Autumn Dinner with Sausage

Autumn Dinner with Sausage is a delightful dish that perfectly captures the essence of the season. This savory combination of bow tie pasta, smoked sausage, roasted butternut squash, and Brussels sprouts brings warmth and comfort to your table. Ideal for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, this recipe stands out with its rich flavors and easy preparation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With a total time of only 55 minutes, you can whip up this delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of garlic butter sauce with roasted vegetables creates a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to impress.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect as a main course for autumn dinners or as a side dish for festive occasions, this recipe adapts to your needs.
• Nutritious Options: Packed with seasonal vegetables and protein from the sausage, this dish offers a balanced meal for everyone.
• One-Pan Wonder: Simplify cleanup by making this dish in just one skillet, allowing you to enjoy more time with family and friends.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Autumn Dinner with Sausage effortlessly, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can enhance your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large bowl
• Baking sheets
• Large pot
• High-sided cast-iron skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Bowl: Ideal for tossing ingredients together before roasting or cooking, ensuring even seasoning.
• High-Sided Cast-Iron Skillet: Perfect for sautéing sausage and mixing all ingredients in one pan while retaining heat effectively.

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

For the Pasta and Sauce

• 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. Prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 2: Roast the Butternut Squash

1. Toss cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
2. Spread the squash in a single layer on the baking sheet.
3. Roast for 15-20 minutes, checking at 15 minutes for doneness.

Step 3: Roast the Brussels Sprouts

1. Trim ends of Brussels sprouts and remove any yellow leaves.
2. Slice each sprout in half.
3. Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper; spread on another baking sheet.
4. Roast at 200°C for 20-30 minutes (can roast alongside butternut squash).

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
2. Add bow tie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain pasta and set aside.

Step 5: Sauté the Smoked Sausage

1. In a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat, add olive oil.
2. Slice cooked smoked sausage into coins; add to skillet.
3. Cook for about 5 minutes on one side until browned; flip and cook an additional 3 minutes.
4. Remove sausage from skillet; set aside.

Step 6: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add minced garlic; cook on low-medium heat for 1-2 minutes until softened.
2. Add butter; melt completely.
3. Add cooked pasta; toss thoroughly in garlic butter sauce.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.

Step 7: Combine Ingredients

Add roasted butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, cooked sausage, and fresh thyme to the skillet with pasta. Gently mix everything together to coat well in the flavors from the garlic butter sauce. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Enjoy your delicious Autumn Dinner with Sausage!

How to Serve Autumn Dinner with Sausage

This dish not only warms the heart but also offers a beautiful presentation. Serving your Autumn Dinner with Sausage can enhance its appeal and flavor profile.

Family Style

• Serve the pasta in a large bowl, allowing everyone to help themselves. This creates a cozy, communal dining experience.

Individual Plates

• Plate the pasta in individual bowls, garnishing with extra thyme leaves for a touch of elegance. This is perfect for formal gatherings.

With Fresh Bread

• Accompany the meal with crusty bread or garlic bread. The bread is great for sopping up any leftover garlic butter sauce.

Salad on the Side

• Pair your dish with a fresh green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. The crispness of the salad balances the rich flavors of the pasta.

How to Perfect Autumn Dinner with Sausage

To ensure your Autumn Dinner with Sausage turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables and high-quality sausage for enhanced flavor.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Aim for al dente pasta to maintain texture; it will continue cooking when mixed with the hot ingredients.
• Season Wisely: Taste as you go! Adjust seasoning to your preference for a more personalized dish.
• Make Ahead: Roast vegetables and cook pasta ahead of time. Combine everything just before serving for ease.
• Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to incorporate other seasonal vegetables like kale or carrots for added nutrition and color.

Best Side Dishes for Autumn Dinner with Sausage

A well-rounded meal includes complementary side dishes that elevate your Autumn Dinner with Sausage. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a perfect comforting side.

2. Roasted Root Vegetables
   A mix of carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes roasted until tender complements the flavors beautifully.

3. Cranberry Sauce
   A tart cranberry sauce adds a refreshing contrast to the savory sausage and buttery pasta.

4. Steamed Green Beans
   Crisp-tender green beans seasoned with lemon zest offer a bright pop of color and flavor.

5. Autumn Apple Salad
   Sliced apples mixed with walnuts and feta create a sweet-and-savory salad that pairs wonderfully.

6. Cornbread Muffins
   Soft cornbread muffins bring a hint of sweetness that balances the meal’s richness nicely.

7. Honey Glazed Carrots
   Sweet glazed carrots provide an appealing crunch and vibrant color on your plate.

8. Quinoa Pilaf
   A fluffy quinoa pilaf mixed with herbs adds extra nutrients and texture to round out your dinner.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be an adventure, but it’s easy to stumble. Here are some mistakes to watch out for when preparing your Autumn Dinner with Sausage.

• Skipping the prep: Failing to prep your ingredients before starting can lead to chaos in the kitchen. Chop your vegetables and measure your ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.

• Overcrowding the baking sheet: When roasting vegetables like butternut squash and Brussels sprouts, overcrowding can cause steaming rather than roasting. Spread them out in a single layer for that perfect golden-brown finish.

• Not seasoning adequately: Under-seasoning is a common pitfall. Make sure you taste as you go and adjust salt, pepper, and spices to enhance the overall flavor of your dish.

• Ignoring pasta timing: Cooking pasta too long can result in mushy noodles. Follow the package instructions closely for al dente pasta that holds up well in the dish.

• Forgetting about leftovers: If you have leftover Autumn Dinner with Sausage, don’t let it go to waste! Store it properly to enjoy later.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Freezing Autumn Dinner with Sausage

• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Autumn Dinner with Sausage

• Oven: Preheat to 180°C (350°F), cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about this recipe or need some extra tips, check out these FAQs!

What can I use instead of smoked sausage?

You can substitute smoked sausage with grilled chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option that still packs flavor.

Can I add more vegetables to my Autumn Dinner with Sausage?

Absolutely! Feel free to add seasonal vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes for more variety and nutrition.

How do I make this recipe vegetarian-friendly?

To make a vegetarian version of Autumn Dinner with Sausage, replace meat with plant-based sausage or omit it entirely. Add extra veggies for substance.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This dish stores well and is perfect for meal prep. Just follow the storage instructions above for best results.

What should I serve alongside this dish?

A simple green salad or crusty bread pairs nicely with your Autumn Dinner with Sausage, adding freshness and texture.

How spicy is this dish?

The level of spice largely depends on the type of sausage you choose. For mild heat, opt for regular smoked sausage; use spicy varieties for more kick!

Final Thoughts

This Autumn Dinner with Sausage is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or swapping out proteins based on your preferences. It’s an ideal one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. Give it a try!