Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash Pasta

Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash Pasta is one of those recipes that truly warms the heart and fills the belly. Picture this: roasted veggies, crispy bacon, and pasta all coming together in a colorful, inviting dish. It’s not only comforting but also whispers of seasonal flavors, making it perfect for those cozy dinners at home or when entertaining friends. Many nights can feel like a rush, but with this easy one-pan meal, you won’t have to compromise on either flavor or nutrition.

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This dish allows you to indulge in the rich flavors of roasted butternut squash and Brussels sprouts, perfectly complemented by a hint of zest from fresh lemon juice and the savory addition of Parmesan cheese. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, and once you take a bite, you’ll understand why it deserves a place in your kitchen repertoire. So grab your apron and let’s cook up something delicious together!

Why This Recipe Works

The rich flavors of roasted butternut squash and Brussels sprouts come together beautifully, enhanced by bacon’s savory crunch. Roasting the vegetables intensifies their natural sweetness and gives them a delightful crispiness. Then, the fresh lemon juice adds brightness, balancing the rich components of this dish. Additionally, Parmesan lends creaminess without heavy sauces that can weigh down a meal. This pasta dish epitomizes comfort food with a seasonal flair, making it perfect for cozy family dinners or elegant gatherings alike.

Why You’ll Love This Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash Pasta

You are going to love how easy this one-pan meal is! It combines healthy veggies with delicious pasta, satisfying your cravings without sacrificing nutrition. Plus, the convenience of cooking everything in one pan makes cleanup a breeze—a busy home cook’s best friend! The colorful presentation will impress guests, making it a great option for dinner parties or family gatherings. Also, if you have dietary preferences, this recipe is versatile enough to adapt. You can easily switch it to vegetarian variations or use gluten-free pasta as needed.

Ingredients

• 4 strips bacon, chopped
• 4 cups peeled butternut squash, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 cups halved Brussels sprouts
• ½ cup diced shallots
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 10 ounces pasta (rigatoni, penne, or farfalle)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced or grated
• ¼ – ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Juice of 1 lemon
• ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves

Preparing the Delicious Pasta Dish

Preheat the Oven

First things first—set your oven to 425°F, getting it nice and hot for roasting those beautiful veggies.

Roast the Vegetables and Bacon

Next, you’ll want to combine the chopped bacon, butternut squash, and halved Brussels sprouts on a rimmed baking sheet. Drizzle everything with olive oil, then season generously with salt and pepper. Toss until they’re well coated, spreading the veggies in a single layer. Now, roast for 10 minutes, then give everything a good stir and return it to the oven for another 10-15 minutes until it’s tender and has that lovely crispiness.

Cook the Pasta

While the vegetables are roasting, prepare your pasta by following the package instructions. Just before draining, remember to reserve 1 cup of that precious pasta water!

Sauté Garlic

Meanwhile, grab a large skillet and heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Your kitchen will smell amazing!

Combine Ingredients

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add the cooked pasta, roasted veggies, bacon, Parmesan cheese, and thyme to the skillet. Squeeze in the lemon juice, then toss everything well to combine.

Create the Sauce

To create a creamy sauce, gradually pour in the reserved pasta water—start with ½ cup. Stir until a beautiful sauce forms. If it looks too thick, feel free to add a bit more pasta water. Season to taste, and for that extra touch, top with additional Parmesan cheese if desired!

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs or extra Parmesan for a touch of elegance. This delightful dish pairs wonderfully with a simple arugula salad or some garlic bread to complete your meal.

Tips for Success

• To ensure even cooking, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet with vegetables.
• If you prefer a milder heat, adjust the amount of red pepper flakes accordingly.

Variations

If you’re looking to switch things up, feel free to swap out the bacon for a plant-based alternative or omit it entirely for a delicious vegetarian option. Different pasta types can also work, so don’t hesitate to use gluten-free pasta if needed.

Storage Tips

Leftovers? No problem! Just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water to restore that creamy goodness.

Pairing Ideas

To complement the delightful flavors of this dish, consider pairing it with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc. You can also serve alongside roasted or steamed green vegetables for an added nutrient boost.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A1: Yes! Simply replace the bacon with mushrooms or tofu for a delicious option.

Q2: How can I store leftovers?
A2: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Q3: Can I freeze this pasta dish?
A3: Yes, it can freeze nicely in an airtight container. Just be sure to thaw it in the fridge before reheating.

Q4: What can I use instead of Parmesan?
A4: Nutritional yeast makes a great dairy-free alternative that provides a similar cheesy flavor.

Q5: How can I spice it up even more?
A5: Feel free to add more red pepper flakes or a splash of your favorite hot sauce for an added kick.

This Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash Pasta truly brings together the best flavors and textures. It’s a delicious celebration of seasonal ingredients, and you can customize it effortlessly to your taste. Enjoy this simple yet satisfying dish with friends and family, knowing it’s as nourishing as it is delightful!

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