One-Pot Sausage Pumpkin Fennel Penne (Print Version)
Cozy penne with sausage, pumpkin, and fennel in a single pot. Simple, hearty, and full of savory comfort.
# What You’ll Need:
→ Proteins
01 -
10 oz Italian sausage, mild or spicy, casings removed
→ Vegetables
02 -
2 cups pumpkin or butternut squash, peeled and diced
03 -
1 medium fennel bulb, trimmed and thinly sliced
04 -
1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
05 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
06 -
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, plus extra for garnish
→ Pasta
07 -
10 oz penne pasta
→ Liquids
08 -
4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
09 -
1/2 cup dry white wine, optional
10 -
2 tablespoons olive oil
→ Dairy
11 -
3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra to serve
→ Spices & Seasoning
12 -
1 teaspoon fennel seeds
13 -
1/2 teaspoon dried chili flakes, optional
14 -
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
# How to Make It:
01 -
Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add sausage and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
02 -
Stir in onion and fennel. Sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
03 -
Add garlic, fennel seeds, and chili flakes if using. Cook for 1 minute.
04 -
Add diced pumpkin or butternut squash and stir to combine.
05 -
Pour in dry white wine if using, scraping up browned bits from the pan. Simmer for 2 minutes.
06 -
Add penne, chicken or vegetable broth, salt, and black pepper. Stir and bring to a boil.
07 -
Reduce heat to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, for 12 to 15 minutes until pasta and pumpkin are tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
08 -
Stir in grated Parmesan and chopped parsley. Adjust seasoning as needed.
09 -
Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley.
# Additional Tips:
01 -
Substitute pumpkin with butternut squash if preferred. For a vegetarian adaptation, use plant-based sausage and vegetable broth. A handful of baby spinach may be added during the final 2 minutes of cooking for added greens. For wine pairing, opt for a crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.