Irresistible Butternut Squash and Sausage Bake Recipe

Butternut squash and sausage bake is a culinary hug for your taste buds. Imagine the sweet, nutty aroma of roasted butternut squash mingling with the savory scent of sizzling sausage; it’s like a cozy campfire right in your kitchen. pair it with Tuscan White Bean Soup With every bite, you’ll experience a delightful contrast of textures that keeps you coming back for more. Whether it’s a chilly evening or just an ordinary Tuesday, this dish transforms any moment into a feast.

Now, let me take you back to my first attempt at making this delightful bake. I was trying to impress my friends at our weekly dinner party. Picture me, frantically chopping vegetables while dodging flying bits of squash—an epic battle ensued! But when the oven timer finally beeped, and we pulled out that bubbling masterpiece, it was all worth it. We laughed, we ate, and we probably consumed way too much wine. Trust me; this recipe will create memories just as delicious as the dish itself.

Ingredients for Butternut Squash and Sausage Bake

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Butternut Squash: Choose a firm one with smooth skin; it should feel heavy for its size.
• Italian Sausage: Use either spicy or mild based on your preference; both add incredible flavor.
• Red Onion: A sweet variety enhances the overall taste; chop it finely to mix well with other ingredients.
• Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic amplifies the dish’s aroma; two or three cloves should do nicely.
• Olive Oil: Opt for extra virgin for maximum flavor when roasting the vegetables.
• Fresh Thyme: Adds earthiness; fresh thyme gives a more vibrant taste than dried.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust to personal taste as you prepare.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Butternut Squash and Sausage Bake

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab a baking dish and spray it lightly with nonstick cooking spray to prevent any sticking tragedies.

Step 2: Prepare Your Squash

Peel and cube the butternut squash into bite-sized pieces. Don’t worry about making them perfect—just aim for uniformity so they cook evenly.

Step 3: Sauté Your Sausage

In a skillet over medium heat, add your Italian sausage. Cook until browned and crumbly, about 5-7 minutes. You might want to channel your inner chef by breaking it up with a spatula while cooking!

Step 4: Combine Everything

In your prepared baking dish, toss together the cubed butternut squash, sautéed sausage, chopped red onion, minced garlic, olive oil, fresh thyme sprigs, salt, and pepper until everything is well coated.

Step 5: Bake Away

Spread the mixture evenly in the baking dish. Pop it into the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes or until the squash is tender and lightly caramelized—your kitchen will smell divine!

Step 6: Serve It Up

Once baked to perfection, remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. Transfer to plates (or just dive straight from the dish) and enjoy this comforting meal that’s sure to impress.

With each bite of this Butternut Squash and Sausage Bake, you’ll find yourself smiling—because who knew comfort food could be so easy? Perfect for family gatherings or simply indulging yourself on a quiet night in, this recipe checks all the boxes! accompany it with Butter Braised Cabbage.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven while you chop the butternut squash and sausage. Sear the sausage in a hot pan to develop flavor, then mix it with the squash and seasonings before transferring everything to the oven for roasting.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in other seasonal vegetables like Brussels sprouts or sweet potatoes. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, to really make this butternut squash and sausage bake your own. serve alongside Miso Glazed Brussels Sprouts. For more inspiration, check out this Spicy Chorizo Sweet Potato Chili recipe.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring that delightful crispiness remains intact.

Sometimes I think my friends come over just for this dish! One memorable dinner had everyone raving about how comforting and delicious it was you’d think I was a gourmet chef instead of just a home cook.

FAQs:

What is the best way to prepare butternut squash for a bake?

Preparing butternut squash for a bake involves peeling, seeding, and cutting it into cubes. Start by using a sharp knife to slice off the top and bottom of the squash. Next, peel the skin with a vegetable peeler. Cut it in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds with a spoon. Finally, chop the flesh into even cubes to ensure uniform cooking. This preparation method enhances its flavor and texture when mixed with sausage and other ingredients in your butternut squash and sausage bake.

Can I use different types of sausage for the bake?

Absolutely! While traditional recipes often call for Italian sausage, you can experiment with various types. Consider using chicken sausage for a lighter dish or spicy sausage for an extra kick. Vegetarian or plant-based sausages are also great options if you’re looking for meatless alternatives. Regardless of your choice, ensure that the flavor profile complements the sweetness of the butternut squash in your butternut squash and sausage bake.

How long does it take to cook butternut squash and sausage bake?

Cooking time for a butternut squash and sausage bake typically ranges from 35 to 45 minutes at 400°F (200°C). The actual duration may vary based on your oven’s efficiency and the size of your squash cubes. It’s essential to check that both the squash is tender and the sausage is fully cooked before serving. This ensures that you enjoy a flavorful dish that combines perfectly roasted vegetables with savory sausage in your butternut squash and sausage bake.

Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time for convenience. You can chop the butternut squash and mix it with sausage along with other ingredients, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to eat, simply pop it into the oven as directed in your recipe. This makes it easy to have a delicious meal ready quickly while enjoying all the flavors of your butternut squash and sausage bake.

Conclusion for Butternut Squash and Sausage Bake:

In conclusion, making a butternut squash and sausage bake is simple and rewarding. By following straightforward preparation steps, you can create a comforting dish that brings together sweet squash and savory sausage flavors. Experimenting with different sausages adds versatility to this recipe, allowing you to cater to personal preferences. Whether enjoyed fresh or made ahead, this dish is sure to impress family and friends alike. Embrace this delightful recipe as part of your culinary repertoire!

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Butternut Squash and Sausage Bake

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• Author: Clare Schmidt
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Butternut Squash and Sausage Bake is a comforting dish that beautifully blends the sweet, nutty flavor of roasted butternut squash with savory Italian sausage. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday feasts, featuring vibrant colors and delightful textures that will warm your kitchen and your heart. With minimal prep time and hassle-free cooking, this bake transforms simple ingredients into a satisfying meal that your family will love.

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Ingredients

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• 4 cups butternut squash, cubed
• 1 pound Italian sausage (spicy or mild)
• 1 medium red onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Peel and cube the butternut squash into bite-sized pieces.
3. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned and crumbled (about 5-7 minutes).
4. In the greased baking dish, combine the butternut squash, cooked sausage, chopped onion, minced garlic, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Spread the mixture evenly and bake for 30-35 minutes until the squash is tender and caramelized.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 50mg