Jump to Recipe Print RecipeEvery time autumn rolls around, the warm aroma of roasted vegetables fills my kitchen, transporting me to cozy meals shared with loved ones. Today, I want to invite you to savor a dish that beautifully embodies this season: Bacon, Brussels Sprouts, and Butternut Squash Pasta. This healthy pasta recipe melds together the earthy flavors of Brussels sprouts and sweet butternut squash, all enhanced by crispy bacon and zesty lemon juice. The best part? It’s a quick meal that offers comfort without overwhelming calories, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, you can easily adapt it to be gluten-free or vegetarian, so everyone can enjoy this nourishing delight. Doesn’t the idea of a vibrant, wholesome pasta dish sound enticing? Let’s dive in and explore how to create this deliciously satisfying meal! Why Is This Pasta Recipe a Must-Try? Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of crispy bacon, earthy Brussels sprouts, and sweet butternut squash creates a harmonious blend that will tantalize your taste buds. Quick Preparation: This recipe is all about convenience, allowing you to prepare a wholesome meal in under 30 minutes. Perfect for those busy weeknights! Healthy Twist: Packed with fiber from the veggies, this pasta is a nourishing option you can feel good about serving your family. Customizable: Whether you’re in the mood for a vegetarian delight or looking to switch up the pasta shape, this recipe offers endless possibilities. Try it with Creamy Pesto Chicken Broccoli Pasta for a creamy alternative! Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: With its vibrant colors and comforting flavors, this dish is sure to impress at your next family dinner or gathering. Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash Pasta Ingredients • For the Pasta Rigatoni, Penne, or Farfalle – Choose your favorite shape for the best texture in this Brussels sprouts and butternut squash pasta. • For the Roasted Vegetables Bacon – Adds savory flavor and a crunchy texture; substitute with tempeh bacon for a vegetarian option. Butternut Squash – Provides sweetness and body to the dish; cube into 1-inch pieces for even roasting. Brussels Sprouts – Contributes a slight bitterness and texture contrast; halve for quicker cooking and caramelization. Shallots – Enhance the overall flavor with mild sweetness when roasted; yellow onion works if shallots are unavailable. Olive Oil – Used for drizzling over vegetables for roasting; extra virgin enhances flavor depth. Garlic – Adds aromatic flavor; mince or grate for even distribution throughout the dish. • Seasonings Kosher Salt – Essential for enhancing flavors; adjust to taste as needed. Black Pepper – Adds warmth and depth; freshly cracked is best! Red Pepper Flakes – Infuses heat; adjust the amount based on your preference. • For the Finish Lemon Juice – Offers acidity to balance the richness; one fresh lemon should suffice. Parmesan Cheese – Adds creaminess and a salty finish; opt for a vegetarian alternative if needed. Fresh Thyme Leaves – Provides extra flavor; fresh is preferable, but dried thyme can be a substitute. Feel free to mix it up! The combination of Brussels sprouts and butternut squash pasta brings warmth and comfort to your dinner table, making it a dish everyone will love. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Savory Bacon, Brussels Sprouts, and Butternut Squash Pasta Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This step is crucial for achieving perfectly roasted vegetables. Assemble your baking sheet and gather the chopped bacon, cubed butternut squash, halved Brussels sprouts, and sliced shallots to ensure a seamless cooking process. Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables On your prepared baking sheet, combine the chopped bacon, butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, and shallots. Drizzle the mixture with olive oil, then season generously with kosher salt and black pepper. Toss everything together until the veggies and bacon are thoroughly coated, ensuring a flavorful base for your Brussels sprouts and butternut squash pasta. Step 3: Roast the Veggies Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and roast the mixture for 10 minutes. After this time, take it out and toss the vegetables to promote even cooking. Return them to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the veggies are tender and lightly caramelized, releasing a delightful autumn aroma. Step 4: Cook the Pasta While the vegetables are roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your chosen pasta—whether rigatoni, penne, or farfalle—and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Remember to reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the cooked pasta, as this will help create a luscious sauce for your savory pasta dish. Step 5: Sauté the Aromatics In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 30 seconds or until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic, which might give your Brussels sprouts and butternut squash pasta an unpleasant bitter taste. Step 6: Combine Everything Add the drained pasta to the skillet along with the roasted vegetables and crispy bacon. Stir in the freshly grated parmesan cheese and fresh thyme leaves, then squeeze the lemon juice over the top. This combination of flavors will elevate your dish, creating a vibrant and hearty experience. Step 7: Adjust the Sauce Gradually mix in the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you reach your desired sauce consistency. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly coated. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, ensuring your Brussels sprouts and butternut squash pasta is perfectly balanced. Step 8: Serve and Enjoy Plate your savory bacon, Brussels sprouts, and butternut squash pasta, finishing each serving with a sprinkle of additional parmesan cheese if desired. The colorful medley of roasted vegetables against the pasta creates an inviting dish that is sure to delight your family and friends. How to Store and Freeze Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash Pasta Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This helps maintain the freshness of the Brussels sprouts and butternut squash pasta. Freezer: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. For best results, separate the pasta from the sauce before freezing, as this prevents sogginess. Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm gently in a skillet, adding a splash of broth or water for moisture to revive the flavors. Leftovers: If you have any unprocessed ingredients, store them separately to keep freshness intact for your future cooking adventures! What to Serve with Savory Bacon, Brussels Sprouts, and Butternut Squash Pasta Savor the warmth of a complete meal by pairing this delightful pasta with complementary sides and beverages that enhance its flavors. Crispy Garlic Bread: The crunch of freshly toasted garlic bread adds a delightful texture, perfect for soaking up the savory sauce of the pasta. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast, balancing the rich flavors of the dish effortlessly. Roasted Root Vegetables: A medley of carrots and parsnips roasted to caramelized perfection complements the sweet butternut squash, enhancing the root vegetable theme. Sautéed Greens: Tender sautéed kale or spinach sprinkled with lemon zest brings a bright burst of freshness that beautifully contrasts the hearty pasta. Pinot Grigio: A chilled glass of Pinot Grigio sings alongside the dish, its crispness enhancing the complex flavors of crispy bacon and roasted veggies. Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a rich chocolate mousse offers a sweet, decadent finish that leaves everyone feeling satisfied and pampered. Let these suggestions transform your dinner into an inviting feast, perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners! Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash Pasta Variations Feel free to get creative while savoring this delightful dish! Let your culinary imagination soar as you make it truly yours. Vegetarian Delight: Replace bacon with tempeh or mushrooms for a hearty, meatless meal that still packs a flavor punch. This variation encourages you to embrace the earthy notes of the vegetables even more. Whole Grain Goodness: Swap in whole grain or gluten-free pasta options like spiralized zucchini or chickpea pasta for added nutrients and fiber, making it suitable for various dietary preferences. Seasonal Greens: Add in seasonal veggies like kale or spinach for an extra boost of nutrients and color. They not only enhance the dish but also offer an additional layer of flavor and texture. Creamy Twist: Drizzle with a bit of cream or a dairy-free alternative towards the end for a richer sauce that will pamper your taste buds. This will turn a simple pasta into a true indulgence. Nuts for Crunch: Toss in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts before serving for a delightful crunch, complementing the softness of the pasta and roasted veggies. Zesty Flavor Boost: Mix in sun-dried tomatoes or olives for an unexpected salty-sweet contrast that will elevate the dish’s flavor profile. Herb Infusion: Try swapping out thyme for fresh basil or sage to bring a whole new herbal note to the dish. Each herb dances on your palate, making every bite a new experience. Spice it Up: Kick up the heat with some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a fiery version that warms you up on cool autumn nights. No matter how you choose to adapt your Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash Pasta, you’re bound to create a comforting dish that everyone will flock to! If you’re looking for more delightful pasta creations, consider trying One Pot Pasta or Buffalo Chicken Pasta. Happy cooking! Make Ahead Options These Savory Bacon, Brussels Sprouts, and Butternut Squash Pasta plates are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop and roast the Brussels sprouts, butternut squash, and bacon up to 24 hours in advance; just refrigerate them in an airtight container to keep them fresh and prevent browning. Cook the pasta ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days—just be sure to toss it in a touch of olive oil to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the prepped ingredients in a skillet, add the garlic and red pepper flakes, heat it all through, and finish with lemon juice and parmesan. This way, you’ll enjoy a gourmet meal with minimal effort, perfect for your busy weeknights! Expert Tips for Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash Pasta • Roasting Perfection: Ensure even caramelization by cutting vegetables to uniform sizes; this allows them to cook at the same rate and enhances flavors. • Pasta Consistency: Save at least 1 cup of reserved pasta water, adding gradually during mixing; this helps create a silky sauce for your Brussels sprouts and butternut squash pasta. • Avoid Sogginess: Don’t overcook the veggies; they should be tender with a slight bite, providing the perfect contrast to the soft pasta. • Flavor Boost: Use freshly grated parmesan instead of pre-grated; it melts better and enriches the dish with a creamy profile, elevating your overall enjoyment. • Spice it Up: Adjust red pepper flakes according to taste; this allows you to control the heat level and cater to different palates at the dinner table. Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash Pasta Recipe FAQs What is the best way to select ripe butternut squash for this recipe? Absolutely! Look for butternut squashes that are firm, have a matte skin, and feel heavy for their size. Avoid ones with dark spots or soft areas, as those are signs of over-ripeness. The ideal squash should be a tan color, indicating it’s ripe and ready for roasting. How long can I store the Brussels sprouts and butternut squash pasta in the fridge? You can keep your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To maintain taste and texture, I recommend reheating it with a splash of broth, which keeps the pasta moist and flavorful. Can I freeze Brussels sprouts and butternut squash pasta? If so, how? Yes, you can! To freeze, place your Brussels sprouts and butternut squash pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 months. For best results, I suggest freezing the pasta and sauce separately. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy when thawed. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and gently reheat in a skillet with a little broth for moisture. What should I do if my roasted vegetables are not caramelizing properly? Very good question! If your vegetables aren’t caramelizing, make sure they have enough space on the baking sheet. Overcrowded veggies can steam instead of roast. Keep them in a single layer for even cooking, and don’t be afraid to crank up the oven temperature to 450°F (232°C) if needed. Also, tossing them halfway through roasting helps achieve that beautiful golden-brown color. Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of for this dish? Certainly! This recipe can be made gluten-free by substituting the pasta with a gluten-free alternative like brown rice pasta or zucchini noodles. Additionally, if anyone in your party is allergic to certain ingredients like nuts or dairy, feel free to use a dairy-free cheese alternative or skip the cheese completely. Is it possible to make this dish vegan? Absolutely! You can substitute the bacon with tempeh or mushrooms to keep that umami flavor, and simply omit the cheese or substitute it with a plant-based version. This makes the Brussels sprouts and butternut squash pasta a satisfying vegan meal that everyone can enjoy! Savory Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash Pasta Delight Savor Brussels Sprouts and Butternut Squash Pasta, a quick and healthy dish that melds together earthy flavors, perfect for autumn meals. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 45 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta12 ounces Rigatoni, Penne, or Farfalle Choose your favorite shape for the best textureFor the Roasted Vegetables4 strips Bacon Can substitute with tempeh bacon for vegetarian option2 cups Butternut Squash Cube into 1-inch pieces2 cups Brussels Sprouts Halve for quicker cooking and caramelization1 cup Shallots Sliced; yellow onion works if shallots are unavailable3 tablespoons Olive Oil Extra virgin enhances flavor depth2 cloves Garlic Mince or grate for even distributionSeasonings1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Adjust to taste as needed1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Freshly cracked is best1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Adjust based on your preferenceFor the Finish1 tablespoon Lemon Juice One fresh lemon should suffice1 cup Parmesan Cheese Opt for vegetarian alternative if needed2 tablespoons Fresh Thyme Leaves Fresh is preferable Equipment Ovenbaking sheetlarge potlarge skillet Method Step‑by‑Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).Combine chopped bacon, butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, and shallots on a baking sheet.Drizzle with olive oil and season with kosher salt and black pepper, then toss to coat.Roast the mixture for 10 minutes, then toss and return to oven for 10-15 more minutes.While the vegetables are roasting, cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente.In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sauté minced garlic and red pepper flakes for 30 seconds.Add drained pasta, roasted vegetables, and bacon to the skillet, then mix in parmesan and thyme.Squeeze lemon juice over the top and add reserved pasta water gradually to adjust sauce consistency.Plate and finish with additional parmesan if desired. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 15gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 8gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg NotesMix in different pasta shapes for a personal touch; enjoy variations of this dish with different seasonings or extra vegetables. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
