Irresistible Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage

There’s something magical about the first spoonful of creamy butternut squash gnocchi with sausage. Imagine a velvety sauce that wraps around tender, pillowy gnocchi, each bite bursting with comforting flavors. The aroma wafts through the kitchen like a warm hug on a chilly evening, and you can almost hear your taste buds cheering in delight as you prepare this dish.

This recipe brings back memories of cozy family gatherings where laughter mingled with the rich scents of autumn spices. It’s perfect for those nights when you want to impress guests or simply treat yourself to something extraordinary. Get ready to embark on a flavor journey that promises to elevate your dinner experience!

I once made this creamy butternut squash gnocchi with sausage for a dinner party, and my friends practically licked their plates clean!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Butternut Squash: Choose a firm and heavy squash; it should feel dense and look smooth.
• Gnocchi: Fresh or store-bought works well; I prefer fresh for its delightful texture.
• Sausage: Use Italian sausage for that savory kick; spicy or mild depends on your preference.
• Heavy Cream: Full-fat cream adds richness; don’t skip this unless you’re going dairy-free.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese elevates the flavor; avoid pre-grated for the best results.
• Shallots: These add a subtle sweetness; opt for fresh ones if available.
• Garlic: A must-have for flavor; minced garlic releases its aromatic oils beautifully in cooking.
• Sage Leaves: Fresh sage pairs perfectly with butternut squash; it adds an earthy aroma.
• Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for sautéing; it enhances the overall flavor.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors together; adjust according to taste.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage Recipe

Prepare the Butternut Squash: Start by peeling and cubing the butternut squash into small chunks for even cooking. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting.

Roast Until Tender: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and roast the seasoned squash on a baking sheet until fork-tender and caramelized, about 25-30 minutes.

Sauté Sausage and Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced sausage and cook until browned, then toss in minced garlic and shallots until fragrant.

Create the Sauce Base: Pour in heavy cream to combine with the sausage mixture once the garlic turns golden. Stir well while allowing it to simmer gently.

Add Roasted Squash and Gnocchi: Incorporate roasted butternut squash into the sauce along with cooked gnocchi. Gently fold everything together until well-coated.

Finish with Cheese and Sage: Remove from heat, stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and sprinkle with crispy sage leaves for an aromatic finish before serving hot.

Now you’re ready to enjoy this delightful dish that brings warmth to your table!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the sausage until golden brown, then add the gnocchi and butternut squash. Stir in cream and seasonings for a delightful meal.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap sausage for mushrooms or add spinach for extra nutrients. A sprinkle of parmesan can elevate the dish even further!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove to retain creaminess.

The first time I made this dish, my friends devoured it within minutes, asking for seconds and thirds. Their smiles were worth every bit of effort!

FAQ

Can I use frozen gnocchi in this creamy butternut squash gnocchi with sausage recipe?

Absolutely! Just follow the package instructions, and you’ll be good to go.

What can I substitute for cream in this recipe?

You can use coconut milk or cashew cream for a lighter option while maintaining richness.

How do I know when the butternut squash is cooked properly?

It should be fork-tender but still hold its shape; taste testing works wonders!

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Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage

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Indulge in the comforting flavors of creamy butternut squash gnocchi with sausage, a dish that combines tender gnocchi enveloped in a velvety sauce. Perfect for cozy evenings or special gatherings, each bite is a warm embrace of autumn spices and savory goodness. This recipe is not only simple to make but also versatile enough to cater to various dietary preferences, making it a delightful addition to any dinner table.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing/Roasting
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 cups cubed)
• 1 lb gnocchi (fresh or store-bought)
• 8 oz Italian sausage (spicy or mild)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 shallots (sliced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 6 fresh sage leaves
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel and cube the butternut squash, then toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes until fork-tender.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté sliced sausage in olive oil until browned. Add minced garlic and shallots; cook until fragrant.
3. Pour the heavy cream into the skillet with the sausage mixture and let simmer gently.
4. Fold in the roasted butternut squash and cooked gnocchi, ensuring everything is well-coated in the sauce.
5. Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese and crispy sage leaves before serving hot.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (about 250g)
• Calories: 505
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 670mg
• Fat: 26g
• Saturated Fat: 13g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 56g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 16g
• Cholesterol: 65mg

Keywords: Substitute sausage with mushrooms for a vegetarian option or add spinach for extra nutrition. Ensure fresh or homemade gnocchi for optimal texture.