Autumn-Inspired Skillet Pasta Recipe
When the leaves start to change and a crispness fills the air, there’s nothing better than a warm, hearty meal to bring comfort to your table. This Autumn-Inspired Skillet Pasta captures all the essence of the season with its vibrant vegetables and savory sausage, making it an excellent choice for those cozy nights in. As a dedicated home cook, I’ve found this dish to be a favorite among family and friends, and I can’t wait to share it with you!
Why you’ll love this dish
What makes this skillet pasta so special? It’s a celebration of autumn’s bounty, combining nutty butternut squash and earthy Brussels sprouts with the hearty flavor of Italian sausage. This dish is not only comforting but also budget-friendly and quick to prepare—perfect for busy weeknight dinners or a fall-themed family brunch. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal that minimizes clean-up while delivering bold flavors in every bite.
"Absolutely delicious! This skillet pasta has become a staple in our home. The combination of sausage, squash, and Brussels sprouts is just perfect! – Emma K."
The cooking process explained
Creating this delightful Autumn-Inspired Skillet Pasta is simpler than you might think. With just a few ingredients and a short cooking time, you’ll have a flavorful dish ready to impress. Here’s the lowdown on how the process unfolds: first, cook the pasta, then sauté the sausage and veggies, and finally combine everything with a rich garlic butter sauce. You’ll enjoy every step of the way!
What you’ll need
To make this delicious pasta dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 8 ounces pasta (penne, farfalle, or similar short pasta)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage, sliced (mild or hot depending on preference)
- 2 cups Brussels sprouts, halved (trim and remove any loose outer leaves)
- 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed (about 1 small squash)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (plus extra for serving)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Feel free to swap out the sausage for a plant-based option or use different vegetables based on your preference or what you have on hand.
Step-by-step instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente according to package directions. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water, and set the pasta aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook, turning occasionally, until browned around the edges—about 5 to 7 minutes. Transfer the sausage to a plate.
- In the same skillet, add the halved Brussels sprouts, cut-side down if possible, along with the cubed butternut squash. Sauté, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and golden—around 10 to 15 minutes. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- While the vegetables finish, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant—about 1 to 2 minutes. Keep an eye on it so the garlic doesn’t burn.
- Return the sausage to the skillet with the vegetables. Add the drained pasta and pour the garlic butter over everything. Toss to combine and coat evenly.
- If the mixture seems dry, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until you achieve your desired consistency.
- Mix in the grated Parmesan, ensuring it melts into the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you’re looking for heat.
- Remove from heat. Garnish with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan. Serve immediately.
Best ways to enjoy it
To elevate your dining experience, consider serving your Autumn-Inspired Skillet Pasta with a simple side salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette or some warm crusty bread. You can also pair it with a glass of white wine or a refreshing apple cider to really embrace the fall flavors!
Storage and reheating tips
If you have leftovers (though they might not last long!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or additional butter to keep the pasta moist. You can also freeze this dish for up to 2 months; just ensure it’s completely cooled before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Helpful cooking tips
- For a deeper flavor, consider browning the sausage a little longer to develop those lovely caramelized bits.
- Don’t skip on reserving the pasta water—it’s liquid gold for adjusting the sauce’s consistency!
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, swap the sausage for mushrooms or roasted chickpeas.
Recipe variations
Feel free to mix it up! Here are some creative twists you might enjoy:
- Add a handful of spinach or kale for extra nutrients.
- Swap out butternut squash for sweet potatoes or another seasonal veggie.
- Use different types of cheese like feta or goat cheese for a unique flavor profile.
FAQ – Your questions answered
-
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare all components in advance, but for the best texture, it’s recommended to cook it just before serving. -
What pasta works best?
Short pasta shapes like penne and farfalle hold the sauce beautifully, but any pasta you have will work. -
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a lighter alternative, or for a vegetarian version, try using plant-based sausage. -
How do I store leftovers safely?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge and consume within 3 days. Always reheat thoroughly before eating. -
What can I substitute for Brussels sprouts?
Broccoli or green beans can be used in place of Brussels sprouts, providing a different flavor and texture without sacrificing health benefits.
Final thoughts
This Autumn-Inspired Skillet Pasta is a fantastic way to savor the flavors of the season while keeping your meal prep straightforward and enjoyable. I hope you give this recipe a try and let it warm your home as much as it has mine. Feel free to share your thoughts or any variations you’ve experimented with in the comments below! Enjoy your meal!
Autumn-Inspired Skillet Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the pasta until al dente according to package directions.
- Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water, and set the pasta aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the sliced sausage and cook, turning occasionally, until browned around the edges—about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Transfer the sausage to a plate.
- In the same skillet, add the halved Brussels sprouts and cubed butternut squash.
- Sauté, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and golden—around 10 to 15 minutes. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- While the vegetables finish, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant—about 1 to 2 minutes.
- Return the sausage to the skillet with the vegetables.
- Add the drained pasta and pour the garlic butter over everything.
- Toss to combine and coat evenly.
- If the mixture seems dry, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.
- Mix in the grated Parmesan, ensuring it melts into the sauce.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired.
- Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan.
- Serve immediately.