Roasted Butternut, Chicken Sausage & Spinach Soup One-Pot Pasta Bowls

Oh, there’s something so wonderfully cozy about a big bowl of soup that doubles as pasta dinner! This dish instantly reminds me of chilly nights when I wanted something warm and hearty without turning on every pot and pan in the kitchen. Imagine the sweet, caramelized flavor of roasted butternut squash mingling with savory chicken sausage, tender spinach, and pasta swimming in a rich broth—all cooked together in just one pot. It’s like giving yourself a comforting hug after a long day. Plus, the colorful, vibrant bowl that results practically begs you to dig in and savor every spoonful. Trust me, this recipe is going to be your next weeknight superstar.

Quick Facts

• Yield: Serves 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Ingredients

For the Main Dish:

• 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 pounds), peeled, seeded, and cubed
• 1 lb chicken sausage (mild or spicy, sliced into ½-inch rounds)
• 8 oz baby spinach
• 8 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or shells work great)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, shredded (optional, for serving)

How I Make It

Step 1:

Start by tossing the cubed butternut squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Spread it out on a baking sheet and roast at 425°F for 20-25 minutes until golden and caramelized on the edges. Roasting the squash first enhances its natural sweetness, giving the soup that warm depth of flavor.

Step 2:

While squash roasts, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes, cooking for another minute until fragrant—your kitchen will smell incredible right now!

Step 3:

Add the sliced chicken sausage to the pot and cook until browned on all sides, about 6-8 minutes. The sausage will release some fat and flavor that’s key for building the broth’s savory base.

Step 4:

Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a simmer. Now add the uncooked pasta and stir well so it’s submerged. Cook the pasta in the broth according to package directions—usually 10-12 minutes—stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5:

Once the pasta is nearly al dente, stir in the roasted butternut squash and baby spinach. The spinach will wilt quickly, adding a fresh pop of green and a silky texture to the soup. Let it all simmer together for another 2-3 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 6:

Taste for seasoning and add salt and pepper as needed. Ladle the soup-pasta combo into bowls and top with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if you like. Serve hot and enjoy a colorful, comforting meal in one big cozy bowl.

Variations & Tips

• Swap chicken sausage for spicy Italian or turkey sausage depending on your heat preference.
• Use gluten-free pasta or smaller shapes like elbow macaroni for a different texture.
• For a creamier soup, stir in ½ cup of cream or coconut milk at the end just before serving.
• Adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors—you’d never guess it was all cooked in one pot!
• If you like it heartier, toss in a can of white beans or chickpeas with the sausage for extra protein.

How I Like to Serve It

This soup-pasta bowl is perfect for a chilly fall or winter evening, especially with a rustic crusty bread for dipping. It also makes an easy, crowd-pleasing dinner during busy weeknights or casual weekends. Pair it with a simple green salad dressed in vinaigrette to add some crisp freshness alongside the warm, mellow flavors.

Notes

• Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or water to loosen it back up.
• You can roast the butternut squash a day ahead to save time on busy nights.

Closing: This one-pot wonder always pulls me back because it’s simple, satisfying, and full of those cozy, layered flavors that remind you why home cooking is the best.