Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach
Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach is a heartwarming dish that perfectly blends the sweetness of roasted butternut squash with savory Italian sausage and fresh spinach. This creamy pasta is not just a meal; it’s a cozy culinary experience that’s simple enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for entertaining. With vibrant colors and comforting flavors, every bite delivers warmth and satisfaction.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 cups, roasted)
- 8 oz Italian sausage (sweet or spicy)
- 4 cups fresh baby spinach
- 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh sage or thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- 1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Halve the butternut squash, scoop out seeds, drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast cut side down on a baking sheet for about 30-35 minutes until tender.
- 2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- 3. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned (about 5-7 minutes). Break apart while cooking.
- 4. Once the squash cools slightly, scoop the flesh into a blender. Add heavy cream, garlic, sage or thyme, salt, and pepper; blend until smooth.
- 5. Combine cooked sausage in the skillet with pasta and spinach. Pour in blended sauce; toss everything over low heat until warmed through.
- 6. Serve garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 350g)
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 33g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 90mg