There’s nothing quite like the aroma of a warm kitchen, especially when it’s filled with the scents of my Butternut Squash and Apple Hash with Sausage. This dish captures the essence of autumn, combining the creamy sweetness of roasted butternut squash with tart, juicy apples and savory sausage. It’s such a joy to prepare, making it not only beginner-friendly but also a wholesome comfort food that can easily transition from brunch to dinner. Plus, it’s gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy it! I love serving it alongside a fresh salad or as a hearty breakfast with eggs. Are you ready to dive into this delightful autumn-inspired meal with me?

Why is this hash so special?

Hearty, Wholesome Comfort: This Butternut Squash and Apple Hash with Sausage is not just a meal; it's a hug in a bowl, providing comfort and warmth with every bite.

Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even beginner cooks can create this masterpiece without fuss, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or brunch gatherings.

Seasonal Flavor Explosion: The blend of tender squash, crisp apples, and savory sausage offers a celebration of fall flavors that will impress your guests or family.

Healthy Indulgence: At around 450 calories a serving, this dish is a guilt-free treat that won’t betray your healthy eating goals, making it a win-win!

Great for Any Meal: Whether enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this hash is delightful any time of day. For a more comforting start, consider pairing it with eggs, or offer it as a hearty side dish with a fresh salad.

Versatile and Customizable: Feel free to swap out the sausage for chickpeas or tofu for a vegetarian version, showcasing the delicious flexibility of this recipe!

Butternut Squash and Apple Hash Ingredients

For the Hash

Olive Oil – A cooking medium that adds richness; you can substitute with avocado oil for a similar flavor.
Breakfast Sausage – Provides depth and savory flavor; opt for turkey sausage or chorizo for a healthier choice.
Onion (medium, finely chopped) – Adds sweetness and serve as a base flavor when sautéed; no substitutes suggested.
Butternut Squash (peeled, seeded, diced) – The star of the dish, delivering creaminess and natural sweetness.
Apples (peeled, cored, diced) – Contributes tartness and juicy texture; best choices are Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.
Ground Cinnamon – Enhances the sweet and savory balance; feel free to adjust the amount to your taste.
Ground Nutmeg – Adds warmth and complexity; use sparingly since a little goes a long way.
Salt and Pepper – Essential for flavor enhancement; season to your liking.
Fresh Parsley (chopped) – Provides a burst of fresh flavor and color when serving; cilantro can be a delightful alternative.

This Butternut Squash and Apple Hash with Sausage is sure to delight with its rich flavors and heartwarming qualities. Happy cooking!

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

Step 1: Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add your breakfast sausage, breaking it into bite-sized pieces, and cook until browned and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, transfer the sausage to a plate and set aside, leaving the flavorful drippings in the skillet.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the finely chopped onion over medium heat for about 3 minutes, or until it becomes softened and translucent. This will create a fragrant base for your Butternut Squash and Apple Hash with Sausage.

Step 3: Add the Butternut Squash
Stir in the diced butternut squash, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. Cook undisturbed for about 5 minutes, allowing the squash to get a slight golden color. Then, stir again and continue cooking for another 5 minutes until the squash is tender and just starting to caramelize, infusing the dish with warmth.

Step 4: Incorporate the Apples
Next, add the diced apples to the skillet. Combine everything and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until both the butternut squash and apples are tender. At this stage, the sweet and savory scents will start to fill your kitchen, making this hash even more inviting.

Step 5: Season the Hash
To elevate the flavors of your Butternut Squash and Apple Hash with Sausage, sprinkle in the ground cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir well to ensure an even coating of spices, which will enhance the sweetness of the apples and squash while balancing with the sausage's richness.

Step 6: Combine the Ingredients
Finally, return the cooked sausage back to the skillet. Gently mix everything together, allowing it to heat through for about 2-3 minutes. You want the sausage to warm up and blend with the earthy squash and tart apples, creating a harmonious ensemble of flavors.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the prepared Butternut Squash and Apple Hash with Sausage with freshly chopped parsley. This final touch adds a burst of color and freshness. Serve warm, and enjoy the comfort of this nourishing dish that transitions beautifully from brunch to dinner!

What to Serve with Butternut Squash and Apple Hash with Sausage

Imagine a cozy table filled with vibrant colors and comforting aromas, creating the perfect ambiance for a delightful meal.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery texture and rich flavor provide a classic contrast that balances the sweet and savory notes of the hash.
Garlic Bread: This crunchy, garlicky bread offers a delightful textural difference, perfect for scooping up every last bit of the delicious hash.
Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing mix of greens with a light vinaigrette enhances the meal, bringing brightness and crunch to complement the richness of the dish.
Fried Eggs: A sunny-side-up egg on top adds a luscious creaminess, creating an indulgent brunch experience that resonates with everyone at the table.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their crisp edges and earthy flavor pair wonderfully with the sweetness of the hash, making for a wholesome, hearty meal.
Apple Cider Mimosa: This festive drink brings a touch of sparkle and fall flavors, making your dining experience even more special and warm.
Sweet Potato Wedges: Their sweetness adds another layer to your meal, contrasting beautifully with the savory sausage and apples in the hash.
Pumpkin Muffins: For dessert, these warm muffins cap off your autumn-inspired meal with a lovely blend of spices and sweetness, making everyone smile.

How to Store and Freeze Butternut Squash and Apple Hash with Sausage

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days to keep the flavors fresh and vibrant.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Butternut Squash and Apple Hash in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth for moisture, ensuring it’s heated through completely.

Meal Prep: This dish is perfect for meal prep! Make a large batch ahead of time and divide into portions for easy grab-and-go meals throughout the week.

Expert Tips for Butternut Squash and Apple Hash

Cook Sausage First: Ensure the sausage is fully cooked and crispy before adding vegetables. This builds a rich flavor foundation for your hash.
Choosing Apples: Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp to prevent them from turning mushy. They add a delightful contrast to the squash.
Season to Taste: Taste as you go! Adjust the cinnamon and nutmeg according to your preference, enhancing the balance of flavors in your Butternut Squash and Apple Hash with Sausage.
Perfect Texture: Don’t rush the cooking process. Allow the butternut squash to caramelize slightly for a deeper flavor and satisfying texture.
Make-Ahead Option: This dish can be prepped ahead! Store everything separately in the fridge, and cook just before serving to keep it fresh and warm.

Butternut Squash and Apple Hash Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing your Butternut Squash and Apple Hash with a few delightful twists!

Vegetarian Swap: Replace sausage with chickpeas or tofu for a hearty vegetarian option that retains all the flavor.
Spice It Up: Consider adding smoked paprika or cumin for an unexpected flavor boost that adds depth and warmth to the dish. The hint of smokiness beautifully complements the sweetness of the hash.
Change the Fruit: Trade apples for pears for a different fruit profile that adds even more sweetness and a touch of elegance to your hash.
Heat Level Adjustments: Want a kick? Toss in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy twist that wakes up your senses.
Gluten-Free Options: Ensure your sausage is gluten-free. This ensures that all guests at your table can enjoy this comforting dish without worry.
Herb Variations: Instead of parsley, try fresh sage or rosemary. Their robust flavors add a unique aromatic touch and deepen the overall experience.
Add Nuts: For some crunch, sprinkle in toasted walnuts or pecans. They provide a delightful textural contrast against the creamy squash and juicy apples.
Breakfast Version: Mix in scrambled eggs or serve alongside a perfectly fried egg to transform this hash into a filling breakfast dish that’s sure to energize your day.

Each variation brings a new flavor profile and experience, lending versatility to this beloved recipe. If you’re curious for more cozy fall dishes, you might also enjoy my Butternut Squash Soup or the delightful Amish Style Apple and Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal. Happy cooking and experimenting!

Make Ahead Options

These Butternut Squash and Apple Hash with Sausage are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop your butternut squash and apples up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. Additionally, you can cook the sausage and sauté the onion a day prior; just refrigerate them in a separate container. To assemble and finish the recipe, simply heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet, add the prepped vegetables, and follow it up with the cooked sausage. This way, you’ll have a comforting meal prepped in no time, ensuring that dinner is ready to enjoy with minimal effort after a busy day!

Butternut Squash and Apple Hash with Sausage Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe butternut squash?
Absolutely! Look for a squash that is firm and uniform in color, avoiding any with dark spots or soft patches. The skin should have a matte finish rather than a shiny one, which indicates it was picked too early. Ideally, the squash should feel heavy for its size—a sign that it’s full of moisture and flavor.

How should I store leftover hash?
Very! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This keeps the flavors fresh, though I recommend consuming it sooner rather than later for the best taste. When you reheat, just add a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture and revive that comforting texture.

Can I freeze Butternut Squash and Apple Hash?
Definitely! To freeze, allow the hash to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container, ensuring it's airtight. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop.

What should I do if my apples become mushy while cooking?
Don't worry! If you find your apples starting to break down too much, try adding them later in the cooking process next time—just 5 minutes before you finish cooking the squash. This will keep them crispy and juicy, providing that lovely contrast to the tender squash and sausage.

Is this recipe suitable for those with gluten allergies?
Absolutely! Just make sure to use certified gluten-free sausage, as some sausages may contain fillers that have gluten. The rest of the ingredients—squash, apples, and spices—are naturally gluten-free. Enjoy worry-free comfort food!

What can I substitute for breakfast sausage?
Very good question! You can swap the sausage for healthier options like turkey sausage or even chickpeas for a vegetarian take. If you’re feeling adventurous, try chorizo for an extra kick of spice! This versatility allows everyone to customize the dish to their liking.