Autumn Dinner with Sausage

Autumn Dinner with Sausage is the perfect dish to warm you up during chilly evenings. This savory meal features bow tie pasta tossed with flavorful sausage, roasted butternut squash, and Brussels sprouts in a delightful garlic butter sauce. Not only is it hearty and satisfying, but it’s also an excellent choice for family dinners or gatherings. With its vibrant colors and comforting flavors, this dish will surely impress your guests while being easy to prepare!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavors: The combination of roasted vegetables and garlic butter sauce creates a warm, inviting taste that is perfect for autumn.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and minimal clean-up, this one-pan meal makes cooking a breeze.
• Versatile Ingredients: Swap out the smoked sausage for turkey or chicken for a lighter option or adjust the veggies based on your seasonal favorites.
• Nutritious & Filling: Packed with nutrients from squash and Brussels sprouts, this dinner is both healthy and satisfying.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a large batch ahead of time and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Getting your kitchen ready will help streamline the cooking process. Having the right tools makes all the difference in preparing your Autumn Dinner with Sausage.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cast-iron skillet
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast-iron skillet: Retains heat well, ensuring even cooking for the sausage and pasta.
• Baking sheets: Perfect for roasting vegetables evenly without overcrowding.
• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta to achieve that perfect al dente texture.

Ingredients

Savory bow tie pasta with smoked sausage, roasted butternut squash, and Brussels sprouts in a flavorful garlic butter sauce.

For the Roasted Vegetables

• 3 cups butternut squash, peeled, seeded, cubed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• salt and pepper to taste
• 340 g Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• salt and pepper to taste

For the Pasta Dish

• 225 g bow tie pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 340 g cooked smoked sausage(cajun, andouille, or regular smoked sausage)
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• salt and pepper to taste
• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
• fresh thyme leaves

How to Make Autumn Dinner with Sausage

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 200°C.

Step 2: Prepare Butternut Squash

Toss cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Spread it in a single layer on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet without overcrowding. Roast on the middle rack for 15-20 minutes, checking at 15 minutes for doneness.

Step 3: Roast Brussels Sprouts

Trim ends of Brussels sprouts and remove yellow leaves. Slice all Brussels sprouts in half. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them in a single layer on another parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Roast at 200°C for 20-30 minutes (this can be done simultaneously with the butternut squash).

Step 4: Cook Pasta

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.

Step 5: Sauté Sausage

Heat olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Slice sausage into coins and add them to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes on one side before flipping them over to cook for an additional 3 minutes. Remove sausage from the skillet and set aside.

Step 6: Create Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic. Cook on low-medium heat for about 1-2 minutes until softened. Add butter and let it melt completely. Then add cooked pasta to coat thoroughly with the garlic butter sauce while seasoning with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.

Step 7: Combine Everything

Add roasted butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, cooked sausage, and fresh thyme into the skillet with pasta. Gently mix everything together so that vegetables are coated in sausage juices and garlic butter sauce. Adjust seasoning as necessary with extra salt, pepper, or smoked paprika if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Autumn Dinner with Sausage!

How to Serve Autumn Dinner with Sausage

This autumn dinner with sausage is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your meal experience. Here are some creative suggestions for serving this flavorful pasta dish.

For a Cozy Family Meal

• Serve directly from the skillet for a casual dining experience. This allows everyone to help themselves and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors together.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta. The freshness balances the hearty flavors.

Add Crusty Bread

• Serve with slices of crusty bread or garlic bread. The bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover garlic butter sauce, making every bite delicious.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Top each serving with extra fresh thyme or parsley for added flavor and a pop of color. Fresh herbs elevate the dish visually and tastefully.

Offer Grated Cheese on the Side

• Provide grated Parmesan cheese or a dairy-free alternative for guests to sprinkle over their pasta. This adds a rich, savory dimension to each plate.

How to Perfect Autumn Dinner with Sausage

To ensure your autumn dinner with sausage reaches its full potential, consider these helpful tips:

• Choose Quality Sausage: Select smoked sausage that fits your flavor profile, such as cajun or turkey sausage, for the best taste.
• Use Seasonal Vegetables: Incorporate seasonal veggies like kale or carrots along with butternut squash and Brussels sprouts for added nutrition and color.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cook the bow tie pasta until al dente so it maintains its texture when mixed with the sauce.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and smoked paprika as needed before serving to ensure optimal flavor.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add other spices like crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick if you enjoy heat in your dishes.
• Make Ahead Options: Prepare components like roasted vegetables or cooked sausage ahead of time to streamline cooking on busy nights.

Best Side Dishes for Autumn Dinner with Sausage

Pairing side dishes with your autumn dinner can enhance the meal’s overall enjoyment. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Roasted Potatoes: Crispy on the outside and fluffy inside, these potatoes are seasoned perfectly to complement your main dish.
2. Autumn Vegetable Medley: A mix of roasted root vegetables like carrots and parsnips adds sweetness and color to your table.
3. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Rich and buttery mashed potatoes provide a comforting side that pairs beautifully with sausage flavors.
4. Sautéed Green Beans: Lightly sautéed green beans maintain their crunch while offering a fresh contrast to the heavier pasta dish.
5. Cranberry Sauce: A tangy homemade cranberry sauce brings brightness to each bite, balancing the savory elements of your main course.
6. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with cranberries and nuts provides a nutritious option that enhances the meal’s variety.
7. Roasted Cauliflower Steaks: Herb-seasoned cauliflower steaks offer a hearty yet healthy side that rounds out this autumn-inspired dinner nicely.
8. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins add warmth and comfort, perfect for soaking up flavors from both the pasta and sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Autumn Dinner with Sausage, avoid these common pitfalls to ensure a successful meal.

• Ignoring the timing: It’s essential to roast the vegetables and cook the pasta simultaneously. This ensures that everything is hot and ready to serve at the same time.
• Overcrowding the baking sheets: When roasting butternut squash and Brussels sprouts, spread them out in a single layer. Overcrowding leads to steaming instead of roasting, preventing those delicious caramelized flavors.
• Not seasoning adequately: Make sure to season each component as you go. Under-seasoned pasta or vegetables can lead to a bland dish. Taste and adjust seasoning for optimal flavor.
• Using low-quality sausage: The sausage is a key ingredient in this recipe. Choose a high-quality smoked sausage for the best flavor, as it dramatically impacts the overall taste of the dish.
• Neglecting fresh herbs: Fresh thyme adds a vital layer of flavor. Don’t skip this ingredient; it elevates your dish from ordinary to extraordinary.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing and refrigerating.

Freezing Autumn Dinner with Sausage

• Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
• Divide into portions for easy reheating later.

Reheating Autumn Dinner with Sausage

• Oven: Preheat to 180°C (350°F). Cover with foil and heat for about 25 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe container. Heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making an Autumn Dinner with Sausage.

Can I use different types of sausage?

Yes! You can substitute any cooked smoked sausage like turkey or chicken sausage based on your preference.

How can I customize my Autumn Dinner with Sausage?

Feel free to add other seasonal vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes for additional flavor and nutrition.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well, making it perfect for meal prep. Just follow storage instructions carefully.

What sides pair well with this dish?

A simple green salad or crusty bread would be great accompaniments to balance the richness of your dinner.

Final Thoughts

This Autumn Dinner with Sausage is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasonings based on personal preference. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for cozy evenings!