Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage Recipe

A Cozy Delight: Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage

There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of creamy butternut squash gnocchi paired with savory sausage. This dish has become a staple in my kitchen, especially during fall evenings when I crave something hearty yet elegant. The sweetness of the butternut squash combined with rich Italian sausage creates a symphony of flavors that makes any dinner feel special. If you’re in need of a cozy dinner option that impresses without overwhelming your schedule, you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe.

Why You’ll Love Making It

What sets this recipe apart is its perfect blend of comforting flavors and straightforward preparation. It’s not just about great taste — it’s also quick to whip up on a weeknight, making it an ideal choice for busy families looking for something healthy yet indulgent. In about an hour, you can have a delicious, homemade meal on the table that rivals any restaurant dish.

"This gnocchi recipe took me by surprise – it was so easy and yet tasted like a gourmet meal! My family couldn’t get enough. I’ll definitely be making it again!" – A thrilled home cook

Preparing Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage Recipe

This delightful dish combines handmade gnocchi, a rich creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked Italian sausage. The process involves a few steps but is surprisingly simple for such a gourmet outcome. You’ll start by making the gnocchi, then whip up the creamy sauce while the sausage cooks, and finish by combining everything into a luscious feast.

What You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

• For the Gnocchi:

  • 1 lb butternut squash, peeled and cubed
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 egg
  • Salt and pepper to taste

• For the Creamy Sauce:

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste

• For the Sausage:

  • 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Feel free to swap out the Italian sausage for a turkey or plant-based version to make it lighter or vegetarian.

Step-by-Step Directions

Cooking Steps

1. Make the Gnocchi: Boil the butternut squash in salted water until soft. Drain and let it cool, then mash until smooth. In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed squash with the egg, flour, salt, and pepper, stirring until a dough forms.

2. Form the Gnocchi: Roll the dough into long ropes (about 1/2 inch thick) and cut into bite-sized pieces. Create ridges on the pieces using a fork for that classic gnocchi texture.

3. Cook the Gnocchi: In a large pot of salted boiling water, add the gnocchi. They’re ready when they float to the surface. Drain and set aside.

4. Prepare the Creamy Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and add minced garlic, cooking until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer. Add grated Parmesan cheese and mix until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper.

5. Cook the Sausage: In another pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion until translucent, then add the sausage. Break it up while it cooks, adding minced garlic and red pepper flakes until browned.

6. Combine: Toss the cooked gnocchi in the creamy sauce, then incorporate the sausage mixture for an even blend of flavors.

7. Serve: Plate your dish and garnish as desired, perhaps with extra Parmesan, fresh herbs, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.

Best Way to Serve

This creamy butternut squash gnocchi shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or some roasted vegetables to balance the richness. A glass of crisp white wine or sparkling water will complement the meal beautifully.

Storage Tips

Keeping Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage Recipe Fresh Longer

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If you plan to store it, consider keeping the sauce separate from the gnocchi and sausage to prevent them from getting soggy. You can reheat them in a pan over low heat with a splash of cream or broth to bring back the creaminess. As for freezing, gnocchi can be frozen before cooking. Simply place uncooked gnocchi on a baking sheet, freeze, then transfer to a zip-top bag.

Tips and Tricks

Expert Advice

• Don’t Overwork the Dough: When mixing your gnocchi dough, be careful not to over-knead. A light hand ensures tender gnocchi.
• Squash Prep: Microwaving the cubed butternut squash for a few minutes helps soften it, speeding up the cooking process.
• Test Cooking: If you want to ensure your gnocchi holds together, cook a few in boiling water before cooking the whole batch.

Creative Twists

Recipe Variations

Feel free to get creative! Consider adding spinach or kale to the creamy sauce for a pop of color and extra nutrition. You might also experiment with different types of cheese, like goat cheese or feta, for a tangy twist. For those who like spice, toss in some cooked red pepper or jalapeños.

Your Questions Answered

FAQ

• Can I make the gnocchi ahead of time?
  Yes! You can prepare the gnocchi and freeze them uncooked for later use. Just cook them directly from the freezer.

• What can I substitute for heavy cream?
  If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using half-and-half or a combination of milk and cream, but keep in mind this will change the richness of the sauce.

• How do I know if my gnocchi are cooked properly?
  Gnocchi are done when they float to the surface of the boiling water. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

Indulge in this creamy butternut squash gnocchi with sausage — it’s a recipe that’s sure to bring warmth and joy to your dinner table!

Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage

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• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian (if plant-based sausage is used)

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Description

A hearty and elegant dish combining creamy butternut squash gnocchi with savory Italian sausage, perfect for cozy evenings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 egg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

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Instructions

1. Boil the butternut squash in salted water until soft. Drain and let it cool, then mash until smooth.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed squash with the egg, flour, salt, and pepper, stirring until a dough forms.
3. Roll the dough into long ropes (about 1/2 inch thick) and cut into bite-sized pieces. Create ridges on the pieces using a fork.
4. In a large pot of salted boiling water, add the gnocchi. They’re ready when they float to the surface. Drain and set aside.
5. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and add minced garlic, cooking until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer. Add grated Parmesan cheese and mix until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper.
6. In another pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion until translucent, then add the sausage. Break it up while it cooks, adding minced garlic and red pepper flakes until browned.
7. Toss the cooked gnocchi in the creamy sauce, then incorporate the sausage mixture.
8. Plate your dish and garnish as desired.

Notes

Feel free to substitute Italian sausage for turkey or plant-based options. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: gnocchi, butternut squash, Italian sausage, creamy sauce, comfort food