Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage Recipe

 

Ever craved a bowl of pure comfort that’s also surprisingly easy to make? This Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage is your answer. Silky smooth gnocchi, a rich and flavorful butternut squash sauce, and savory chicken sausage come together in perfect harmony. Perfect for a cozy night in or a quick yet impressive dinner party. This recipe, inspired by the flavors of autumn, is sure to become a family favorite! Let’s dive into the magic of this heartwarming dish!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi

• Ready in Under an Hour: Quick enough for a weeknight meal, special enough for guests.
• Incredible Flavor: Sweet butternut squash, savory sausage, and aromatic sage create a symphony of tastes.
• Satisfying and Comforting: The creamy texture and hearty ingredients make this a truly soul-warming dish.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, accessible ingredients without breaking the bank.
• Easy to Customize: Adapt the recipe to your liking with various substitutions and additions.
• Less Cleanup: Minimal dishes, maximum flavor – a win-win!
• Aromatic Experience: The scent of roasting squash and sautéing garlic will fill your kitchen with warmth.

It’s an irresistible, effortless recipe that’s simple enough even for your first try!

Ingredients Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to create this masterpiece. Don’t worry, we’ll provide tips along the way!

For the Gnocchi:

• 1 (15-ounce) container ricotta cheese (425g)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (50g)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (0.5g)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (3g)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (0.5g)
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten (50g)
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting (180g)

For the Sauce:

• 1 butternut squash (about 2 pounds), peeled, seeded, and cubed (900g)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (30ml)
• 1 teaspoon dried sage (2g)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (3g)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (0.5g)
• 1 pound Italian chicken sausage, casings removed (450g)
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped (150g)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (6g)
• 1 cup chicken broth (240ml)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (120ml)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (15g)

Selection Tips: Choose a butternut squash that feels heavy for its size, indicating it’s dense and flavorful. You can use pre-cubed squash to save time. Spice Enhancement: Lightly toast the dried sage in a dry pan for a minute to unlock its aroma. YOU MIGHT LOVE: Pumpkin Ricotta Caramelized Onion Tart – A zesty twist for spice lovers.

Essential Equipment List

Having the right tools makes all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need.

• Large bowl: For mixing the gnocchi dough.
• Baking sheet: For roasting the butternut squash.
• Large skillet: To cook the sausage and create the sauce.
• Immersion blender or regular blender: For a smooth sauce.
• Large pot: For cooking the gnocchi.

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A sturdy skillet ensures even browning of the sausage. A food processor speeds up squash prep, and if you don’t have a rolling pin, a wine bottle works great!

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 65 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Difficulty: Medium

Scale up for a family gathering; halve it for a cozy night alone.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps for delicious results!

Make the Gnocchi

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, nutmeg, salt, pepper, and egg. Mix until well combined.
2. Add Flour: Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
3. Knead Gently: Lightly flour a clean surface. Turn the dough out onto the floured surface and gently knead a few times to form a smooth ball.
4. Shape the Gnocchi: Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, about 1/2-inch thick.
5. Cut and Ridge: Cut the ropes into 1-inch pieces to form the gnocchi. You can leave them as is or gently roll them over a fork to create ridges.

Cook the Butternut Squash

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss and Season: Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, sage, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast: Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the squash is tender and slightly caramelized. Remove from oven and set aside.

Cook the Sausage

1. Brown Sausage: While the squash is roasting, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian chicken sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
2. Remove and Reserve: Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside, leaving any rendered fat in the pan.

Sauté the Aromatics

1. Soften Onion: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Make the Sauce

1. Combine Squash: Add the roasted butternut squash to the skillet with the onion and garlic.
2. Add Broth and Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
3. Blend Until Smooth: Use an immersion blender to blend the sauce until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the mixture to a regular blender, blend until smooth, and then return it to the skillet.
4. Add Cream and Season: Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.

Cook the Gnocchi

1. Boil Gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes.
2. Combine and Serve: Gently remove the gnocchi with a slotted spoon and add them to the skillet with the butternut squash sauce. Add the cooked sausage to the skillet and toss everything together to combine.
3. Garnish and Enjoy: Divide the gnocchi and sauce among plates. Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Rest the dough for 10-15 minutes before rolling for fluffier gnocchi. Too thick? Thin the sauce with more broth.

Tips for Success

• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Overmixing leads to tough gnocchi. Mix until just combined.
• Roast Squash Until Tender: Ensure the butternut squash is fully cooked and slightly caramelized for the best flavor.
• Season Generously: Don’t be shy with salt and pepper at each stage to build layers of flavor.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley adds a burst of freshness to balance the richness of the sauce.
• Taste and Adjust: Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning as needed before adding the gnocchi.

Save time by buying pre-cut butternut squash. A microplane quickly zests Parmesan for garnish. Deglaze the skillet with a splash of broth after browning the sausage for extra depth.

CHECK OUT: Maple Pecan Roasted Sweet Potatoes – A zesty twist for spice lovers.

Variations & Substitutions

• Vegetarian: Omit the sausage or substitute with plant-based sausage.
• Dairy-Free: Use cashew cream or other plant-based cream alternatives.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour or a blend for the gnocchi.

Honey can replace sugar in a pinch – just use slightly less. Add a pinch of cinnamon for an extra layer of warmth. Go creamy with a cashew-based sauce if you are dairy free!

Serving Suggestions & Pairings with Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Complete your meal with these delicious pairings!

• Side Salad: A crisp arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted Brussels sprouts or carrots complement the sweetness of the squash.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce.

Pair with a sparkling apple cider for a fall-inspired drink. A fall feast stunner, perfect for Thanksgiving or any special occasion. Stack the gnocchi high on the plate and drizzle the sauce artfully for a restaurant-worthy presentation.

Health Benefits

This dish isn’t just delicious; it’s also packed with nutrients!

• Butternut Squash: Rich in vitamins A and C, plus fiber.
• Chicken Sausage: A good source of protein.
• Parmesan Cheese: Provides calcium and protein.

The fiber aids digestion, and the protein fuels your body. Spinach brings iron and folate if added as a side. This dish is a vitamin powerhouse!

Storage & Reheating

Here’s how to store and reheat your leftovers.

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to maintain creaminess.
• Freezing: Portion and wrap tightly; lasts for 2 months.

Cool fully before sealing to prevent spoilage. Reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes helps retain the gnocchi’s texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Avoid Soggy Gnocchi?

Ensure the gnocchi are cooked until they float to the surface, then remove them immediately. Do not overcrowd the pot, as this will lower the water temperature and lead to soggy gnocchi.

Can I Make This Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can make the sauce and gnocchi separately ahead of time. Store them separately and combine when ready to serve.

Can I Use Frozen Butternut Squash?

Absolutely! Frozen butternut squash is a convenient option. Thaw it before roasting.

What If My Sauce Is Too Thick?

Thin it out with additional chicken broth or a bit of water until you reach your desired consistency.

Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?

Certainly! Feel free to experiment with different flavors, such as sweet Italian sausage or spicy chorizo.

Nutritional Information

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Total Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 75mg
• Sodium: 600mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 40g
• Dietary Fiber: 5g
• Sugars: 10g
• Protein: 20g

Exact stats may vary; use a nutrition calculator for precision.

More Delicious Dishes to Explore

Craving more comforting pasta dishes? Try these gems!

• Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta – A quick and flavorful weeknight dinner.
• Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup – A creamy and comforting soup perfect for chilly days.
• Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage – A hearty and delicious soup featuring tortellini, sausage, and autumn vegetables.

Conclusion

This Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage is a fast, flavorful, and comforting dish that’s sure to please. Whip it up tonight—tag us with your masterpiece! Share this recipe with your friends and family who would love it! Join our vibrant community on Facebook and Pinterest for daily recipe inspiration, cooking tips, and more tasty ideas! Happy cooking!

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