Name: Cozy Butternut Squash and Apple Hash with Sausage Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (or avocado oil for high-heat cooking); 1 pound Breakfast Sausage (or turkey/chicken sausage); 1 medium Onion (yellow or white); 4 cups Butternut Squash (diced); 2 cups Apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, diced); 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (adjust based on taste); 0.25 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg (sparingly); to taste Salt; to taste Pepper; 0.25 cup Fresh Parsley (chopped, for garnish)

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As I sautéed the vibrant butternut squash, I felt an undeniable wave of warmth flooding my kitchen, almost transporting me to a cozy autumn afternoon. This Butternut Squash and Apple Hash with Sausage blends the comforting sweetness of squash and apples with the savory richness of sausage, making it not just a meal, but a hug in a bowl. What I love most about this recipe is that it’s beginner-friendly and fits seamlessly into any meal of the day—whether as a hearty brunch or a delightful dinner. Plus, it’s packed with nutritious ingredients that will leave you feeling satisfied and energized. Are you ready to dive into this delicious fall fusion?

Why is this hash a must-try?

Comforting Comfort Food: The warm combination of butternut squash and apples creates a harmonious blend, perfect for cozy meals.

Beginner-Friendly: Even novice cooks can whip up this dish with ease, making it an excellent choice for all skill levels.

Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and fiber, each serving is a wholesome indulgence.

Versatile Dish: Enjoy it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, making it a true crowd-pleaser.

Easy Cleanup: A one-pan recipe not only simplifies cooking but also cleanup, allowing you to enjoy your meal stress-free.

Pair it with my Skillet Breakfast Hash or consider a fresh Apple Cranberry Coleslaw to elevate your dining experience!

Butternut Squash and Apple Hash Ingredients

• Get ready to create a delightful dish!

For the Hash

Olive Oil – A great cooking medium to help brown the sausage and sauté the vegetables; avocado oil is a fantastic high-heat substitute.
Breakfast Sausage – Adds that savory, meaty flavor; consider turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter alternative or spice it up with chorizo for added heat.
Onion – Brings sweetness and depth to the meal; yellow or white onions work well, or use green onions for a milder option.
Butternut Squash – The star of the show, delivering a creamy texture and natural sweetness; swap with sweet potatoes for a different taste experience.
Apples – Provide bursts of tartness that balance the savory elements; Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are ideal choices, but any preferred variety will do.
Ground Cinnamon – Enriches the dish with warm, aromatic spice; adjust based on your taste preference.
Ground Nutmeg – Adds complexity and warmth; a little goes a long way, so use it sparingly.
Salt and Pepper – Essential for enhancing the overall flavor; feel free to adjust to your liking.
Fresh Parsley – Lends a touch of freshness and color at the finish; cilantro can be used for a different herbaceous note.

This Butternut Squash and Apple Hash with Sausage not only sounds delicious—it’s also packed with flavor and nourishment, making every bite a joyful experience!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Butternut Squash and Apple Hash with Sausage

Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the breakfast sausage, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside, leaving the flavorful drippings in the pan.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed. Toss in the finely chopped onion, sautéing for about 3 minutes until it becomes translucent and aromatic. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking without browning, allowing the onion to sweeten and deepen the flavor as a base for your Butternut Squash and Apple Hash.

Step 3: Cook the Butternut Squash
Add the diced butternut squash to the skillet, stirring to coat in the onion mixture. Cook undisturbed for 5 minutes, allowing the squash to caramelize on one side. Afterward, stir gently and continue to cook for another 5 minutes until the squash is golden and slightly tender, creating a beautiful contrast with the sweetness of the onions.

Step 4: Incorporate the Apples
Next, add the diced apples to the skillet, stirring them into the squash mixture. Cook everything together for about 5 minutes, or until both the squash and apples have softened. The apples should still hold their shape, while the squash becomes creamy, creating a delightful blend of textures in your Butternut Squash and Apple Hash.

Step 5: Season to Taste
Sprinkle in the ground cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper, mixing everything thoroughly to combine. The warm spices will enhance the comforting flavors of the hash. Allow the mix to cook for an additional minute, ensuring the spices are aromatic and evenly distributed throughout the dish, adding depth to each bite.

Step 6: Reintroduce the Sausage
Return the browned sausage to the skillet, stirring well to combine it with the butternut squash and apple mixture. Continue cooking for 2-3 minutes, or until the sausage is heated through, soaking up the flavorful essence of the hash. Your Butternut Squash and Apple Hash with Sausage is starting to look truly delectable!

Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the hearty hash warm, either on its own, alongside crusty bread, or atop a bed of greens, making for a comforting meal that is ready to impress your loved ones.

Butternut Squash and Apple Hash Variations

Feel free to experiment and customize this delicious hash to suit your taste and dietary needs!

Vegetarian Option: Swap the sausage for chickpeas, diced tofu, or tempeh for a hearty plant-based alternative. This change adds protein while keeping the dish filling and satisfying.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the mix for a delightful heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the squash and apples.
Herb Twist: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to elevate the dish’s flavor profile. These aromatic additions give your hash a fragrant twist that enhances its comforting essence.
Sweet Potato Swap: Replace butternut squash with sweet potatoes for a different taste experience. The sweet potatoes will provide a similar texture with a slightly different sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the apples.
Nutty Crunch: Top the finished hash with toasted pecans or walnuts for added crunch and richness. This delightful finish enhances the hash’s texture and brings a nutty flavor to each bite.
Fruit Variations: Experiment with different apple varieties like Fuji or Gala for a unique flavor. You could even try adding dried cranberries or raisins for bursts of sweetness that complement the savory elements.
Creamy Addition: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt just before serving for a tangy creaminess that perfectly complements the dish’s flavors. It’s an indulgent twist that takes your hash to the next level.

If you’re looking for more ideas, consider serving this delectable hash alongside my Apple Iced Tea for a refreshing drink or pair it with a hearty Grilled Sausage Grazing board for an impressive brunch spread!

Make Ahead Options

These Butternut Squash and Apple Hash with Sausage are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the butternut squash and apples up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in separate airtight containers to prevent browning. The sausage can be browned and cooked ahead of time as well; refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the onion, toss in the prepped squash and apples, and reintroduce the sausage until heated through. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious, homemade meal with minimal effort after a long day!

What to Serve with Butternut Squash and Apple Hash with Sausage

Imagine a vibrant plate filled with warmth and comfort, ready to complement your delightful hash.

Crispy Crusty Bread: Perfect for scooping up the hash, adding a satisfying crunch that balances its creamy texture.
Fried Eggs: Add a sunny-side-up egg on top for a protein boost and a rich yolk that mixes in beautifully with the flavors.
Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their crispy exterior and earthy flavor contrast nicely with the sweetness of the hash, creating a well-rounded meal.
Mixed Greens Salad: A fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette brings brightness, cutting through the richness of the sausage and squash.
Maple-Glazed Carrots: The natural sweetness of roasted carrots enhances the dish while adding another delightful layer of flavor.
Homemade Applesauce: A spoonful of spiced applesauce creates a nostalgic complement that echoes the apple notes in the hash.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp Chardonnay pairs wonderfully, providing a refreshing counterpoint to the savory and sweet elements.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: For brunch, a creamy, spiced latte offers a festive touch that mirrors the warmth of your cozy hash.
Vanilla Ice Cream: For dessert, consider a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream—its creaminess offsets the warm spices perfectly!
Herb-Infused Iced Tea: A refreshing drink option, herbal iced tea infused with mint or basil enhances the freshness and adds a lovely touch.

Expert Tips for Butternut Squash and Apple Hash

• Don’t Rush the Cooking: Cooking the squash at medium heat allows it to caramelize beautifully. Avoid high heat, which can lead to steaming instead of browning.

• Ingredient Substitutions: Feel free to substitute with sweet potatoes or different sausage varieties, but remain mindful of the cooking times for each ingredient in this Butternut Squash and Apple Hash.

• Optimal Apple Choice: Use Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples for the perfect contrast against the savory sausage; they hold their shape well throughout cooking.

• Fresh Herbs Matter: Always add fresh parsley at the end for a burst of color and freshness that brightens up the dish. Dried herbs won’t deliver the same effect.

• Spice Smartly: Start with smaller amounts of nutmeg and cinnamon; you can always add more later. This keeps the flavors balanced and inviting.

Storage Tips for Butternut Squash and Apple Hash

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the hash is cooled to room temperature before sealing to maintain optimal freshness.

Freezer: This Butternut Squash and Apple Hash can be frozen for up to 3 months. Divide into individual portions for easy reheating later on.

Reheating: For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

Tip: If freezing, consider leaving out the fresh parsley until serving time to keep the flavors vibrant and fresh upon reheating.

Butternut Squash and Apple Hash with Sausage Recipe FAQs

What’s the best way to select ripe butternut squash?
Absolutely! When choosing butternut squash, look for ones that feel heavy for their size, with a firm, unblemished skin and a matte finish. Avoid ones with dark spots or soft spots, as these can indicate spoilage. A good squash will have a deep, tan color and a small amount of green at the base, indicating ripeness.

How should I store leftover Butternut Squash and Apple Hash?
To keep your hash fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. It’s best to let it cool to room temperature first to maintain its flavor. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before serving to enjoy the delightful combination of flavors all over again!

Can I freeze Butternut Squash and Apple Hash?
Sure thing! This dish freezes beautifully. Portion the hash into individual servings and place them in airtight containers or freezer bags. Make sure to leave out the fresh parsley until you’re ready to serve; this helps maintain freshness. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through; this will take around 5-7 minutes on the stove.

What if my hash turns out too watery?
If you find your Butternut Squash and Apple Hash is too watery, don’t worry! Simply return it to the skillet and cook it over medium heat for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing some liquid to evaporate. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking. You could also consider adding a little cornstarch mixed with water as a thickening agent if desired.

Is this recipe suitable for those with nut allergies?
Yes! This Butternut Squash and Apple Hash is nut-free as it uses common ingredients like olive oil and sausage. However, always check the specific brands of sausage and any other pre-packaged items for nut-based additives, just to be safe.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Very much! For a vegetarian version, simply swap the sausage for chickpeas, diced tofu, or tempeh. You can season these alternatives with your favorite spices to capture that savory essence. Just follow the same cooking process, and you’ll have a hearty, meat-free Butternut Squash and Apple Hash that’s sure to delight!