As the air turns crisp and the leaves begin to paint the world in hues of orange and gold, I often find myself craving dishes that capitalize on autumn’s bounty. This Bacon Brussels Sprouts Butternut Squash Pasta is one such dish that dances on the taste buds, bringing together the earthy flavors of roasted Brussels sprouts, the sweetness of butternut squash, and the smoky luxury of crispy bacon.
One lazy Sunday afternoon, I decided to turn my kitchen into an aromatic haven, coaxing these seasonal ingredients to create a meal that felt both comforting and vibrant. The buttery texture of the butternut squash pairs beautifully with the punch of savory parmesan and the bright zest of fresh lemon juice, ensuring each bite resonates with flavors that celebrate the season.
If you’re weary of another fast-food meal or looking to elevate your weeknight dinners, this recipe is a game changer. With minimal fuss and maximum flavor, it’s the perfect go-to for those who love homemade food that nourishes both body and soul. Get ready to savor a bowl of wholesome deliciousness!
Why You’ll Love Brussels Sprouts & Butternut Squash Pasta
Comforting Flavors: This dish highlights the sweet, earthy harmony of butternut squash and Brussels sprouts, complemented by crispy bacon.
Quick to Prepare: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for those busy weeknights!
Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with vegetables, this pasta offers a healthy dose of nutrients without sacrificing taste.
Versatile Options: Easy to adapt for vegetarians or to swap in your favorite seasonal veggies!
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Ideal for family dinners or gatherings, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied.
Seasonal Delight: Celebrate fall flavors that warm the heart and stomach—perfect for cozy evenings!
Brussels Sprouts & Butternut Squash Pasta Ingredients
For the Pasta
- Pasta (10 ounces) – Use rigatoni, penne, or farfalle for the best texture and sauce adherence.
For the Vegetables
- Bacon – Provides savory depth and crisp texture; turkey bacon works as a lighter alternative.
- Butternut Squash – Adds natural sweetness and creaminess; can be fresh or frozen depending on availability.
- Brussels Sprouts – Contributes earthy flavor and vibrant color; substitute with green beans if desired.
- Shallots – Offers a mild onion flavor; red onions can be used as a substitute for a bolder taste.
- Garlic – Infuses the dish with aromatic flavor; fresh is best, but powdered can be a quick substitute.
- Red Pepper Flakes – Adds a hint of heat; omit for a milder dish if preferred.
For Cooking and Flavor
- Olive Oil – Essential for roasting and sautéing; avocado oil is a great substitute for a different flavor.
- Kosher Salt and Black Pepper – Enhance all the flavors; adjust to personal taste.
- Lemon – Brings acidity and brightness to balance the dish; lime can be used for a different zing.
- Parmesan Cheese (½ cup) – Provides richness and umami; nutritional yeast is a good alternative for dairy-free diets.
- Fresh Thyme Leaves (2 teaspoons) – Introduces herby notes; dried thyme can be used in a pinch.
Dive into this delicious Brussels Sprouts & Butternut Squash Pasta with these fresh ingredients, and prepare for a meal that warms your soul!
How to Make Brussels Sprouts & Butternut Squash Pasta
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Preheat oven: Start by setting your oven to 425°F (220°C). This will ensure a nice, hot environment for roasting those beautiful vegetables.
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Prepare the bacon and vegetables: On a large baking sheet, combine the diced bacon, butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, and shallots. Drizzle with olive oil and season generously with kosher salt and black pepper, tossing everything together until well coated. Spread it all in a single layer for even roasting.
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Roast vegetables: Place the sheet pan in the oven and roast for 10 minutes. Afterward, give everything a toss and roast for an additional 10-15 minutes until the veggies are tender and caramelized, with a lovely golden brown color.
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Cook pasta: In a pot of salted boiling water, cook your pasta according to the package instructions. Just before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water—it’s golden like liquid gold for adjusting your sauce!
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Sauté garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm a bit of olive oil. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant and slightly golden.
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Combine ingredients: In the skillet, toss in the roasted vegetables and bacon, along with the cooked pasta. Add in the creamy parmesan cheese and a squeeze of lemon juice, then sprinkle in fresh thyme leaves. Mix it all together until everything is well combined and coated in gooey goodness.
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Adjust sauce consistency: Gradually add the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired sauce thickness, mixing well. Season to taste with more salt and pepper, then finish with an extra sprinkle of parmesan for that finishing touch.
Optional: Garnish with extra thyme or a twist of lemon zest for added freshness before serving!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Brussels Sprouts & Butternut Squash Pasta
- Roast for Perfection: Ensure the vegetables are evenly spread out on the sheet pan; overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting, impacting flavor and texture.
- Pasta Timing: Reserve your pasta water before draining; this starchy liquid is crucial for adjusting the consistency of your Brussels Sprouts & Butternut Squash Pasta.
- Crispy Bacon: Cook bacon until it’s nice and crispy; this adds a delightful crunch to the dish, enhancing the overall texture and flavor.
- Vibrant Colors: To keep the veggies vibrant, toss them just once halfway through roasting; too much handling can cause them to lose their beautiful colors.
- Lemon Zest Boost: For an extra zing, consider adding lemon zest along with the juice. It intensifies that bright, fresh flavor in your pasta!
Variations & Substitutions for Brussels Sprouts & Butternut Squash Pasta
Feel free to mix and match ingredients to create a version that truly reflects your taste!
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Vegetarian Delight: Omit the bacon and add extra roasted chickpeas for protein and crunch. This addition offers a savory element without the meat!
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Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta, such as chickpea or brown rice pasta, for a similar texture that caters to dietary needs. Enjoy all the comfort without compromising on flavor!
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Spicy Kick: Swap red pepper flakes for diced fresh jalapeños to give your dish a delightful heat. A burst of spice makes the flavors really shine!
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Cheesy Boost: Add a blend of ricotta and mozzarella for a creamier, cheesier experience. This twist elevates the richness while enhancing the texture.
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Sweet & Savory: Mix in diced apples or pears with the vegetables before roasting for a hint of sweetness. This fruity addition complements the earthy flavors beautifully.
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Pumpkin Twist: Substitute butternut squash with canned pumpkin purée for a creamier consistency and a touch of fall spice that’s comforting and satisfying.
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Nutty Flavor: Top with toasted walnuts or pecans for a crunchy finish that provides nutty flavor and additional texture. This adds a wonderful contrast to the creamy pasta!
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with herbs like sage or rosemary in place of thyme for a fragrant twist that brings a whole new dimension to the dish. The aroma combined with the flavors is simply irresistible!
How to Store and Freeze Brussels Sprouts & Butternut Squash Pasta
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pasta in an airtight container or freezer bags for up to 3 months. To avoid freezer burn, make sure to expel excess air before sealing.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of chicken or vegetable broth to restore moisture and creaminess.
Quality Tip: The Brussels Sprouts & Butternut Squash Pasta tastes best when consumed fresh, but storing allows you to savor the flavors later without waste!
What to Serve with Bacon Brussels Sprouts Butternut Squash Pasta?
Looking to elevate your meal experience beyond the pasta itself? Here’s how to take your dinner from great to unforgettable!
- Garlic Bread: The crispy, buttery goodness of garlic bread helps scoop up every last bite, melding flawlessly with the pasta’s rich flavors.
- Simple Green Salad: A fresh mix of greens with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch that balances the hearty pasta, enhancing your meal’s overall lightness.
- Roasted Chicken: Juicy, flavorful roasted chicken adds a protein punch, complementing the dish while offering a hearty main for meat lovers at the table.
- Sweet Potato Fries: The sweet crunch of these fries echoes the butternut squash’s sweetness, creating a delightful contrast against the savory components of your dinner.
For a special twist, consider serving with a Crisp Pinot Grigio—its bright acidity beautifully cuts through the richness of the pasta while enhancing the dish’s lemony notes. Finish off your meal with a Pumpkin Cheesecake for dessert, bringing seasonal flavors full circle in a sweet, creamy package!
Make Ahead Options
These Bacon Brussels Sprouts Butternut Squash Pasta are perfect for meal prep aficionados! You can chop and roast the Brussels sprouts and butternut squash up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Additionally, you can cook the pasta and mix it with olive oil to prevent sticking before refrigerating it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the roasted veggies in the oven or a skillet, cook the garlic, and combine everything with the pasta and seasonings. This approach saves time, ensuring your dish is just as delicious and satisfying as when made fresh!
Brussels Sprouts & Butternut Squash Pasta Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe butternut squash?
Choose a butternut squash that is firm to the touch with a smooth, tan skin and a uniform color. Avoid any with soft spots, dark blemishes, or shriveled skin, as these are signs of overripeness. A good squash should feel heavy for its size, indicating it’s full of moisture and flavor.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This keeps the pasta fresh and flavorful. When reheating, add a splash of chicken or vegetable broth to bring back moisture and ensure the dish stays creamy.
Can I freeze the Brussels Sprouts & Butternut Squash Pasta?
Yes, you can! To freeze, place the cooled pasta in airtight containers or freezer bags, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop.
What should I do if my pasta turns out mushy?
Very! If your pasta ends up mushy, it could be due to overcooking. For future reference, make sure to follow the package instructions for cooking times, checking for an al dente texture. If necessary, you can add a splash of cream or extra cheese to help bind it together, giving it a richer flavor while lightly masking the texture.
Are there any dietary considerations for this dish?
Definitely! If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, you can easily adapt this recipe. Substitute the bacon with turkey bacon or omit it for a vegetarian version. Use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan for a dairy-free option, and always double-check for allergies, especially with the added ingredients like garlic and red pepper flakes.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
If you crave a bit more heat in your Brussels Sprouts & Butternut Squash Pasta, consider adding more red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic. Alternatively, you could also toss in a pinch of cayenne pepper or top with freshly sliced jalapeños for an extra kick. Remember, adjust according to your flavor preference!
Brussels Sprouts & Butternut Squash Pasta: Cozy Comfort Food
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven: Start by setting your oven to 425°F (220°C). This will ensure a nice, hot environment for roasting those beautiful vegetables.
- Prepare the bacon and vegetables: On a large baking sheet, combine the diced bacon, butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, and shallots. Drizzle with olive oil and season generously with kosher salt and black pepper, tossing everything together until well coated. Spread it all in a single layer for even roasting.
- Roast vegetables: Place the sheet pan in the oven and roast for 10 minutes. Afterward, give everything a toss and roast for an additional 10-15 minutes until the veggies are tender and caramelized, with a lovely golden brown color.
- Cook pasta: In a pot of salted boiling water, cook your pasta according to the package instructions. Just before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water—it’s golden like liquid gold for adjusting your sauce!
- Sauté garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm a bit of olive oil. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant and slightly golden.
- Combine ingredients: In the skillet, toss in the roasted vegetables and bacon, along with the cooked pasta. Add in the creamy parmesan cheese and a squeeze of lemon juice, then sprinkle in fresh thyme leaves. Mix it all together until everything is well combined and coated in gooey goodness.
- Adjust sauce consistency: Gradually add the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired sauce thickness, mixing well. Season to taste with more salt and pepper, then finish with an extra sprinkle of parmesan for that finishing touch.