Description
Skillet Sausage, Butternut Squash, and Spinach Hash
Ingredients
1 lb ground sausage (Italian or breakfast sausage)
3 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
2 cups fresh spinach
1 small onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
Directions
Cook the Sausage: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it into crumbles, until browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté the Squash: In the same skillet, add olive oil and the cubed butternut squash. Season with smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the squash is tender and golden.
Add Onion and Garlic: Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
Combine and Add Spinach: Return the sausage to the skillet and add the fresh spinach. Stir until the spinach wilts.
Serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle with red pepper flakes if desired, and serve hot. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~340 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a foolproof hash. First, ensure your butternut squash cubes are uniform (about 1/2-inch) for even cooking. In your preheated skillet, cook the sausage thoroughly, then transfer it to a bowl, leaving the flavorful drippings. Add the olive oil to the drippings before adding the squash. This builds layers of flavor. When sautéing the squash, resist the urge to stir constantly; letting it sit for a few minutes at a time allows for a caramelized, golden crust. Once the squash is fork-tender, add the onion and garlic, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Finally, return the sausage and add the spinach in batches, stirring just until wilted.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile hash shines in many ways. For a classic breakfast, top it with a fried or poached egg. For a hearty dinner, serve it over a bed of creamy polenta or alongside crusty bread to soak up the juices. It also makes an excellent filling for breakfast burritos or a topping for baked potatoes. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra flavor boost.
How-to Summary
Brown sausage and set aside. Sauté cubed butternut squash in the same skillet with oil and seasonings until tender. Add onion and garlic, cook until fragrant. Return sausage to the pan, add fresh spinach, and stir until wilted. Serve hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of squash? Yes, sweet potatoes or acorn squash are excellent substitutes. Adjust cooking time as needed for tenderness.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian? Omit the sausage and use a plant-based sausage alternative, or add a can of drained and rinsed chickpeas for protein.
Can I prepare this hash ahead of time? Absolutely. Cook the complete hash, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat.
My squash isn’t getting tender. What went wrong? The cubes may be too large. Ensure they are no larger than 3/4-inch. You can also cover the skillet for a few minutes with a lid to steam them slightly after initial browning.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly? Yes, though the spinach’s texture may soften upon reheating. Freeze cooled hash in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcrowding the skillet with squash, as this will steam them instead of browning. Do not add the garlic with the onion; garlic cooks faster and can burn. Draining the sausage fat is not necessary—it’s key for flavor. Finally, do not overcook the spinach; add it at the very end just until wilted to retain color and nutrients.
Conclusion
This Skillet Sausage, Butternut Squash, and Spinach Hash is the epitome of a simple, nutritious, and satisfying one-pan meal. Its perfect balance of savory sausage, sweet squash, and fresh greens, combined with minimal cleanup, makes it a reliable recipe for any busy day. Customize it with your favorite spices or proteins, and enjoy a delicious, comforting dish that truly delivers on flavor and ease.