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Butternut Squash, Kale, and Sausage Baked Pasta
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 people

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Large Skillet
  • Baking Sheet
  • 9x13 Baking Dish

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces penne pasta
  • 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
  • 4 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
  • 4 cups kale, stems removed and leaves chopped
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • Toss the butternut squash cubes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes until tender.
  • While the squash roasts, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Add the onion and cook for 4 minutes until softened.
  • Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add the chopped kale and remaining salt and pepper. Cook for 3 minutes until the kale wilts.
  • In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, roasted squash, and sausage-kale mixture. Stir gently to mix.
  • Transfer everything to a 9x13 baking dish. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the top.
  • Bake for 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and lightly golden. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Roast the squash ahead on a separate sheet so it stays in distinct cubes instead of turning mushy when mixed. If the kale seems too bitter, add an extra pinch of salt during the wilting step to balance it. Leftovers reheat well in a 350 degree oven with a splash of water to loosen the pasta.
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Equipment: Large Pot, Large Skillet, Baking Sheet, 9x13 Baking Dish