy texture and sweet flavor. If you can’t find it, pumpkin or sweet potato can be good substitutions. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed!
Italian Sausage: Use mild or spicy sausages based on your taste. For a lighter option, turkey or chicken sausage works well. If you’re vegetarian, consider using plant-based sausage or mushrooms for a great umami flavor.
Fresh Spinach: Spinach adds color and nutrients. If fresh isn’t available, frozen spinach is a suitable option. Just be sure to thaw it and drain excess moisture before adding it to the dish.
Pasta: While bow-tie is fun, any pasta shape works. Penne, fusilli, or spaghetti can all be delicious alternatives.
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce rich and creamy. For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even a plant-based cream if you’re looking for a dairy-free version.
How Do You Get Perfectly Creamy Sauce for the Pasta?
Creating a creamy sauce requires patience and proper timing! Here’s how to ensure it turns out just right:
- After adding the heavy cream and Parmesan to the sausage mixture, keep the heat low. This helps prevent the cream from curdling.
- Stir continuously to combine everything smoothly. Gradually let it simmer for a few minutes to thicken, without boiling it.
- If your sauce is too thick, slowly incorporate the reserved pasta cooking water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
With these steps, you’ll achieve a velvety sauce that perfectly coats the pasta, making every bite delightful!
How to Make Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta Dish:
- 12 oz (340 g) bow-tie pasta (farfalle)
- 1 small butternut squash (about 2 cups), peeled and diced into small cubes
- 1 lb (450 g) Italian sausage, casings removed (mild or spicy as preferred)
- 3 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for roasting squash)
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1/2 tsp dried sage or 1 tsp fresh sage, chopped (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy butternut squash pasta takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30–35 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need around 45 minutes to enjoy this delicious dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Roast the Butternut Squash:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a mixing bowl, toss the diced butternut squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, along with some salt and pepper to taste. Spread the squash evenly on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for about 20–25 minutes. Make sure to turn it once halfway through so that it cooks evenly and gets nice and brown.
2. Cook the Pasta:
While the squash is roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bow-tie pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (cooked but still firm). Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Onion and Sausage:
In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the chopped onion and cook for about 3–4 minutes, or until it becomes translucent. Then, add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook the sausage until it’s browned and cooked through, which should take about 6–8 minutes. During the last minute, add in the minced garlic and sage (if using) to enhance the aroma.
4. Combine with Spinach and Squash:
Once the sausage is cooked, stir in the roasted butternut squash and fresh spinach. Cook everything together until the spinach wilts, which should take about 2 minutes.
5. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream along with the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir well to combine, and let the sauce simmer gently for 3–5 minutes, or until it slightly thickens. Keep an eye on it to avoid boiling!
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together so that the pasta is well-coated in the creamy sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
7. Season and Serve:
Finally, taste your dish and add extra salt and pepper if needed. Serve it hot, and feel free to garnish with extra Parmesan cheese or some fresh herbs for an extra touch!
Now, dig in and enjoy every delicious bite of this warm and creamy dish that’s perfect for any occasion!
FAQ for Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While bow-tie pasta is delightful, you can substitute it with any pasta shape you love, such as penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! To make it vegetarian, simply omit the Italian sausage and replace it with plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms for a similar texture and flavor. You can also increase the amount of spinach or add in other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
Can I Use Frozen Butternut Squash?
Yes! You can use frozen butternut squash. Just microwave it until thawed and warm it in the skillet before mixing in with the other ingredients. Keep in mind the cooking time may vary slightly since frozen squash is usually more tender.
