Cozy Fusilli with Pumpkin and Sausage Recipe Delight

Fusilli with Pumpkin and Sausage is like a warm hug on a chilly autumn day. Imagine the hearty sweetness of roasted pumpkin mingling with juicy sausage, all wrapped up in tender, spiral pasta that practically dances on your plate. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around, as they wonder what deliciousness you’ve conjured up this time.

This dish transports me back to my grandmother’s kitchen, where laughter echoed off the walls as we slurped up our dinner together. It’s perfect for cozy family dinners or spontaneous gatherings with friends who just can’t resist a bowl of comfort food. Get ready for an explosion of flavors that will make your taste buds do a little happy dance!

Ingredients for Fusilli with Pumpkin and Sausage

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

• Fusilli Pasta: This spiral-shaped pasta holds onto sauces beautifully, enhancing every bite with flavor.
• Pumpkin Puree: Use canned or fresh pumpkin puree; it adds creaminess and a subtle sweetness that’s hard to resist.
• Italian Sausage: Choose spicy or mild sausage based on your preference; it adds depth and richness to the dish.
• Onion: A medium onion provides a savory base; sautéing brings out its natural sweetness.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves add aromatic flavor; the more, the merrier!
• Olive Oil: A drizzle of good-quality olive oil enhances the overall taste while keeping everything moist.
• Dried Sage: This herb complements pumpkin perfectly; it brings an earthy warmth that ties all flavors together.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate every ingredient; use them generously but wisely!

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

How to Make Fusilli with Pumpkin and Sausage

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 fusilli pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside while you work on the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Once hot, crumble in the Italian sausage and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Aromatic Onions

In the same skillet, toss in chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until they become translucent and fragrant—about 3-4 minutes. Your kitchen will smell divine at this point!

Step 4: Pump Up the Flavor

Now stir in the pumpkin puree along with dried sage, salt, and pepper. Let everything simmer together for about five minutes until well combined. Add a splash of pasta cooking water if needed for extra creaminess.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the sautéed sausage back into the skillet with your pumpkin sauce mixture. Gently fold in the cooked fusilli until every spiral is coated in that heavenly concoction.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Transfer your beautiful creation onto plates or into bowls. Drizzle with a bit more olive oil if desired and garnish with freshly cracked pepper or even some grated cheese if you’re feeling extra fancy!

Enjoy this comforting bowl of Fusilli with Pumpkin and Sausage any night of the week! Grab your fork—it’s time for dinner!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the sausage in a pan, letting those savory flavors mingle. While that sizzles, cook your fusilli in salted water until al dente. Once that’s done, toss in pumpkin puree and let everything come together beautifully.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the sausage for turkey or add some sautéed greens like spinach or kale. A sprinkle of nutmeg or a dash of chili flakes can also elevate the dish to new heights of yumminess.

Storing & Reheating

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to keep it creamy and delicious.

Sometimes I whip this dish up when friends visit, and their smiles say it all—it’s like an instant hug in a bowl!

FAQs:

How do I cook Fusilli with Pumpkin and Sausage?

Cooking Fusilli with Pumpkin and Sausage is straightforward. Start by boiling the fusilli in salted water until al dente. In a separate pan, sauté sausage until browned. Add diced pumpkin, garlic, and spices, cooking until the pumpkin softens. Combine the sausage mixture with the drained pasta and stir in some cream for richness. Finish with grated cheese on top for added flavor.

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can use other types of pasta to make your Fusilli with Pumpkin and Sausage dish. While fusilli works well due to its spiral shape holding sauce, penne or farfalle are great alternatives. Adjust cooking times slightly based on the pasta you choose, ensuring it’s cooked al dente for the best texture in your meal.

What are some variations of Fusilli with Pumpkin and Sausage?

Fusilli with Pumpkin and Sausage has many delicious variations. You can add spinach or kale for extra greens, or substitute turkey sausage for a lighter option. Consider incorporating nuts like pine nuts or walnuts for added crunch. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like sage or thyme can enhance the flavor profile even further.

Is Fusilli with Pumpkin and Sausage a healthy meal option?

Fusilli with Pumpkin and Sausage can be a healthy meal depending on your ingredients. Using whole grain fusilli increases fiber content, while pumpkin adds vitamins A and C. Opting for lean sausage reduces saturated fat. Control portion sizes and pair the dish with a salad to create a balanced meal that satisfies without excess calories.

Conclusion for Fusilli with Pumpkin and Sausage:

Fusilli with Pumpkin and Sausage is a delightful dish that combines comforting flavors in an easy-to-make recipe. With its rich pumpkin sweetness paired perfectly with savory sausage, it offers both taste and nutrition. Feel free to explore variations that suit your palate while keeping the key elements intact. Enjoy this satisfying meal any night of the week!

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Fusilli with Pumpkin and Sausage

• Author: Lilly
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves: 4
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

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Description

Savor the cozy flavors of this Fusilli with Pumpkin and Turkey Sausage, blending sweet pumpkin and savory turkey sausage into a delightful dish perfect for chilly evenings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz fusilli pasta
• 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
• 1 lb turkey sausage (spicy or mild)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried sage
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. 1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add fusilli pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. 2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, crumble in the turkey sausage and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. 3. In the same skillet, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
4. 4. Stir in pumpkin puree, dried sage, salt, and pepper. Let everything simmer for about five minutes to meld flavors; add a splash of pasta water if needed for creaminess.
5. 5. Return the sautéed turkey sausage back into the skillet with the pumpkin mixture. Gently fold in the cooked fusilli until well coated.
6. 6. Transfer to plates or bowls. Drizzle with extra olive oil if desired and garnish with freshly cracked pepper.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 240g)
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: - For a healthier twist, substitute turkey sausage with chicken sausage or plant-based alternatives. - Add sautéed greens like spinach or kale for an extra nutrient boost. - A sprinkle of nutmeg or chili flakes can enhance flavor profiles.