Irresistible Bacon, Brussels Sprouts, Butternut Squash Pasta

Bacon, Brussels Sprouts, Butternut Squash Pasta is the kind of dish that makes you weak in the knees. Picture this: tender pasta enveloped in a creamy sauce, mingling with crispy bacon, sweet butternut squash, and earthy Brussels sprouts. The aroma wafts through the kitchen like a warm hug, promising a flavor explosion that will send your taste buds into overdrive.

Every time I whip up this culinary masterpiece, I’m transported back to cozy family dinners where laughter filled the air and my grandma’s secret ingredient (a sprinkle of love) was always added. It’s perfect for chilly evenings or when you want to impress friends without putting on a full cooking show. Trust me; your palate will thank you for this incredible experience.

Ingredients for Bacon, Brussels Sprouts, Butternut Squash Pasta

For more inspiration, check out this Spicy Chorizo Sweet Potato Chili recipe.

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Pasta: Use your favorite type—fettuccine or penne work well for holding onto the sauce.
• Bacon: Go for thick-cut bacon; it adds an extra crunch and flavor punch.
• Brussels Sprouts: Choose fresh ones that are bright green and firm; they’ll provide great texture.
• Butternut Squash: Peel and cube it into small pieces for even cooking and sweetness.
• Heavy Cream: This gives your sauce a rich texture that clings beautifully to the pasta.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best; it adds nutty depth to your dish.
• Garlic: Minced fresh garlic elevates the flavors in this dish—don’t skimp on it!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Bacon, Brussels Sprouts, Butternut Squash Pasta

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about one cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 2: Prepare the Bacon

In a large skillet over medium heat, add chopped bacon. Cook until crispy and golden brown—this should take about 8-10 minutes. Remove bacon from the pan and let it drain on paper towels.

Step 3: Sauté Brussels Sprouts

In the same skillet with some leftover bacon grease (because why not?), add halved Brussels sprouts. Sauté them until they’re tender and slightly caramelized—approximately 5-7 minutes.

Step 4: Add Butternut Squash

Toss in cubed butternut squash with minced garlic into the skillet with Brussels sprouts. Stir occasionally until everything is soft—around another 8-10 minutes.

Step 5: Create the Sauce

Pour heavy cream into the skillet with veggies while stirring gently. Add reserved pasta water gradually until you achieve your desired consistency. Then mix in grated Parmesan cheese until melted—this creates pure magic!

Step 6: Combine Everything

Finally, fold in cooked pasta and crispy bacon into the skillet with sauce and veggies. Stir well so every noodle gets coated in that creamy goodness!

Transfer to plates and drizzle with more Parmesan cheese for the perfect finishing touch.

Now you have made a delightful Bacon, Brussels Sprouts, Butternut Squash Pasta that’s sure to be a hit at any dinner table! Enjoy each bite as if you just struck gold because trust me—you deserve it!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking your bacon until crispy, then sauté the Brussels sprouts in the rendered fat for maximum flavor. While they cook, roast the butternut squash until tender, and boil your pasta. Combine everything for an effortless, mouthwatering dish.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the bacon for turkey bacon or even mushrooms for a vegetarian option. Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or crushed red pepper flakes to elevate the flavor profile. Customize it based on what you have in your pantry!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to keep it moist and delicious.

Sometimes I whip this dish up when friends visit, and their reactions are priceless! Watching them devour every last bite feels like winning a small culinary award in my kitchen.

FAQs:

What is Bacon, Brussels Sprouts, Butternut Squash Pasta?

Bacon, Brussels Sprouts, Butternut Squash Pasta is a delightful dish that combines savory bacon with roasted Brussels sprouts and sweet butternut squash. The ingredients blend beautifully with pasta, creating a comforting yet gourmet meal. Kale Roasted Yam Salad This dish not only highlights the flavors of autumn but also provides a nutritious option for family dinners or gatherings.

How do I cook the perfect pasta for this recipe?

To cook the perfect pasta for Bacon, Brussels Sprouts, Butternut Squash Pasta, start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and reserve some cooking water. Mixing in this water can help create a creamy sauce when combined with other ingredients, ensuring every bite is flavorful and satisfying.

Can I make Bacon, Brussels Sprouts, Butternut Squash Pasta vegetarian?

Yes! You can easily adapt Bacon, Brussels Sprouts, Butternut Squash Pasta to be vegetarian. Simply replace the bacon with smoked paprika or liquid smoke for flavor. Spinach Mushroom Quiche You may also add more vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers to enhance taste and texture while keeping it hearty and satisfying without meat.

What are some variations of this pasta recipe?

There are several delicious variations of Bacon, Brussels Sprouts, Butternut Squash Pasta you can try. For instance, you could add nuts like walnuts or pine nuts for crunch. Incorporating different cheeses such as goat cheese or parmesan will elevate the dish further. Gooey Cheese Fondue Additionally, experimenting with herbs like thyme or rosemary can bring out unique flavor profiles that elevate your meal.

Conclusion for Bacon, Brussels Sprouts, Butternut Squash Pasta:

Bacon, Brussels Sprouts, Butternut Squash Pasta is a wonderful dish that balances savory and sweet flavors. By combining crispy bacon with roasted vegetables and pasta, you create an inviting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Roasted Root Vegetable Medley Remember to experiment with variations to suit your taste preferences! Enjoy this comforting recipe that showcases seasonal ingredients while delivering satisfaction in every bite. For more inspiration, check out this Flavorful Huevos Rancheros recipe.