Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Introduction

Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings together the comforting tastes of fall with a rich and velvety sauce. This recipe highlights the creaminess of butternut squash puree paired with pillowy gnocchi and the savory flavors of sausage. Perfectly suited for a cozy dinner or a special occasion, this meal is both easy to make and endlessly satisfying. It’s an excellent way to elevate your weeknight dinner routine while still keeping the prep time manageable.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– 16 ounces of gnocchi
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 12 ounces of Italian sausage (casings removed)
– 1 cup of butternut squash puree
– 1 cup of heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon of paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon of red chili flakes
– 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
– 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh sage leaves, for garnish (optional)

Prep Time

This recipe requires minimal preparation. With ready-made gnocchi and pre-pureed butternut squash, you’ll save time in the kitchen. The prep process involves simple tasks like removing the sausage casing, measuring ingredients, and lightly chopping any fresh sage if you’re using it as garnish. It should take about 15 minutes to get everything ready for cooking.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

This creamy butternut squash gnocchi with sausage is a versatile and simple dish to prepare, yet the flavors are elevated enough to impress any guest. With everything combined in a luscious cream sauce, the result is a perfectly balanced meal that marries rich, savory, and slightly sweet notes. Make it for a family dinner or as part of your entertaining repertoire, and it’s bound to become a favorite in no time!

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Butternut Squash

– Peel the butternut squash and remove the seeds.
– Cut the squash into small cubes (approximately 1-inch in size).

Step 2: Cook the Squash

– Heat a large, high-sided skillet or sauté pan over medium heat.
– Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
– Add the cubed butternut squash to the skillet and season with salt and pepper.
– Cook the squash on medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 10–15 minutes or until it becomes soft and can be easily pierced with a fork.

Step 3: Prepare the Sausage

– Remove the casings from 8 ounces of sausage (if applicable).
– In the same skillet used for the squash, push the cooked squash to the side (or transfer it to a separate plate temporarily).
– Add the sausage to the skillet, breaking it apart into crumbles as it cooks.
– Cook until the sausage is browned and cooked through.

Step 4: Cook the Gnocchi

– Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
– Add the gnocchi (16 ounces) to the boiling water.
– Cook according to package instructions (typically about 2–3 minutes or until the gnocchi floats to the top).
– Drain the cooked gnocchi and set aside.

Step 5: Combine the Ingredients

– Once the sausage is fully cooked, lower the heat to medium.
– Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet with the sausage.
– Gently stir in the cooked butternut squash.

Step 6: Add the Heavy Cream

– Pour ½ cup of heavy cream into the skillet.
– Stir well, ensuring all the ingredients are coated evenly.
– Simmer on low heat for a couple of minutes, allowing the cream to slightly thicken and fully coat the gnocchi and other ingredients.

Step 7: Add Parmesan and Greens

– Add grated Parmesan cheese (about ½ cup) to the skillet. Stir it in until melted and incorporated.
– If desired, add fresh spinach or arugula (about 2 cups) to the skillet. Stir until the greens begin to wilt.

Step 8: Final Seasoning

– Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
– Optional: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

Step 9: Serve

– Remove the skillet from heat.
– Serve the creamy butternut squash gnocchi with sausage warm.

Notes

Note 1: Butternut Squash Alternatives

If desired, substitute fresh butternut squash with pre-cut squash or frozen butternut squash for convenience. Adjust cooking time accordingly for the type of squash used.

Note 2: Sausage Selection

Use your favorite type of sausage. Italian sausage (mild or spicy) works great in this recipe for added flavor.

Note 3: Gnocchi Variety

Choose store-bought gnocchi for simplicity or make homemade gnocchi if preferred.

Note 4: Dairy-Free Alternatives

To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative. Replace Parmesan cheese with a dairy-free cheese substitute or nutritional yeast for flavor.

Note 5: Additions and Variations

Enhance the dish by adding other seasonal vegetables, such as caramelized onions or mushrooms. Vegetarians can omit the sausage or replace it with plant-based sausage alternatives.

Note 6: Storage

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream to restore the sauce’s consistency.

Note 7: Serving Size

This recipe serves approximately 4 people as a main dish or more as a side dish. Adjust ingredient quantities if serving a larger crowd.

Cook Techniques

Cooking Butternut Squash

Roast the butternut squash cubes in the oven until soft and tender. This enhances their natural sweetness and creates a creamy texture when incorporated into the recipe.

Browning the Sausage

Cook the sausage in a skillet until it’s browned and fully cooked, adding flavor and depth to the dish.

Creating the Sauce

Prepare a creamy sauce by combining cooked butternut squash, butter, garlic, cream, and Parmesan cheese. Blend it to achieve a smooth and velvety consistency.

Cooking Gnocchi

Boil the gnocchi until they float to the surface, ensuring they are cooked perfectly. Then, combine the cooked gnocchi with the sauce and sausage for a harmonious dish.

FAQ

Can I use store-bought gnocchi for this recipe?

Yes, store-bought gnocchi works well and saves time. However, if you prefer homemade gnocchi, it will enhance the dish even more.

Can I substitute the butternut squash with another vegetable?

You can try substituting butternut squash with sweet potatoes or pumpkin for a similar creamy texture and flavor.

What kind of sausage works best for this recipe?

Italian sausage, either sweet or spicy, pairs excellently with the flavors in this dish. You can also use chicken sausage as an alternative.

Can I make the sauce in advance?

Yes, the sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently on the stovetop and add a splash of cream or broth if it thickens too much.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the sausage and consider adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor and texture.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little cream or broth to bring the sauce back to life.

Conclusion

The Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage is a perfect comforting dish that highlights the combination of creamy, sweet, and savory flavors. With a balance between the rich sauce, flavorful sausage, and pillow-soft gnocchi, it’s an ideal meal for fall or winter. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering.

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