Creamy Rigatoni with Butternut Squash and Spicy Sausage Recipe

If you’re on the lookout for a cozy, comforting pasta dish that checks all the boxes without being fussy, I’ve got just the thing for you. This Creamy Rigatoni with Butternut Squash and Spicy Sausage Recipe is one of my go-to dinners when I want something rich, a little spicy, and packed with fall flavors. The sweetness of the butternut squash paired with the kick from the sausage creates such a satisfying balance—you’ll find yourself going back for seconds (and maybe even thirds!).

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient plays a role in layering the flavors here. The butternut squash brings sweetness and creaminess without extra cream, while the spicy sausage adds that irresistible punch. I always recommend fresh garlic and Swiss chard because they brighten up the dish with freshness and texture.

• Olive oil: Essential for sautéing and adding a fruity richness.
• Butternut squash: The star of the show—choose ones that are firm and bright orange for the best flavor and texture.
• Red onion: Adds a mild sweetness and beautiful color contrast.
• Spicy Italian sausage: Look for one with natural casing removed; it’ll crumble perfectly and give the dish its delicious kick.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is a must for that classic aromatic base.
• Swiss chard: Adds a lovely, tender green bite and soak up the flavors beautifully.
• Red chili flakes: The secret weapon for just enough heat—adjust according to your spice tolerance!
• Salt and pepper: To bring out every nuance of flavor.
• Rigatoni: The perfect pasta shape here—the hollow tubes catch the creamy sauce in every bite.
• Crème fraîche: Brings that silky creaminess without being overly heavy.
• Grated parmesan: Adds depth and umami, plus a nutty finish to round everything out.

Variations

I love making this Creamy Rigatoni with Butternut Squash and Spicy Sausage Recipe my own by tweaking the ingredients based on what’s in season or who’s joining me at the table. Feel free to get creative with these ideas—you’ll find it’s a very forgiving recipe.

• Vegetarian variation: I often swap the spicy sausage for spicy vegetarian sausage or even crumbled soyrizo for a plant-based kick, and it works just as well!
• Greens swap: Tried kale or spinach when I was out of chard and it turned out great, just watch cooking times as spinach wilts faster.
• Spice level: If you prefer milder dishes, reduce or omit the chili flakes, or swap spicy sausage for mild Italian sausage.
• Cheese alternatives: Using Pecorino Romano instead of Parmesan adds a sharper tang that I quite enjoy on occasion.

How to Make Creamy Rigatoni with Butternut Squash and Spicy Sausage Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Butternut Squash Until Tender and Golden

Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Toss in the peeled and diced butternut squash and let it cook, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned and starting to soften—about 6 to 7 minutes. I found that patience here helps the squash develop a beautiful caramelized flavor, so don’t rush. It won’t be fully cooked yet, but that’s perfect for the next steps.

Step 2: Add Onion and Brown the Spicy Sausage

Next, add the diced red onion and cook for about 4 minutes until it gets tender and slightly translucent. Then, add the spicy Italian sausage, breaking it into smaller chunks with your spoon or spatula. Let the sausage brown neatly for 3 minutes or so—it adds a delicious meaty depth that’s the heartbeat of this dish.

Step 3: Wilt the Swiss Chard and Add Garlic and Spice

Throw in the minced garlic, chopped Swiss chard, and red chili flakes. Give everything a good stir and cook until the chard wilts into the mixture, about 3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper here, then keep the pan warm as you boil the pasta.

Step 4: Cook Rigatoni Until Al Dente and Reserve Pasta Water

While your savory mixture is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook until just al dente—usually around eight minutes. Don’t forget to reserve about ¼ cup of the starchy pasta water before draining; it makes all the difference for that silky sauce texture later on.

Step 5: Combine Everything for That Creamy Finish

Immediately add the drained rigatoni to the sausage and veggie mixture along with the reserved pasta water, crème fraîche, and grated parmesan. Stir everything well over medium heat for 1 to 2 minutes—this is where the magic happens! The sauce becomes smooth and coats every noodle. Taste and adjust salt and pepper, then sprinkle extra parmesan on top before serving.

How to Serve Creamy Rigatoni with Butternut Squash and Spicy Sausage Recipe

Garnishes

I usually top each bowl with a generous shower of extra parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh cracked black pepper. Sometimes I’ll add a little drizzle of good quality olive oil or scatter fresh chopped parsley for a pop of green and freshness—it really lifts the flavors and adds a nice finishing touch.

Side Dishes

My family loves pairing this with a crisp green salad dressed simply with lemon and olive oil. Crusty garlic bread or a warm baguette makes perfect sense too, for soaking up every last bit of that creamy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

If I’m serving this for guests, I like to plate it up in deep bowls with a sprig of fresh thyme or sage on top. Setting it on a rustic wooden board, surrounded by small bowls of extra cheese, chili flakes, and fresh bread, turns dinner into a fun experience that gets everyone chatting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I usually find the flavors develop even more overnight, so it’s great for quick lunches or a no-fuss dinner the next day.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this dish a few times, but I recommend freezing before adding the crème fraîche if possible, as cream-based sauces can sometimes separate. Freeze in portions, then thaw in the fridge overnight. Once thawed, gently reheat on the stove adding a splash of milk or broth to bring back creaminess.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring often to prevent sticking. Add a little more crème fraîche or parmesan to revive the sauce’s creamy texture if it looks a bit dry after refrigerating.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Rigatoni with Butternut Squash and Spicy Sausage Recipe holds a special place on my dinner rotation because it’s so reliable and delicious every single time. It’s one of those meals that feels like a treat but comes together fast enough to make weeknights less stressful. I hope you’ll give it a try, and once you do, it might just become one of your favorites too. Happy cooking!

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