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Easy One-Pot Delicata Squash and Sausage

delicata squash and sausage - featured image

A comforting, one-pot weeknight dinner featuring creamy delicata squash and savory Italian sausage, finished with maple syrup and fresh sage for a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs delicata squash, washed, halved, seeds removed, and sliced into 1/2 inch half-moons
  • 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or hot), casings removed
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
  • 2 tbsp real maple syrup
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp fresh sage, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Wash the delicata squash thoroughly. Slice it in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, and slice into 1/2 inch thick half-moon shapes.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage, broken into small chunks, and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through.
  3. Use a slotted spoon to remove the sausage, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
  4. Lower heat to medium. Add the diced onion to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
  5. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  6. Return the sausage to the pan. Add the squash slices, chicken broth, maple syrup, and Dijon mustard. Stir to coat everything in the sauce.
  7. Reduce heat to low, cover the pan with a lid, and simmer for 10-12 minutes until the squash is tender when pierced with a fork.
  8. Remove the lid, sprinkle fresh sage over the top, and stir gently. Cook uncovered for 2 more minutes to reduce the sauce slightly.
  9. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the pan when browning the sausage to ensure proper searing. Cut squash pieces uniformly for even cooking. If the sauce becomes too watery, simmer uncovered longer. The dish can be made vegetarian by using plant-based sausage or omitting meat. For a cheesy twist, stir in Parmesan cheese at the end.

Nutrition

Keywords: delicata squash, one pot dinner, Italian sausage, fall recipes, comfort food, easy weeknight dinner, maple sage squash