A cozy one-pan autumn sausage pasta made with Italian sausage, seasonal vegetables, and a creamy broth-based sauce. Ready in about 30 minutes, perfect for fall dinners.
1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced
3 cups butternut squash or sweet potato, peeled and diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tsp fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried)
1 tbsp fresh sage, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
12 oz short pasta (penne, rigatoni, etc.)
3½–4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional: red pepper flakes, baby spinach, white wine (¼ cup)
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown sausage for 6–8 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Add onion and squash to the pan. Sauté 5–6 minutes until softened.
Stir in garlic, thyme, and sage. Cook 1 minute more.
Add uncooked pasta and return sausage to the pan. Pour in broth (and wine, if using).
Simmer covered for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
Stir in cream and Parmesan. Simmer uncovered 2–3 minutes until thickened.
Season to taste and serve warm.
Substitute with turkey or vegan sausage as needed.
Add chopped kale or spinach before serving.
Reheat with a splash of broth for creamy texture.