Warm your soul with this aromatic italian sausage butternut squash pizza

Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure as we delve into the delectable world of Italian sausage butternut squash. This vibrant dish is a harmonious blend of savory Italian sausage, sweet and earthy butternut squash, and aromatic spices that will tantalize your taste buds and warm your soul this fall.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground Italian sausage
• 1 large butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Olive oil, for greasing the pan

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Brown the sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the Italian sausage. Drain any excess fat.
3. Sauté the vegetables: Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet with the sausage. Sauté until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
4. Add the butternut squash: Stir in the cubed butternut squash, oregano, basil, and black pepper. Cook until the squash is lightly browned.
5. Transfer to a baking dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and transfer the sausage-squash mixture to it.
6. Bake: Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is tender and slightly browned.
7. Top with Parmesan cheese: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the dish and return it to the oven for 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Variations

• Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to give the dish a touch of heat.

• Herbed: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage for extra flavor.

• Creamy: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or milk during the last 5 minutes of baking for a richer texture.

Serving Suggestions

• As a main dish: Serve with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad.

• As a side dish: Pair with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or your favorite pasta dish.

• In a soup or stew: Add the sausage-squash mixture to a simmering pot of soup or stew for added flavor and texture.

Health Benefits of Italian Sausage Butternut Squash

• Rich in nutrients: Butternut squash is a good source of vitamins A, C, and potassium.

• Low in calories: With only around 100 calories per cup, this dish is a guilt-free indulgence.

• High in fiber: The combination of sausage and squash provides a good amount of dietary fiber, which supports digestive health.

• Good source of protein: Italian sausage is a lean protein source, helping to keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Tips

• Choose the right squash: Look for butternut squash that is firm and has a deep orange color.

• Roast the squash separately: If you prefer a more caramelized squash, you can roast it separately at a slightly higher temperature (425°F) for 20-25 minutes.

• Don’t overcook the sausage: Overcooking the sausage can make it dry and tough. Cook it just until it is browned and no longer pink.

• Let it rest: Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Frequently Discussed Topics

• Can I use other types of sausage? Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or pork sausage instead of Italian sausage.

• How can I make it ahead of time? You can prepare the sausage-squash mixture up to 2 days ahead of time. Simply store it in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the cooked dish for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

• What side dishes can I serve with it? Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad would all pair well with this dish.

• Is it gluten-free? Yes, this dish is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free Italian sausage and breadcrumbs.