Irresistible Fusilli with Pumpkin and Sausage Recipe

There’s a special kind of magic that happens when you combine the earthy sweetness of pumpkin with the savory allure of sausage, all tangled up in delightful fusilli. Picture this: a warm bowl of pasta, steam swirling like a cozy hug, rich and inviting aromas wafting through your kitchen, promising a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. That’s the essence of fusilli with pumpkin and sausage—comfort food that makes even the most mundane days feel like a feast. For more inspiration, check out this Irresistible Creamy Lemon Shrimp Pasta recipe.

Now, let me take you back to my first encounter with this dish. It was a chilly autumn evening, and I was attempting to impress my friends with my culinary skills (or lack thereof). As I stirred the bubbling pot, laughter filled the air, and before I knew it, we had an unforgettable dinner party. This dish is not just about feeding the belly; it’s about creating memories that make you laugh until your sides ache. So grab your apron and let’s dive into this flavor-packed adventure!

Ingredients for Fusilli with Pumpkin and Sausage

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

• Fusilli Pasta: This twisty pasta shape holds onto sauces beautifully, ensuring each bite bursts with flavor.
• Pumpkin Puree: Use canned puree for convenience or homemade for that extra touch of love; either way adds creamy richness.
• Sausage: Choose Italian sausage for a spicy kick; sweet or mild varieties work well too depending on your preference. For more inspiration, check out this Spicy Chorizo Sweet Potato Chili recipe.
• Onion: A medium onion adds depth; sauté it until golden brown to enhance its sweetness.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves infuse the dish with aromatic goodness; never underestimate garlic’s ability to elevate flavors!
• Spinach: Fresh spinach adds color and nutrition; toss it in at the end for a pop of freshness.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan on top for a salty finish that brings everything together beautifully.

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

How to Make Fusilli with Pumpkin and Sausage

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add fusilli pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside while you work your culinary magic.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat, add your choice of sausage (casings removed) and cook until browned and crumbly, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally so nothing sticks—unless you’re into that whole “charred” look.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

Add chopped onion to the skillet with the sausage. Sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then throw in minced garlic and let it sizzle for an additional minute—your kitchen will smell divine!

Step 4: Add Pumpkin

Pour in pumpkin puree along with a splash of chicken broth (or veggie broth if you want to keep things plant-friendly). Stir well to combine all those glorious flavors! Let it simmer gently for about five minutes.

Step 5: Incorporate Spinach

Toss in fresh spinach now—watch it wilt beautifully as you stir everything together! Allow it to cook down for another couple of minutes while you contemplate life choices over pasta.

Step 6: Combine & Serve

Finally, gently fold cooked fusilli into the skillet mixture until well combined. Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving hot! Transfer to plates and drizzle with extra olive oil if feeling fancy.

Now sit back and enjoy your creation! You’ve officially made fusilli with pumpkin and sausage—a dish bursting with heartwarming flavors that’ll have everyone asking for seconds (and maybe thirds!).

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the sausage until browned, then set it aside. In the same pan, sauté garlic and pumpkin until tender. Meanwhile, boil your fusilli according to package instructions. Combine everything together with a splash of cream for a creamy finish.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out sausage for turkey or vegetarian options. Add spinach or kale for extra greens, or sprinkle some feta cheese for a tangy twist. Finish with fresh herbs like sage or thyme for added flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to revive the creamy sauce.

A friend once told me this dish reminded her of family gatherings during fall, where everyone would gather around the table, sharing laughs and seconds. It really captures that warm, communal spirit!

FAQs :

What ingredients do I need for Fusilli with Pumpkin and Sausage?

To prepare Fusilli with Pumpkin and Sausage, you will need fusilli pasta, fresh pumpkin, Italian sausage, garlic, onion, olive oil, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Fresh herbs like sage or thyme can enhance the flavor. spiced cardamom pumpkin roll Make sure to select high-quality sausages for the best taste. This dish combines savory and sweet elements beautifully, making it a perfect fall recipe.

How long does it take to cook Fusilli with Pumpkin and Sausage?

Cooking Fusilli with Pumpkin and Sausage typically takes about 30 to 40 minutes. Start by roasting the pumpkin while you cook the pasta. The sausage cooks quickly in a skillet alongside garlic and onions. Tuscan white bean soup Combining everything together takes just a few more minutes. This quick preparation makes this dish an excellent choice for busy weeknights.

Can I substitute any ingredients in this recipe?

Yes, you can customize Fusilli with Pumpkin and Sausage to suit your taste or dietary needs. For a vegetarian option, replace sausage with plant-based alternatives or hearty mushrooms. You can also swap pumpkin for butternut squash or use whole wheat fusilli for added nutrition. Feel free to adjust spices according to your preference; nutmeg or red pepper flakes can add a nice kick.

Is Fusilli with Pumpkin and Sausage suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Fusilli with Pumpkin and Sausage is great for meal prep. Cooked pasta and sauce can be stored separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat them together on the stovetop or microwave before serving. This makes it easy to enjoy leftovers throughout the week without sacrificing flavor.

Conclusion for Fusilli with Pumpkin and Sausage :

In conclusion, Fusilli with Pumpkin and Sausage is a delightful blend of flavors that captures the essence of autumn cooking. The combination of tender pasta, savory sausage, and sweet pumpkin creates a well-balanced dish that is both satisfying and nutritious. fudgy pumpkin brownies With its relatively quick preparation time, this recipe is perfect for any weeknight dinner or special occasion. Don’t hesitate to experiment with variations to make it uniquely yours!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Fusilli with Pumpkin and Sausage

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Clare Schmidt
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Fusilli with Pumpkin and Sausage is a delicious fall-inspired dish that brings together the earthy sweetness of pumpkin and the savory richness of Italian sausage, all wrapped in delightful fusilli pasta. This cozy meal is perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, delivering a comforting bowl of flavors that will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz fusilli pasta
• 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or homemade)
• 1 lb Italian sausage (casings removed)
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Cook fusilli pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and cook the sausage until browned and crumbly, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add chopped onion to the skillet; sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Mix in pumpkin puree and a splash of chicken broth; simmer for about five minutes.
5. Stir in fresh spinach until wilted, then combine with the cooked fusilli.
6. Top with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 300g)
• Calories: 460
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 790mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 65mg