Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage Recipe

Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Savory Sausage: A Cozy & Decadent Delight 🍂🍝🔥

1. Introduction

Welcome to the ultimate comfort food experience — creamy butternut squash gnocchi with savory sausage. This dish combines the sweet, nutty flavors of roasted butternut squash with the richness of creamy sauce and hearty sausage, creating a dish that is both satisfying and elegant. Perfect for chilly evenings or weekend dinners, this gnocchi recipe elevates classic comfort food to a whole new level. Dive into this flavorful journey and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal made right at home!

2. Ingredients Needed for Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage

• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 large egg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh sage or basil for garnish (optional)
• Additional salt and pepper as needed

3. How to Make Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Savory Sausage — Step-by-Step

Prepare the Butternut Squash

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for about 25-30 minutes until tender and caramelized. Once cooled slightly, mash or blend until smooth.

Make the Gnocchi Dough

In a large bowl, combine the mashed butternut squash, all-purpose flour, and egg. Mix until a soft dough forms. Knead gently, adding more flour if the dough is too sticky. Divide into smaller portions and roll into long ropes about 1/2 inch thick. Cut into bite-sized pieces and shape each piece with a fork to create the classic gnocchi ridges.

Cook the Gnocchi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully add the gnocchi and cook until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a plate and set aside.

Cook the Sausage

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Remove and set aside.

Prepare the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let simmer gently until slightly thickened. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked sausage back into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Gently toss in the cooked gnocchi, ensuring each piece is coated with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

4. Storage Tips for Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to revive the creamy texture.

5. Serving Suggestions

Serve this butternut squash gnocchi with savory sausage hot, garnished with fresh herbs like sage or basil. Pair with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete comforting meal. For dessert, consider a warm apple crisp from this delightful recipe to finish the dinner on a sweet note.

6. Frequently Asked Questions — FAQs About Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage

Can I substitute the sausage with chicken or turkey?

Absolutely! You can replace the Italian sausage with cooked ground chicken or turkey for a lighter, healthier variation. Adjust the seasoning accordingly.

What other vegetables work well in this recipe?

Consider adding sautéed spinach, kale, or roasted Brussels sprouts for extra nutrition and flavor variations.

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

The entire process, from roasting the butternut squash to serving, takes approximately 1 hour. Prep time is about 20 minutes, and cooking time is around 40 minutes.

Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?

While traditional gnocchi contains gluten, you can use gluten-free all-purpose flour to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive eaters.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

• CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set – This comprehensive cookware set makes sautéing, boiling, and whisking effortless, enhancing your cooking experience.
• Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master – Efficiently chop and prepare the butternut squash with minimal mess and maximum comfort.
• Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker – If you prefer an easier method, use a slow cooker to soften the squash ahead of time.

8. Related Recipes to Explore

• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken
• Delicious Pumpkin French Toast
• Lemon Feta Shrimp Orzo

9. Conclusion

This creamy yet hearty butternut squash gnocchi with savory sausage creates an inviting, comforting dish perfect for fall and winter nights. Combining sweet roasted squash with flavorful sausage and a luscious cream sauce, it offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to impress. Grab your ingredients, gather your kitchen tools, and enjoy making this delectable comfort food that feels both luxurious and easy to prepare!

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