Cozy Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage Recipe

Autumn’s golden hues inspire this creamy butternut squash gnocchi with sausage that promises pure comfort.

Soft potato dumplings nestle among chunks of tender, caramelized squash and crisp sausage pieces.

Sage and thyme whisper warmth through each delectable bite, creating a symphony of rustic flavors.

Hearty ingredients dance together in a pan, melding robust textures and rich aromas.

Seasonal produce transforms simple ingredients into an extraordinary meal that feels like a culinary embrace.

Weeknight dinners demand deliciousness, and this recipe delivers with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction.

Grab a fork and savor every incredible spoonful.

Variations to Personalize Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage

• Vegetarian Comfort: Replace sausage with roasted mushrooms or plant-based crumbles for a hearty meat-free version that maintains rich, creamy texture.
• Spicy Mediterranean: Add red pepper flakes, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and swap Parmesan for crumbled feta cheese to create a zesty Mediterranean-inspired dish.
• Autumn Harvest: Incorporate diced apples, sage leaves, and toasted pecans to enhance the seasonal butternut squash flavors with additional autumnal warmth.
• Light and Fresh: Use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream, add spinach leaves, and top with crispy sage for a lighter, more vibrant gnocchi experience.

Pairing Ideas for Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage

• Elevate Wine Pairing: Select a medium-bodied Pinot Noir with subtle earthy notes that complement the butternut squash's sweetness and cut through the creamy sauce's richness.
• Balance Herb Garnish: Sprinkle fresh sage or thyme leaves over the dish to enhance the sausage's savory profile and add a bright, aromatic layer to the creamy gnocchi.
• Crisp Side Salad: Prepare a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to provide a tangy, peppery contrast that refreshes the palate between bites of the rich, creamy pasta.
• Craft Beer Match: Choose an amber ale or Belgian-style wheat beer with mild spice undertones that harmonize with the sausage and balance the dish's creamy texture.

Storage Tips for Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, keeping the gnocchi and sauce separate to prevent soggy texture.
• Carefully place in freezer-safe containers, removing as much air as possible, and store for maximum 2 months to maintain quality.
• Warm gnocchi on medium power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to distribute heat evenly and prevent drying out.
• Gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to restore sauce's creamy consistency and prevent sticking.

FAQs About Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage

• What type of sausage works best in this recipe?

Italian sausage is recommended, as its savory herbs and spices complement the sweet butternut squash perfectly. Remove the casing and crumble the sausage for the best texture.

• How can I make butternut squash puree at home?

Roast butternut squash halves at 400°F for 45 minutes, scoop out the flesh, and blend in a food processor until smooth. This method ensures a rich, caramelized flavor for your sauce.

• Can I use store-bought gnocchi or should I make my own?

Store-bought gnocchi works great and saves time. Look for fresh or vacuum-sealed gnocchi in the pasta section for the best quality and texture.

Why Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage Is A Hearty Delight

• Craft a Comfort Meal: Dive into a soul-warming dish that transforms simple ingredients into a luxurious dinner experience perfect for chilly evenings.
• Master Quick Cooking: Prepare a restaurant-quality meal in just a few simple steps, with minimal ingredients and straightforward technique that even beginner cooks can nail.
• Satisfy Hearty Appetites: Packed with protein from sausage and rich butternut squash, this gnocchi delivers a filling meal that keeps hunger at bay and delights taste buds with creamy, savory goodness.
• Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Adaptable to different tastes, this recipe works wonderfully for family dinners, casual gatherings, or when you want a decadent solo meal that feels like a special treat.

Ingredients for Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage

• Gnocchi: Soft, pillowy potato dumplings that serve as the base of this comforting dish.
• Butternut Squash Puree: Smooth, sweet vegetable puree that adds rich flavor and creamy texture.
• Sausage: Savory meat that provides depth and protein to the recipe.

• Heavy Cream: Luxurious ingredient that creates a silky, rich sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese: Salty, aged cheese that enhances the overall flavor profile.

• Garlic, Salt, Pepper: Classic seasonings that boost the dish's taste and aromatic qualities.

How to Make Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage

Step 1: Boil and Prepare Gnocchi

Cook the gnocchi in a large pot of salted boiling water following the package directions. Once they float to the surface, drain them carefully and set aside in a warm spot.

Step 2: Awaken the Garlic

Heat a large skillet over medium flame. Add minced garlic and sauté until it becomes wonderfully aromatic and just starts to turn golden, which takes about 60 seconds.

Step 3: Introduce Sausage and Squash

• Cooked sausage
• Butternut squash puree

Drop the cooked sausage into the skillet and pour in the butternut squash puree. Stir everything together, allowing the flavors to mingle and blend beautifully.

Step 4: Create the Silky Sauce

• Heavy cream
• Grated Parmesan cheese

Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese. Gently stir the mixture, watching it transform into a luxuriously creamy sauce that thickens as it warms.

Step 5: Combine and Season

Tumble the prepared gnocchi into the sauce, gently tossing until each pillow is generously coated. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the dish’s deep flavors.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the gnocchi to warm serving plates. If you’re feeling indulgent, sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top for a final touch of deliciousness. Serve immediately while piping hot.

Pro Tips for Silky Smooth Butternut Squash Gnocchi

• Choose fresh, high-quality butternut squash for the most vibrant flavor and smooth puree.
• Roast butternut squash beforehand to enhance its natural sweetness and deepen the sauce's complexity.
• Use Italian sausage for a richer taste, or swap with turkey sausage for a lighter protein option.
• Opt for store-bought gnocchi to save time, or make homemade for a more authentic touch.
• Add fresh sage or thyme leaves during cooking to introduce an aromatic herb dimension to the dish.

Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage Recipe

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4.8 from 14 reviews

• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Silky butternut squash gnocchi with sausage delivers comfort and elegance on a single plate. Hearty Italian-inspired ingredients blend perfectly, promising a memorable dining experience you’ll savor with each delicious bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Proteins:

• 1 pound (454 grams) Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled

Main Ingredients:

• 1 pound (454 grams) gnocchi
• 2 cups (480 milliliters) butternut squash, pureed

Dairy and Seasonings:

• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) heavy cream
• 1/2 cup (50 grams) grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook gnocchi until they float to the surface, approximately 2-3 minutes, then carefully drain and reserve.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium flame and sauté finely chopped garlic until it releases its aromatic essence, roughly 45-60 seconds.
3. Introduce crumbled sausage and velvety butternut squash puree to the skillet, blending the ingredients thoroughly and creating a rich, harmonious base.
4. Stream heavy cream into the mixture and sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan, stirring consistently until the sauce transforms into a luxurious, thickened consistency.
5. Gently fold the cooked gnocchi into the creamy sauce, ensuring each pillow is lavishly enrobed with the savory blend.
6. Season with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper, adjusting to personal taste preferences.
7. Transfer to warmed serving plates, crowning the dish with an additional dusting of Parmesan cheese for an elegant finish.

Notes

• Boost flavor by roasting butternut squash before pureeing to enhance natural sweetness and add depth to the sauce.
• Swap traditional pork sausage with chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter protein option that still provides rich taste.
• Create a vegetarian version by replacing sausage with crispy mushrooms or plant-based sausage crumbles to maintain texture and umami.
• Reduce sauce calories by substituting half-and-half or whole milk for heavy cream without compromising creamy consistency.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 510 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 650 mg
• Fat: 34 g
• Saturated Fat: 14 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 22 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg