Introduction to Autumn Dinner with Sausage
As the leaves start to change color and the air turns crisp, we naturally gravitate toward warm, hearty meals that make us feel cozy and satisfied. An Autumn Dinner with Sausage combines the rich flavors of smoked sausage with seasonal vegetables like Brussels sprouts and butternut squash, creating a dish that feels both indulgent and nourishing.
Why Choose Homemade Meals for Autumn?
Making homemade meals during autumn not only brings a sense of warmth to your kitchen but also allows you to control the ingredients and flavors to fit your tastes. Studies show that cooking at home can be healthier, saving on average 200 calories compared to restaurant meals (source). Plus, there's nothing quite like the aroma of roasted vegetables and savory sausage filling your home.
By opting to gather simple, fresh ingredients, you can whip up dishes that celebrate the season, making it easy to include in your weeknight rotation. This recipe for sausage, pasta, and roasted veggies is straightforward and perfect for young professionals looking to bring warmth and flavor to their dinner table. Get ready to savor that autumn spirit!
Ingredients for Autumn Dinner with Sausage
Roasted Butternut Squash
The star of your Autumn Dinner with Sausage is definitely the butternut squash. For the perfect roast, you’ll need about 3 cups, peeled, seeded, and cubed. Toss the squash in 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season with salt and pepper. The caramelization that happens during roasting brings out its natural sweetness and adds depth to your dish.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Don’t forget the Brussels sprouts! You’ll want to prepare about 12 ounces. Trim them, removing any yellow leaves, and halve them for even cooking. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and season well. Roasting sprouts enhances their flavor, making them crispy on the outside while remaining tender within.
Pasta Selection
For this dish, an 8-ounce package of bow tie pasta is ideal. The shape holds onto the sauce and adds a delightful texture, making each bite satisfying.
Sausage Options
Choose your favorite! I recommend 12 ounces of cooked smoked sausage, like cajun or andouille sausage, for that smoky flavor that complements the veggies perfectly.
Step-by-Step Preparation of Autumn Dinner with Sausage
Preparing an Autumn Dinner with Sausage is not just about cooking; it’s about enjoying the warmth and flavors that the season brings. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process, ensuring each component shines on your plate.
Preheat and roast the butternut squash
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. This temperature will help develop the sweet, caramelized flavors of your butternut squash. If you haven't worked with squash before, fear not! Begin by peeling, seeding, and cubing the squash. In a large bowl, toss the cubed squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and season generously with salt and pepper. Spread the squash evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure they're in a single layer. This allows them to roast evenly.
Pop them in the oven and set your timer for 15 to 30 minutes. Check at the 15-minute mark; they should be tender and slightly golden when done (you can find more tips on roasting butternut squash here).
Prepare and roast the Brussels sprouts
While your squash is roasting, it’s time to tackle the Brussels sprouts. Trim the ends of about 12 oz of Brussels sprouts and slice them in half. This helps them cook faster and allows the flavors to meld beautifully. In a separate bowl, toss them with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Spread these on another parchment-lined baking sheet. If your oven can handle it, consider roasting the Brussels sprouts alongside the squash to save time. Roast for 20 to 30 minutes, flipping them halfway to ensure even cooking.
Cook the pasta to perfection
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once bubbling, add 8 oz of bow tie pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes. Draining the pasta can be done while multitasking; keep an eye on your veggies to ensure nothing burns!
Sauté the sausage
As everything roasts and the pasta cooks, it’s time to infuse some flavor with the sausage. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Slice 12 oz of cooked smoked sausage into bite-sized coins and add them to the skillet.
Cook them until they’re browned—about 5 minutes on one side, then flip for another 3 minutes. Remove the sausage, and in the same pan, add 5 minced garlic cloves. Sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes, before introducing 2 tablespoons of butter.
Combine everything in garlic butter sauce
Now, it’s time for the grand finale! Add the drained pasta to your skillet, coating it thoroughly in the garlic butter sauce. Then, return the sausage to the mix, along with your deliciously roasted butternut squash and Brussels sprouts. A sprinkle of salt, pepper, and a touch of smoked paprika will elevate the flavors even more.
Finish it off with some fresh thyme for that autumnal essence. Toss and mix everything gently, making sure each ingredient is well coated and flavors meld together. Serve warm and enjoy the cozy flavors of your Autumn Dinner with Sausage!
This dish not only gets you into the fall spirit, but it’s also a fantastic way to nourish yourself with seasonal vegetables. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or impressing guests at your next gathering!
Variations on Autumn Dinner with Sausage
Switching to Turkey Sausage
If you’re looking to lighten up your Autumn Dinner with Sausage, consider swapping out traditional sausage for turkey sausage. This alternative maintains that hearty flavor while reducing the overall fat content. Plus, turkey sausage often comes in delicious varieties that can enhance the dish! Just remember to adjust the cooking time, as turkey sausage may need a bit longer to fully brown.
Adding Seasonal Vegetables
Get creative! Mixing in other seasonal vegetables can elevate your meal. Think of roasted carrots, kale, or even diced sweet potatoes—each brings a unique flavor and texture to your dish. You can find fresh seasonal veggies at local farmer's markets or grocery stores. It's not just about complementing the sausage; it's about infusing your dish with the vibrant colors and tastes of autumn. Celebrate the season by experimenting with what's available!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Autumn Dinner with Sausage
Ensuring Perfect Roasting Times
For your Autumn Dinner with Sausage, timing is everything! When roasting your butternut squash and Brussels sprouts, check for doneness between 15-30 minutes. Every oven is different, so peek at them around the 15-minute mark. You want a nice caramelization — a golden brown exterior means it’s cooked perfectly.
Maximizing Flavor with Seasonings
Don’t skimp on the seasonings! A splash of olive oil, salt, and pepper is just the beginning. Consider adding smoked paprika and fresh thyme to elevate flavors. Want a hint of sweetness? A drizzle of maple syrup over your veggies post-roast creates a fantastic contrast. For more seasoning inspiration, check out this great resource on herb pairings. Your Autumn Dinner with Sausage will truly shine with these thoughtful touches!
Serving Suggestions for Autumn Dinner with Sausage
Accompanying sides
To elevate your Autumn Dinner with Sausage, consider serving a warm, crusty bread alongside your main dish. Freshly baked rosemary focaccia is perfect for soaking up any leftover garlic butter sauce. A simple green salad with arugula, walnuts, and a tangy vinaigrette would also provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the pasta and sausage.
Pairing with refreshing drinks
Given the comforting profile of this dish, non-alcoholic options can be just as delightful. Sparkling apple cider or a warm spiced apple juice can evoke the essence of fall, making them excellent companions for your meal. For a refreshing twist, try unsweetened iced tea with a slice of lemon for a light and zesty finish. Explore more drink pairings here.
Enjoy your meal!
Time Breakdown for Autumn Dinner with Sausage
Preparation time
You'll need about 30 minutes to prep all the delicious ingredients for your Autumn Dinner with Sausage. This includes chopping your veggies and getting everything organized for cooking.
Cooking time
The actual cooking will take around 40 minutes. This includes roasting your butternut squash and Brussels sprouts, cooking the pasta, and sautéing the sausage to infuse those rich flavors.
Total time
In total, you’re looking at approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes from start to finish. Perfect timing to set the table and enjoy a heartwarming meal with friends or family!
While you're prepping, why not check out some tips on how to perfectly roast vegetables? The Kitchn offers great advice to enhance your cooking skills. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
Nutritional Facts for Autumn Dinner with Sausage
Calories
This hearty dish packs approximately 730 calories per serving, making it a satisfyingly filling meal for those autumn evenings when comfort food is necessary.
Protein
Each serving also provides about 22 grams of protein, thanks to the smoked sausage and nutrient-rich veggies. It's a great way to boost your daily intake while enjoying a warm meal.
Fiber
With 7 grams of fiber per serving, this autumn dinner helps support digestion and keeps you feeling full longer—just another reason to love this seasonal favorite!
For more tips on nutritious dinners, check out this guide to healthy eating from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
FAQs about Autumn Dinner with Sausage
Can I prepare this meal ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep the roasted butternut squash and Brussels sprouts a day ahead. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge. You can also cook the pasta in advance; just toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. When you're ready, combine everything in a skillet, add the garlic butter, and heat until warmed through. This makes a busy weeknight dinner a breeze!
What are the best types of sausage to use?
For your Autumn Dinner with Sausage, consider using smoked sausage or turkey sausage options. Varieties like cajun sausage or andouille sausage can add fantastic flavor, while a mild chicken sausage is perfect for those who prefer something less spicy. Feel free to experiment with your favorite types based on your taste preferences!
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover portions of this hearty dish can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three days. If you're looking to keep it fresh for longer, consider freezing individual servings. When reheating, a quick stovetop warm-up works wonders to retain the meal's deliciousness. For more tips on food storage, check out this guide from the USDA.
Conclusion on Autumn Dinner with Sausage
As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like an autumn dinner with sausage to warm the soul. This dish combines hearty ingredients that not only sustain you but also celebrate the flavors of the season. Perfect for cozy nights in or gatherings with friends, it's easy to make and deliciously satisfying. Enjoy the comfort of fall flavors!
Autumn Dinner with Sausage, Pasta, Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash
Equipment
- large bowl
- Baking sheet
- Cast Iron Skillet
- large pot
Ingredients
Roasted Butternut Squash
- 3 cups butternut squash peeled, seeded, cubed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- salt
- pepper
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
- 12 oz Brussels sprouts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- salt
- pepper
Pasta
- 8 oz bow tie pasta
Sausage
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 12 oz cooked smoked sausage such as cajun sausage, andouille sausage, or smoked sausage
- 5 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- salt to taste
- pepper to taste
- 0.25 teaspoon smoked paprika to taste
- fresh thyme to taste
Instructions
Roast Butternut Squash
- Preheat oven to 400 F. Make sure the butternut squash is peeled, seeded, and cubed.
- In a large bowl, toss cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the squash on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet in one layer, without overcrowding.
- Roast on the middle rack in the preheated oven at 400 F for about 15 to 20 minutes (maximum 30 minutes). Remove from oven.
- You can roast Brussels sprouts on the same baking sheet (if large enough) and at the same time as butternut squash.
Roast Brussels Sprouts
- Preheat oven to 400 F. Trim ends of Brussels sprouts and remove yellow leaves. Slice all Brussels sprouts in half.
- In a medium bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the Brussels sprouts on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet in one layer, without overcrowding.
- Roast on the middle rack in the preheated oven at 400 F for 20 or 30 minutes. Remove from oven.
Cook Pasta
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions. Drain.
Cook Sausage
- While you roast the veggies and cook the pasta, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large, high-sided cast-iron skillet on medium heat. Slice cooked sausage into coins and add to the skillet.
- Cook on medium heat for 5 minutes on one side, then flip over and cook for about 3 minutes on the other side. Remove sausage from skillet.
- To the same, now empty, cast-iron skillet, add minced garlic. Cook on low-medium heat for about 1 or 2 minutes or until the garlic softens.
- Add butter. Add cooked pasta and coat thoroughly with the garlic butter sauce on low-medium heat. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika to taste.
- Add roasted butternut squash, roasted Brussels sprouts, cooked sausage, and fresh snipped thyme to the skillet with pasta. Mix everything to coat the veggies with juices from the sausage and the garlic butter sauce. Season with more salt and pepper, and a small amount of smoked paprika, if desired.
- If you used a large skillet, everything should fit. If not, work in batches.
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