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As the leaves begin to change and a crispness fills the air, there’s an undeniable shift in our culinary cravings. Autumn beckons us to indulge in hearty, comforting meals that celebrate the bounty of the season. One dish that perfectly encapsulates this sentiment is the Autumn Harvest Pasta Delight. This recipe not only showcases the vibrant flavors of seasonal ingredients but also provides a warm, satisfying experience that is ideal for family dinners or gatherings with friends.

Roasted Butternut Squash and Sausage Pasta

Celebrate the flavors of autumn with this delicious Autumn Harvest Pasta Delight. This comforting dish features tender pasta, roasted butternut squash, and savory Italian sausage, all enveloped in a creamy sauce. With fresh herbs and the richness of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, every bite is a warm hug for your taste buds. Perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends, this recipe brings the essence of fall to your table. Enjoy the season’s bounty in a dish that’s both satisfying and nourishing.
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Ingredients
  

1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed (about 4 cups)

2 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and pepper, to taste

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

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 small onion, diced

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

12 ounces pasta (penne or rigatoni work well)

1 cup vegetable or chicken broth

1/2 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Extra Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions
 

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

    Roast Butternut Squash: Spread the cubed butternut squash on a baking sheet. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and lightly caramelized, stirring halfway through.

      Cook Sausage: While the squash is roasting, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes until softened. Add the sausage and cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a wooden spoon (about 5-7 minutes). Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, and red pepper flakes, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

        Cook Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

          Combine Ingredients: Add the roasted butternut squash to the sausage mixture in the skillet. Pour in the broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes to meld the flavors. If the mixture is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

            Mix Pasta: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss everything together. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, adjusting seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

              Serve: Divide the pasta onto plates, garnishing each serving with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

                Enjoy: Enjoy your flavorful and hearty Roasted Butternut Squash and Sausage Pasta, perfect for an autumn dinner!

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