Ingredients

2 -3 tablespoons olive oil
1 1/2 lbs butternut squash , peeled , seeded and cut into 1 inch chunks
1 1/4 lbs sweet Italian sausage , crumbled , I used spicy , can use more
2 tablespoons garlic , minced
1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes , add more as desired , omit if using spicy Italian sausage
1/4 cup dry white wine
1/4 cup chicken broth
3 tablespoons fresh sage , finely chopped , I use more , I have used dried rubbed sage
8 ounces orecchiette ( little lambs ears pasta )
1/2 cup parmesan cheese or 1/2 cup parmigiano-reggiano cheese , grated
fresh ground pepper , to taste
salt , as needed
Orichette pasta with butternut squash, sage & Italian sausage is the perfect hearty meal on a cold winter's day. The sweet butternut squash pairs perfectly with the spicy sausage and fragrant sage, making it an incredibly flavorful dish. The sauce for the pasta is made with white wine and chicken broth, adding a depth of flavor to the dish that is both complex and delicious. Parmesan cheese is then added, giving the entire dish a light and savory creaminess that will leave you wanting more. Despite the high caloric intake of this meal, it is worth it to indulge every once in a while in such a scrumptious and filling meal.

Instructions

1.Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2.Add butternut squash and cook until tender, about 10 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3.Add sausage to the same skillet and cook until browned and cooked through.
4.Add garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet and cook for a minute or until garlic is fragrant.
5.Add white wine and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
6.Add fresh sage and butternut squash back to the pan and stir to combine.
7.Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and add to the pan with sausage and butternut squash.
8.Add Parmesan cheese and fresh black pepper, and stir until well combined.

PROS

This pasta dish is filling, warming, and packed with flavor.
The combination of sweet butternut squash, spicy sausage, and fragrant sage is delicious.

It is also easy to make and can be prepared in under an hour.

CONS

The sausage and cheese in this meal make it high in calories and fat.
It may not be the best option for individuals on a strict diet.

There is also a risk of overcooking the butternut squash, which can make it mushy and unappetizing.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Butternut squash is a good source of vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, making it beneficial for gut health, immunity, and fighting free radicals.
Sage has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that can potentially improve brain function and support digestive health.
However, the high fat content in the sausage and cheese should be consumed in moderation.

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