There’s something magical about the moment summer’s vibrant energy softens into the cozy embrace of fall. The air gets crisper, the leaves start to turn, and my kitchen inevitably becomes a sanctuary for warm, comforting flavors. It’s during this seasonal shift that my family starts requesting the dishes that feel like a hug in a bowl, and this Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach is always at the top of the list. It’s the ultimate one-pot wonder that manages to feel both decadent and wholesome, a true celebration of autumn’s best produce.
This isn’t just another pasta recipe; it’s a complete, balanced meal that comes together in one skillet, meaning less time cleaning and more time enjoying. The sweet, nutty squash creates a velvety sauce without a ton of heavy cream, the savory sausage adds a hearty depth, and the spinach wilts down into a vibrant, nutritious green. It’s the kind of dinner that makes a busy weeknight feel special. If you’re looking for other comforting pasta dishes, you must try our incredibly easy Crockpot Ravioli Lasagna for another set-it-and-forget-it meal.
Table of Contents
Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach Ingredients
This creamy butternut squash pasta with sausage and spinach comes alive with a simple list of ingredients that work in perfect harmony. You’ll be amazed at how these everyday items transform into something truly special.
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed (mild or hot, based on your preference)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups cubed butternut squash (about 1 small squash, or use pre-cubed for a shortcut)
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half for a lighter option
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- ½ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 8 ounces short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Smart Substitutions:
- Sausage: Use ground chicken, turkey, or a plant-based sausage alternative.
- Cream: For a dairy-free version, full-fat coconut milk creates a wonderfully rich sauce.
- Pasta: Any short pasta will work. For a gluten-free meal, use your favorite GF pasta.
- Spinach: Kale or Swiss chard are great sturdy greens, just chop them finely and add a few minutes earlier to wilt.
Your Recipe Timeline
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Yes, you read that right! This entire, impressive meal is on your table in just 30 minutes, making it about 40% faster than many other baked pasta dishes.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta
Let’s walk through the simple process of building this incredible one-pot meal. The key is layering the flavors right in the same pan.
Brown the Sausage: In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until it’s nicely browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the sausage from the skillet, leaving about a tablespoon of drippings behind.
Sauté the Aromatics: Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for just 30 more seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
Cook the Squash and Pasta: Add the cubed butternut squash, dried sage, nutmeg, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then stir in the uncooked pasta. The liquid should just about cover the pasta and squash.
Simmer to Perfection: Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 12-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta should become al dente, and the butternut squash should be tender enough to mash easily with a fork.
Create the Creamy Sauce: Once the pasta and squash are cooked, use the back of your spoon or a potato masher to gently mash about half of the squash cubes right in the pan. This is the secret to the luxuriously thick, creamy sauce without any flour or roux!
Finish the Dish: Return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Add the fresh spinach in handfuls, stirring until it wilts into the warm pasta, which will only take a minute or two. Turn off the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce. Season generously with salt and black pepper to your liking.
A Look at the Nutrition
This dish is a satisfying balance of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. Butternut squash is a powerhouse of Vitamin A and antioxidants, while the spinach adds iron and fiber. The Italian sausage provides a solid protein base to keep you full. A single serving is approximately 550-600 calories, with a good balance of macros to fuel your evening.
Equipment You’ll Need
- A large, deep skillet with a lid or a Dutch oven (this is essential for the one-pot method)
- A sturdy wooden spoon or spatula
- A sharp chef’s knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta
- One-Pot Wonder: From stovetop to tabletop, you’ll only have one pan to wash. This is a game-changer for busy nights.
- Cozy & Comforting: The combination of sweet squash, savory sausage, and creamy sauce is the very definition of comfort food.
- Sneakily Nutritious: Packed with vegetables, it’s a meal that feels indulgent but is packed with vitamins from the squash and spinach.
- Incredibly Versatile: Easily adapt it to what you have on hand or to meet different dietary needs with simple swaps.
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters are won over by the creamy sauce and familiar pasta. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Healthier Alternatives for Your Pasta
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable. For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and lean chicken or turkey sausage. To make it gluten-free, simply swap the pasta for your favorite GF brand—the sauce is naturally gluten-free! If you’re a fan of creamy, satisfying soups, our Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup offers a similar comfort in a bowl.
Serving Your Creamy Pasta Creation
This dish is a complete meal in a bowl, but it’s wonderful with a simple side salad with a sharp vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a true feast, serve it with a slice of crusty, warm bread to soak up every last bit of the creamy sauce. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan and a few fresh sage leaves on top make it look restaurant-worthy. If you enjoy the savory pairing of sausage and comforting carbs, our Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage is another fantastic option for a hearty dinner.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Pasta: Keep a close eye during the simmering stage. The pasta will continue to cook a bit even after the heat is off, so aim for al dente.
- Skipping the Mashing Step: Don’t forget to mash some of the squash! This is what naturally thickens the sauce and gives it that incredible creamy texture.
- Using a Skillet That’s Too Small: You need a large, deep skillet to comfortably fit all the ingredients and liquid. A Dutch oven is perfect for this.
- Adding the Spinach Too Early: Only stir in the spinach at the very end, after the heat is off. The residual heat is plenty to wilt it perfectly without making it slimy.
Storing Your Leftovers
This pasta stores beautifully, making it a fantastic make-ahead option. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or in a skillet on the stove, adding a small splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Your New Go-To Fall Dinner
This Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach is more than just a recipe; it’s a simple, reliable path to a delicious and comforting dinner that everyone will love. It captures the very best of fall in a single, easy-to-make skillet. The creamy sauce, hearty sausage, and tender pasta create a harmony of flavors and textures that will have you coming back for seconds.
I truly hope this recipe becomes a cherished favorite in your home, just like it is in mine. If you’re looking for another seasonal pasta dish, our simple Pumpkin Pasta is a must-try, and for a richer, risotto-style meal, don’t miss our Pumpkin Risotto.
I’d love to hear how it turned out for you! Leave a comment below and share your experience. And don’t forget to tag @Harmonymeal on Pinterest so we can see your beautiful creations
FAQs about Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach
How do you make the sauce for creamy butternut squash pasta?
The creamy sauce is typically made by roasting or simmering butternut squash until tender, then blending it with ingredients like vegetable or chicken broth, a touch of cream (heavy cream, half-and-half, or coconut milk), and seasonings such as sage, nutmeg, garlic, and Parmesan cheese.
Can I prepare butternut squash pasta ahead of time?
While you can prepare components like the roasted butternut squash puree and cooked sausage ahead, it’s best to assemble and combine the pasta with the sauce just before serving. This prevents the pasta from absorbing too much sauce and becoming mushy.
What type of sausage is best for butternut squash pasta?
Sweet or mild Italian sausage (pork or chicken) is a popular choice, as its fennel and herb notes complement the squash beautifully. Chorizo can add a smoky, spicy kick, while a mild bratwurst could offer a different savory profile.
How do you prevent spinach from becoming soggy in pasta?
To avoid soggy spinach, add it to the pasta dish at the very end of cooking, after the sauce has been combined with the pasta. The residual heat will wilt the spinach perfectly, preserving its texture and vibrant color without releasing excess water.
Can I use frozen butternut squash in this pasta dish?
Yes, frozen butternut squash works well! You can roast it directly from frozen or thaw it first. If using frozen puree, simply warm it through with the other sauce ingredients. Ensure any excess water from thawing is drained if roasting.
How do you store and reheat creamy butternut squash pasta?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess if the sauce has thickened.
Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta with Sausage and Spinach
This creamy butternut squash pasta with sausage and spinach is the ultimate one-pot wonder that comes together in just 30 minutes. Sweet squash creates a velvety sauce, savory sausage adds depth, and fresh spinach provides vibrant nutrition in this complete, comforting fall meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed (mild or hot, based on your preference)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups cubed butternut squash (about 1 small squash, or use pre-cubed for a shortcut)
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half for a lighter option
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- ½ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 8 ounces short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Brown the Sausage: In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until it’s nicely browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the sausage from the skillet, leaving about a tablespoon of drippings behind.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for just 30 more seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
- Cook the Squash and Pasta: Add the cubed butternut squash, dried sage, nutmeg, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then stir in the uncooked pasta. The liquid should just about cover the pasta and squash.
- Simmer to Perfection: Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 12-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta should become al dente, and the butternut squash should be tender enough to mash easily with a fork.
- Create the Creamy Sauce: Once the pasta and squash are cooked, use the back of your spoon or a potato masher to gently mash about half of the squash cubes right in the pan. This is the secret to the luxuriously thick, creamy sauce without any flour or roux!
- Finish the Dish: Return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Add the fresh spinach in handfuls, stirring until it wilts into the warm pasta, which will only take a minute or two. Turn off the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce. Season generously with salt and black pepper to your liking.
Notes
Smart Substitutions: Sausage: Use ground chicken, turkey, or plant-based sausage. Cream: For dairy-free, use full-fat coconut milk. Pasta: Any short pasta works; use gluten-free for GF option. Spinach: Kale or Swiss chard work well. Storage: Refrigerate in airtight container for up to 4 days. Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat with splash of broth or cream to loosen sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 575
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
💬 Let’s Stay Connected!
For daily recipes, kitchen tips, and exclusive content, follow me on:
👉 Facebook for behind-the-scenes & community fun
👉 Pinterest for visual inspiration & meal ideas
👉 X (Twitter) for quick tips & trending recipes
📲 Join the flavor journey, your next favorite recipe is just a follow away!
