Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach That WOWs

Have you ever craved a dinner that wraps you up like a warm blanket on a chilly evening? That’s exactly what this creamy butternut squash pasta with sausage and spinach delivers – comfort in a bowl that doesn’t skimp on nutrition. I discovered this recipe three years ago when my farmers’ market was overflowing with butternut squash, and I was desperate for something beyond soup. Since then, it’s become my go-to fall dinner when the days get shorter and my family craves something substantial yet not too heavy.

This creamy butternut squash pasta pairs the sweet earthiness of squash with savory Italian sausage and fresh spinach, creating a sauce that clings beautifully to pasta without relying on heavy cream. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you look like a kitchen genius while actually being remarkably simple to pull together – even on a busy weeknight when you’re juggling homework help and household chores.

Ingredients for Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach

Creamy butternut squash pasta with sausage and spinach starts with quality ingredients that work together to create layers of flavor. Here’s everything you’ll need to make this cozy fall dinner idea:

• 1 medium butternut squash (about 2-3 pounds), peeled and cubed
• 1 pound pasta (rigatoni, penne, or farfalle work best)
• 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or hot, depending on preference)
• 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• 1/4 cup mascarpone or cream cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Red pepper flakes (optional)

Don’t eat pork? Turkey or chicken sausage works wonderfully in this healthy creamy pasta. For a vegetarian version, swap the sausage for mushrooms sautéed with a dash of soy sauce for umami depth. If you’re dairy-free, nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan, and cashew cream works beautifully instead of mascarpone.

Timing

• Prep time: 20 minutes (including peeling and cubing the squash)
• Cook time: 35 minutes
• Total time: 55 minutes

This creamy butternut squash pasta recipe comes together in under an hour, which is about 15 minutes faster than traditional cream-based pasta sauces that require reducing heavy cream. The hands-on time is mostly front-loaded in the prep work, giving you time to tidy up while the squash roasts.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach

1. Prepare the Butternut Squash

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the peeled and cubed butternut squash with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and edges begin to caramelize.
4. Let cool slightly before transferring to a blender or food processor.

Pro tip: For easier peeling, poke holes in the butternut squash with a fork and microwave for 2 minutes. This softens the skin just enough to make peeling much simpler!

2. Cook the Pasta and Prepare the Sauce Base

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.
2. While pasta cooks, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Remove sausage from casings if necessary and add to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
6. Cook until sausage is browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes.

3. Create the Creamy Butternut Squash Sauce

1. Place the roasted butternut squash in a blender or food processor.
2. Add chicken broth, dried sage, and nutmeg.
3. Blend until smooth and velvety.
4. Pour the butternut squash puree into the skillet with the sausage mixture.
5. Stir in the mascarpone or cream cheese until melted and incorporated.
6. Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce is creamy and well-combined.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Bring It All Together

1. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.
2. Add the drained pasta directly to the sauce in the skillet.
3. Fold in the fresh spinach and stir until it wilts from the heat of the sauce.
4. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
5. Sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes if desired.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 520
• Protein: 23g
• Carbohydrates: 65g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 6g
• Vitamin A: 230% of daily value (thanks to the butternut squash)
• Iron: 15% of daily value (from the spinach and pasta)

This creamy butternut squash pasta with sausage and spinach offers a more balanced nutritional profile than traditional cream-based pasta dishes, with the butternut squash providing beta-carotene and fiber, while spinach adds iron and vitamins.

Equipment Needed for Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach

• Large baking sheet
• Large pot for cooking pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan (12-inch is ideal)
• Blender or food processor
• Sharp chef’s knife for cutting squash
• Vegetable peeler
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Cheese grater
• Measuring cups and spoons

A heavy-bottomed skillet is particularly helpful for this creamy butternut squash pasta recipe as it distributes heat evenly and prevents the sauce from burning.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach

• It’s the perfect balance of comforting and nutritious – you get the satisfaction of a creamy pasta dish with added vegetables and protein.
• The sauce reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep or next-day lunches.
• Kids typically love the slightly sweet, creamy sauce (and might not even realize they’re eating vegetables!).
• It’s endlessly customizable – add mushrooms for extra umami, swap in kale for spinach, or try different protein options.
• The vibrant orange sauce makes for a stunning presentation that’s perfect for casual dinner parties or special family meals.

For more cozy fall dinner ideas, check out our autumn recipe collection on Harmony Meal!

Healthier Alternatives for Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach

Want to adjust this recipe to fit your dietary needs? Here are some simple swaps that maintain the soul of this creamy butternut squash pasta:

• Gluten-free: Substitute your favorite gluten-free pasta. Brown rice or chickpea pasta holds up particularly well with this hearty sauce.
• Dairy-free: Replace the mascarpone with cashew cream (blend 1/2 cup soaked cashews with 1/4 cup water until smooth) and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
• Lower-carb: Reduce the pasta by half and add 2 cups of cauliflower florets (roast them alongside the butternut squash). Or try our keto-friendly pasta alternatives.
• Extra protein: Add a can of drained white beans for a protein boost that complements the creaminess of the sauce.
• Vegetarian: Replace the sausage with 8 ounces of cremini mushrooms and 1 tablespoon of soy sauce or tamari for umami depth.

Serving Suggestions for Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach

This creamy butternut squash pasta recipe shines as a one-dish meal, but if you’re looking to round out your dinner table:

• A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette provides a bright, peppery contrast to the rich pasta.
• Garlic bread or a crusty whole grain loaf is perfect for sopping up extra sauce.
• For wine pairing, try a medium-bodied white like Viognier or a light red like Pinot Noir that won’t overpower the dish.
• During the holidays, this pasta makes a wonderful side dish alongside roasted turkey or ham.
• For a festive presentation, serve in a hollowed-out roasted butternut squash half for a stunning centerpiece.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach

• Underroasting the squash: The caramelization that happens during roasting adds depth to the sauce. Don’t rush this step by boiling instead.
• Overcooking the pasta: Since the pasta will continue cooking slightly when added to the hot sauce, aim for al dente or even 30 seconds under your package directions.
• Adding cold dairy: Let mascarpone or cream cheese come to room temperature before adding to prevent a broken sauce.
• Not seasoning in layers: Season the squash before roasting, taste the sauce before adding pasta, and adjust final seasoning at the end.
• Forgetting to reserve pasta water: This starchy liquid is your secret weapon for adjusting sauce consistency without diluting flavor.

Storing Tips for Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach

This easy pasta with sausage and spinach keeps beautifully, making it perfect for meal planning:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making next-day lunch something to look forward to!
• Freezing: While the texture of the pasta may change slightly, the sauce freezes well. Consider making extra sauce only and freezing in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Add a splash of water or broth when reheating to refresh the sauce. Warm gently over medium-low heat on the stovetop, or microwave at 50% power, stirring occasionally.
• Meal prep idea: Prepare the butternut squash sauce ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Cook pasta and sausage fresh when ready to serve.

For more ideas on weekly meal planning, visit our meal prep guides at Harmony Meal.

Conclusion

This creamy butternut squash pasta with sausage and spinach represents the best of comfort food – satisfying and rich while still packing nutritional value. The sweet earthiness of butternut squash creates a velvety sauce that hugs every pasta curve, while Italian sausage adds savory depth and spinach brings color and nutrients to the party.

What I love most about this dish is how it bridges the gap between “special occasion” and “weeknight practical.” It feels indulgent enough for company but comes together easily enough for a Tuesday night dinner. Plus, the vibrant orange color makes even the most ordinary evening feel a little more special.

I’d love to know if you try this creamy butternut squash pasta recipe! Did you stick to the classic version or make it your own with substitutions? Drop a comment below or tag @HarmonyMeal on social media with your creations. And if you’re looking for more seasonal pasta dishes, check out our complete pasta collection for year-round inspiration.

FAQs About Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach

Can I use pre-cut butternut squash to save time?
Absolutely! Pre-cut squash works perfectly in this creamy butternut squash pasta recipe. You’ll need about 4 cups of cubed squash. Just check that the pieces are relatively even in size for consistent roasting.

Is there a way to make this creamy pasta dish ahead for a dinner party?
Yes! Prepare the sauce completely up to 2 days ahead. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce, cook fresh pasta, and combine. Add a splash of pasta water to revive the sauce if needed.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
You can substitute frozen spinach, but be sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out excess moisture before adding to the sauce. Use about 1/2 cup of thawed, drained frozen spinach to replace the 3 cups fresh.

What’s the best pasta shape for this sausage pasta recipe?
Shapes that catch and hold sauce work best—think rigatoni, penne, orecchiette, or farfalle. Whole wheat or legume-based pastas add nutrition and pair beautifully with the earthy sauce.

Can this recipe be made in an Instant Pot or slow cooker?
While the traditional method develops the best flavor, you can adapt for Instant Pot by sautéing the sausage, onions, and garlic first, then adding cubed squash and broth. Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes, then blend with remaining ingredients. For slow cooker versions and more time-saving techniques, check out our kitchen shortcuts guide.

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