A cozy fall pasta dish with roasted squash, browned sausage, herbs, and Parmesan—comforting, savory, and ready in under 45 minutes.
12 oz short pasta (rigatoni, penne, etc.)
3 cups cubed butternut squash
2 tbsp olive oil (plus more for sautéing)
Salt and pepper
1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp fresh sage (or ½ tsp dried)
½ tsp thyme
¼–½ cup reserved pasta water or cream
¼ cup grated Parmesan, plus more for serving
Roast squash at 425°F with olive oil, salt, and pepper for 25–30 min.
Cook pasta in salted water. Reserve ½ cup pasta water and drain.
Brown sausage in a skillet until crisp. Remove and set aside.
In the same pan, sauté onion for 5–6 min, then add garlic and herbs.
Add sausage, roasted squash, and pasta. Toss with cheese and pasta water or cream.
Mix gently until heated through. Serve topped with Parmesan.
Use gluten-free pasta if needed.
Add spinach or kale for extra greens.
For a creamy version, stir in ½ cup cream.