If you’re looking for a cozy dish that brings together the flavors of fall, look no further than this delightful Bacon Brussels Sprouts Butternut Squash Pasta. This recipe has become a family favorite in our home, and I’m excited to share it with you! The sweet roasted butternut squash pairs perfectly with the earthy brussels sprouts and the crispy bacon, creating a comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
What makes this dish even more special is its simplicity. With just a few wholesome ingredients, you can whip up a pasta dish that bursts with flavor, making it an ideal choice for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to prepare: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, you’ll have dinner on the table in no time.
- Family-friendly appeal: The combination of savory and sweet flavors makes this pasta a hit with kids and adults alike!
- Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch on Sunday and enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week.
- Vegetable-packed goodness: You’re getting plenty of nutrients from the butternut squash and brussels sprouts, making this dish both satisfying and healthy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this recipe, you’ll be using simple, wholesome ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need to create your own Bacon Brussels Sprouts Butternut Squash Pasta:
For the Pasta Dish
- 4 strips bacon, (chopped)
- 4 cups peeled butternut squash, (cut into 1 inch cubes)
- 2 cups halved brussels sprouts
- 1/2 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)
- 1/4 – 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, to taste
- 1 lemon, (juiced)
- 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
Variations
One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand:
- Swap the protein: Instead of bacon, try turkey bacon or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
- Change up the veggies: Add in some spinach or kale for extra greens—just toss them in towards the end so they wilt nicely.
- Make it creamy: Stir in some heavy cream or a plant-based alternative for a rich and indulgent twist.
- Go gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish accessible for everyone!
How to Make Bacon Brussels Sprouts Butternut Squash Pasta
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F. This high temperature will help caramelize the vegetables beautifully, enhancing their natural sweetness.
Step 2: Roast the Vegetables and Bacon
Place your chopped bacon along with the butternut squash and brussels sprouts onto a rimmed baking sheet. Drizzle everything with olive oil and season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss until well-coated and spread them out into a single layer. Roasting them for about 10 minutes before giving them another toss allows everything to cook evenly while developing those delicious caramelized edges.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
While your veggies roast away in the oven, cook your chosen pasta according to package instructions. Remember to reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining; this starchy water will help create a lovely sauce later on!
Step 4: Sauté Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil along with minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sautéing these ingredients for about 30 seconds releases their fragrant aromas, adding depth to your dish.
Step 5: Combine Everything Together
Add your cooked pasta right into the skillet along with those beautifully roasted vegetables and bacon. Sprinkle in the parmesan cheese and fresh thyme leaves before squeezing in that zesty lemon juice. Toss everything together so each bite is bursting with flavor.
Step 6: Create Your Sauce
Pour in some reserved pasta water—start with half a cup—and stir until you achieve your desired consistency. This step is crucial as it combines all elements into one cohesive dish! Taste it for seasoning; feel free to adjust if needed, then finish it off with extra parmesan cheese if you’re feeling indulgent.
Enjoy every delicious bite of your homemade Bacon Brussels Sprouts Butternut Squash Pasta!
Pro Tips for Making Bacon Brussels Sprouts Butternut Squash Pasta
Cooking can be a breeze with the right tips in your back pocket! Here are some helpful suggestions to elevate your dish:
Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs not only enhance the flavor but also ensure that your dish is vibrant and packed with nutrients.
Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet: Spacing out the vegetables allows them to roast evenly, ensuring they caramelize beautifully instead of steaming.
Reserve pasta water wisely: The starchy pasta water acts as a natural thickener for your sauce. Start with half a cup and gradually add more until you achieve your desired consistency.
Experiment with cheese: While parmesan is delicious, trying other cheeses like nutritional yeast or a dairy-free alternative can keep things exciting and cater to different dietary preferences.
Taste as you go: Adjusting seasoning throughout the cooking process will help you create a perfectly balanced dish tailored to your palate.
How to Serve Bacon Brussels Sprouts Butternut Squash Pasta
Presenting your delicious pasta dish can make it even more enjoyable. Here are some ideas on how to serve it beautifully!
Garnishes
- Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh thyme or parsley adds color and an aromatic touch that brightens up the dish.
- Lemon zest: Grating some lemon peel on top just before serving enhances the citrus flavor and adds visual appeal.
Side Dishes
- Garlic bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread pairs perfectly with pasta, making it a classic choice for soaking up any leftover sauce.
- Mixed greens salad: A light salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta while adding freshness.
- Roasted vegetables: Serve additional roasted seasonal vegetables alongside for a hearty meal that celebrates autumn flavors.
- Grilled asparagus: The slight char from grilling asparagus offers a delightful contrast to the creamy pasta, creating a well-rounded plate.
Make Ahead and Storage
This Bacon Brussels Sprouts Butternut Squash Pasta is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week! You can prepare it in advance and store it properly for later enjoyment.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the pasta to cool completely before storing.
- Transfer it to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing
- Let the pasta cool completely before freezing.
- Portion it into individual servings and place in freezer-safe bags or containers.
- It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
- Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen up the sauce.
- You can also microwave individual portions until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use another type of bacon for this Bacon Brussels Sprouts Butternut Squash Pasta?
Yes! You can substitute turkey bacon or vegan bacon alternatives if you prefer. Both will still provide great flavor while keeping the dish pork-free.
How do I make this Bacon Brussels Sprouts Butternut Squash Pasta gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta. There are many delicious options available that will work well!
How long does it take to cook Bacon Brussels Sprouts Butternut Squash Pasta?
The total cooking time is about 50 minutes, which includes both preparation and cooking time. It’s a quick and satisfying meal for any weeknight!
Final Thoughts
This Bacon Brussels Sprouts Butternut Squash Pasta is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of fall flavors that brings warmth and comfort to your table. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do! Don’t hesitate to get creative with your ingredients, and feel free to share your experience. Happy cooking!
Brussels Sprouts Butternut Squash Pasta
Indulge in a warm bowl of Brussels Sprouts Butternut Squash Pasta, a comforting dish that captures the essence of fall. This recipe combines roasted butternut squash’s sweetness with the earthy flavors of brussels sprouts, enhanced by crispy turkey bacon for a satisfying twist. Perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings, this dish is both simple to prepare and packed with nutrition. With minimal ingredients, you’ll whip up a delightful pasta meal that brings joy to every bite.
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately four people 1x
Ingredients
- 4 strips turkey bacon (chopped)
- 4 cups peeled butternut squash (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 2 cups halved brussels sprouts
- 1/2 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)
- 1/4 – 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F.
- On a rimmed baking sheet, toss turkey bacon, butternut squash, and brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for about 10 minutes until caramelized.
- Meanwhile, cook your pasta according to package instructions; reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté minced garlic and red pepper flakes in olive oil until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Add cooked pasta, roasted vegetables and turkey bacon to the skillet. Stir in parmesan cheese and fresh thyme leaves before squeezing in lemon juice. Toss well.
- Gradually add reserved pasta water until desired sauce consistency is reached.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 350g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
