1-Preheat your oven: preheating your oven to 400°F, which sets the stage for roasting the veggies to perfection. This method not only enhances the flavors but also keeps the prep simple for any home cook. With just about 70 minutes total, you’ll have a warm meal ready to enjoy.

2-Prepare the butternut squash: by tossing 3 cups of peeled and cubed squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread it on a parchment-lined baking sheet and roast for 15-20 minutes until tender. At the same time, trim and halve 12 ounces of Brussels sprouts, coat them with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast on another sheet for 20-30 minutes. Roasting both veggies together saves time and brings out their natural sweetness, making this step efficient for busy evenings.

3-Cook the pasta and sausage: While the vegetables roast, cook 8 ounces of bow tie pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain it. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat and sear 12 ounces of sliced smoked sausage for about 5 minutes on one side and 3 minutes on the other. This browning adds a nice crust and deep flavor to the dish. Remove the sausage and set it aside to keep it juicy.

4-Combining the Flavors: Next, in the same skillet, cook 5 cloves of minced garlic on low-medium heat for 1-2 minutes until softened, then add 2 tablespoons of butter to create a savory base. Toss in the cooked pasta and coat it evenly with the garlic butter mixture, seasoning with salt, pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of smoked paprika if desired. Finally, mix in the roasted butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, sausage, and fresh thyme, stirring gently to combine everything. Adjust the seasoning as needed for the perfect taste, and serve hot for the best experience.