Looking for a delicious and nutritious meal that’s as easy to prepare as it is satisfying? Look no further than this mouthwatering Sausage Kale and Acorn Squash Sheet Pan recipe! Bursting with flavors and colors, this dish combines savory Italian sausage with the earthy sweetness of acorn squash and the vibrant crunch of kale—all roasted to perfection on a single sheet pan. In just 45 minutes, you can whip up a hearty dinner that will impress your family and friends while keeping your kitchen mess to a minimum. Ready to elevate your weeknight dinners? Let’s dive into this simple yet scrumptious recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 1 acorn squash, halved and sliced
- 4 cups kale, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the acorn squash by washing thoroughly, then carefully cutting it in half. Remove the seeds and stringy pulp using a spoon. Slice the squash into half-moon shapes approximately 1/2-inch thick, ensuring even cuts for consistent cooking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced acorn squash, chopped kale, and Italian sausage. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Toss the ingredients until evenly coated with seasoning and oil.
- Spread the mixture evenly across the prepared baking sheet, ensuring ingredients are in a single layer without overcrowding. This allows for proper roasting and caramelization.
- Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes. Halfway through cooking, use tongs to gently stir and flip the ingredients to ensure even browning.
- Check that the sausage is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F) and the squash is tender and slightly caramelized. The kale should be crispy on the edges.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and helps prevent burning.
- Serve hot, optionally garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for added flavor and presentation.
Tips
- Choose the Right Sausage: For the best flavor, opt for high-quality Italian sausage. You can use spicy or mild depending on your preference. Feel free to remove the casing for crumbled sausage or keep it whole for a more rustic presentation.
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can slice the acorn squash and chop the kale a day in advance. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.
- Don’t Crowd the Pan: Make sure to spread the ingredients out in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting, which prevents that delicious caramelization.
- Experiment with Seasonings: While garlic powder, salt, and pepper are classic, don’t hesitate to add your favorite herbs and spices. A pinch of red pepper flakes or some Italian seasoning can add an extra kick!
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the sausage is cooked through (160°F). The squash should be tender with a slight caramelization, and the kale should be crispy but not burnt.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor profile of the dish.
- Serve with a Side: Pair this dish with a light salad or some crusty bread to round out the meal and soak up all those delicious juices!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 65mg
