Bacon Brussels Sprouts Butternut Squash Pasta

Roasted butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, and crispy bacon come together in a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This Bacon Brussels Sprouts Butternut Squash Pasta features vibrant flavors and hearty ingredients that will satisfy your cravings. It’s an excellent choice for a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, bringing warmth and richness to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Combination: The sweet butternut squash paired with savory Brussels sprouts creates a delightful balance of flavors.
• Seasonal Ingredients: This dish highlights seasonal produce, making it ideal for fall and winter meals.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you’ll have this delicious pasta ready in no time.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or a side, this pasta can easily adapt to any meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: It’s packed with flavor, ensuring even the pickiest eaters will enjoy it.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essentials for this recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Large skillet
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Mixing spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Ensures even roasting of vegetables for optimal flavor and texture.
• Large skillet: Provides ample space to combine all ingredients without overcrowding.
• Pot for boiling pasta: A sturdy pot helps cook the pasta evenly without sticking together.

Ingredients

Roasted butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, bacon, parmesan cheese, and fresh lemon juice give this fall pasta so much flavor!

For the Pasta

• 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
• kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 lemon, (juiced)
• 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves

How to Make Bacon Brussels Sprouts Butternut Squash Pasta

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat oven to 425° F. Put the vegetables and bacon onto a rimmed baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. I used about 1 teaspoon kosher salt. Toss until coated and then spread them into a single layer.

Step 2: Roast the Vegetables

Roast the vegetables for 10 minutes then remove from the oven. Toss them around and place back in the oven to roast for another 10-15 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and caramelized while the bacon gets crisp.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

While the vegetables roast, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water before draining it.

Step 4: Prepare the Skillet

Heat a large skillet over medium heat with the olive oil. Add in the garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with the roasted vegetables, bacon, parmesan cheese, and thyme leaves. Squeeze in the lemon juice and toss everything together.

Step 6: Create Sauce Consistency

Pour in some of the reserved pasta water—start with 1/2 cup. Stir together until a sauce starts to form. Add additional pasta water as needed to achieve your desired consistency. Taste for seasoning and top with extra parmesan cheese.

This Bacon Brussels Sprouts Butternut Squash Pasta is sure to be a hit at your next meal! Enjoy each bite filled with delicious flavors that celebrate seasonal ingredients!

How to Serve Bacon Brussels Sprouts Butternut Squash Pasta

Serving your Bacon Brussels Sprouts Butternut Squash Pasta can elevate the meal experience. Here are some delightful suggestions to enhance your dish and impress your guests.

With a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens: A light salad of mixed greens with a simple vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta.
• Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons contrast beautifully with the pasta’s texture.

Pairing with Garlic Bread

• Classic Garlic Bread: Toasted bread slathered in garlic butter is perfect for soaking up any sauce left on your plate.
• Herbed Focaccia: A flavorful focaccia bread adds an aromatic touch that pairs well with this fall dish.

Adding a Protein

• Grilled Chicken: Thinly sliced grilled chicken can add a hearty element to your meal while keeping it light.
• Roasted Turkey Breast: Sliced turkey breast brings a seasonal flavor that enhances the overall autumn experience.

Finishing Touches

• Extra Parmesan Cheese: Offering freshly grated parmesan allows guests to personalize their servings.
• Chili Flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, providing chili flakes can spice up their bowl.

How to Perfect Bacon Brussels Sprouts Butternut Squash Pasta

To ensure your Bacon Brussels Sprouts Butternut Squash Pasta turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold flavors: Use fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra layer of flavor in your dish.
• Cook pasta al dente: This ensures the pasta remains firm and absorbs the sauce without becoming mushy.
• Don’t skip the lemon juice: The acidity from lemon brightens up the dish and balances the richness of the cheese and vegetables.
• Use high-quality cheese: Opt for freshly grated parmesan rather than pre-packaged for better flavor and texture.
• Season each layer: Season the vegetables, pasta, and sauce as you go to build depth in flavors throughout the dish.

Best Side Dishes for Bacon Brussels Sprouts Butternut Squash Pasta

Complement your main dish with side dishes that enhance its seasonal flavors. Here are some excellent options.

1. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers adds color and nutrition.
2. Quinoa Salad: Light and nutritious, a quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers provides a refreshing contrast.
3. Steamed Broccoli: A simple steamed broccoli side offers crunch and keeps things healthy without overpowering the main dish.
4. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries provide sweetness that balances well with savory pasta flavors.
5. Creamy Polenta: Creamy polenta serves as a comforting base that pairs nicely with robust pasta dishes.
6. Brussels Sprouts Chips: Baked Brussels sprouts chips offer crunchiness while echoing the flavors in your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking this Bacon Brussels Sprouts Butternut Squash Pasta can be a delightful experience, but avoiding common mistakes will enhance the dish.

• Bold seasoning – Not seasoning the vegetables and pasta adequately can lead to blandness. Always taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process.
• Bold overcooking pasta – Cooking the pasta too long can make it mushy. Follow package instructions and aim for al dente for the best texture.
• Bold improper vegetable cutting – Cutting vegetables into uneven sizes leads to uneven cooking. Ensure all pieces are the same size for consistent roasting.
• Bold skipping reserved pasta water – Forgetting to reserve pasta water means missing out on a creamy sauce. This starchy water helps bind everything together.
• Bold neglecting freshness – Using dried herbs instead of fresh can result in less flavor. Whenever possible, opt for fresh ingredients for a vibrant taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the pasta to cool before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing Bacon Brussels Sprouts Butternut Squash Pasta

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months.
• Make sure to remove as much air as possible from bags before sealing.

Reheating Bacon Brussels Sprouts Butternut Squash Pasta

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered with foil for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot throughout.
• Stovetop – Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Bacon Brussels Sprouts Butternut Squash Pasta.

Can I substitute other vegetables in this Bacon Brussels Sprouts Butternut Squash Pasta?

Yes! Feel free to use seasonal vegetables like spinach or kale. Just ensure they cook well with your chosen method.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

You can replace chicken or turkey with plant-based proteins like chickpeas or tofu, and omit any meat entirely.

What type of pasta works best for Bacon Brussels Sprouts Butternut Squash Pasta?

Rigatoni, penne, or farfalle are great options due to their ability to hold sauce well. Choose your favorite!

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can roast the vegetables and cook the pasta in advance, then combine them just before serving for fresh flavors.

How do I enhance the flavor of my Bacon Brussels Sprouts Butternut Squash Pasta?

Try adding spices like nutmeg or sage, or include nuts such as walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Bacon Brussels Sprouts Butternut Squash Pasta is a flavorful blend of seasonal ingredients that come together beautifully. It’s versatile enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for entertaining guests. Feel free to customize it by adding different vegetables or adjusting seasonings to suit your taste!