Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage Recipe

Why Make This Recipe

There are countless reasons to whip up a batch of Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage. First and foremost, the combination of the sweet and nutty flavors of butternut squash paired with the hearty taste of Italian sausage is simply irresistible. This recipe is not just about taste; it’s also about texture. The soft, pillowy gnocchi absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully, creating a dish that is rich and satisfying without feeling overly heavy.

Additionally, this recipe stands out because it’s perfect for various occasions. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, hosting friends, or preparing a special meal for a loved one, this dish is sure to impress. The bright orange color from the squash adds a lovely visual appeal to your plate, making it look as good as it tastes.

Moreover, making gnocchi from scratch can feel like a culinary achievement. While it might seem daunting at first, the process is straightforward and rewarding. Plus, cooking at home gives you control over the ingredients. You can adjust the flavors, choose high-quality ingredients, and make it as decadent or light as you want.

Finally, this creamy gnocchi dish is also a great way to introduce butternut squash into your diet if you’re not a regular fan. The cream and sausage help balance out the sweetness of the squash, making it more palatable for those who might not be accustomed to it.

How to Make Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage

Making Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage is a delightful journey, starting with a few simple ingredients and ending with a plateful of creamy goodness. Let’s break it down into sections for better clarity.

Ingredients

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

Directions

Step 1: Make the Gnocchi

• Start by boiling the cubed butternut squash until it is soft. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes. After boiling, drain the squash and let it cool slightly.
• Once it is cool enough to handle, mash the squash into a smooth puree. Place the puree into a mixing bowl.
• Next, add the egg, flour, and some salt and pepper to the bowl with the squash. Mix the ingredients together until a soft dough forms.
• Take some flour and dust your clean work surface. Roll the dough into long ropes about the thickness of your thumb.
• Cut these ropes into bite-sized pieces. If you want that classic gnocchi look, you can create ridges on each piece with the tines of a fork.

Step 2: Cook the Gnocchi

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. The salt adds flavor to the gnocchi while they cook.
• Gently drop the gnocchi into the boiling water. Wait until they float to the surface. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Floating indicates they are cooked through.
• Once they float, use a slotted spoon to remove them from the water. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

• In a saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
• Add the minced garlic to the butter and sauté it until it becomes fragrant, about 1 minute. You don’t want it to brown, as that can create a bitter taste.
• Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t boil over.
• Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the cream. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens slightly.
• Season the sauce with salt and pepper according to your taste.

Step 4: Cook the Sausage

• In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
• Add the chopped onion and cook it until it becomes translucent and soft, around 5 minutes.
• Crumble the Italian sausage into the pan with the onion. As it cooks, break it apart to ensure it browns evenly.
• Once the sausage is browned, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

Step 5: Combine

• In a large mixing bowl or pot, toss the cooked gnocchi with the creamy sauce. Make sure the gnocchi is well coated.
• Add the sausage mixture to the gnocchi and sauce. Gently mix everything together until combined.

Step 6: Serve

• Serve the creamy butternut squash gnocchi immediately. You can garnish it with more grated Parmesan, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, or additional red pepper flakes for a little extra kick.

How to Serve Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage

When it comes to serving your Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage, presentation can elevate the experience. Here are some simple tips to make your dish shine:

Plate It Right

• Use shallow bowls or wide plates to display the gnocchi beautifully.
• For added color, consider garnishing with freshly chopped parsley or basil. The green will contrast nicely with the orange of the butternut squash.

Pair with a Side

• A simple side salad is an excellent option to balance the richness of the gnocchi. A light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette can cut through the creaminess.
• Garlic bread or crusty bread also pairs well, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.

Wine Pairing

• If you enjoy wine, a glass of white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio can complement the dish beautifully.

How to Store Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage

If you have leftovers or want to prepare your meal in advance, storing it properly is essential.

Refrigeration

• Allow the gnocchi to cool to room temperature before placing them in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, you can reheat the gnocchi on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of cream or milk if needed to achieve the desired consistency.

Freezing

• If you plan to freeze the gnocchi, it is best to do so before combining with the sauce and sausage. Prepare the gnocchi, then lay them out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze them individually until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
• Frozen gnocchi can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. You can cook them straight from the freezer in boiling water.

Reheating

• When reheating the combined dish, do it gently on the stovetop over medium heat. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.

Tips to Make Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage

Making this dish can be fun, and a few tips can make it even better:

• Choose the Right Squash: Ensure your butternut squash is ripe. It should be firm and have a dull skin. A fresh squash makes for better flavor.

• Be Gentle with the Dough: When mixing your gnocchi dough, be careful not to overwork it. Overworking can lead to tough gnocchi instead of soft and pillowy ones.

• Testing for Doneness: If you’re unsure if the gnocchi is cooked through, you can cut one in half. It should be tender all the way through.

• Make It Ahead: Preparing the sauce and cooking the sausage ahead of time can save you effort when it’s time to serve.

• Add Veggies: If you want to enhance the dish, consider adding sautéed spinach or kale for an extra nutrition boost.

Variation

There are plenty of ways you can vary this recipe based on your preferences or what you have on hand:

• Use Different Sausage: If you prefer a milder flavor, you might opt for chicken sausage or turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage.

• Change the Cheese: Experiment with cheeses in the creamy sauce. Mozzarella or goat cheese will create a different flavor profile while still being delicious.

• Add Other Vegetables: Consider tossing in roasted mushrooms or bell peppers for added texture and flavor.

• Herbs: Fresh herbs such as thyme or sage can add a wonderful aroma to the dish.

FAQs

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the sausage and replace it with sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini.

How do I know if my butternut squash is ripe?

A ripe butternut squash will have a firm skin and a dull color. Avoid squashes with soft spots or shiny skins.

Can I batch cook this dish for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish is great for meal prep. You can cook the gnocchi and sauce separately, store them in airtight containers, and simply combine them when you’re ready to eat.

How can I make the gnocchi less sticky while rolling?

If your dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour onto your work surface and your hands while rolling the gnocchi to prevent sticking.

How long will the gnocchi last in the refrigerator?

The cooked gnocchi will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container.

Can I use store-bought gnocchi in this recipe?

Yes! If you’re short on time, you can absolutely use store-bought gnocchi. Just cook them according to package instructions and add them to the creamy sauce and sausage mixture.

This delightful Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage is a perfect meal to warm your soul and please your taste buds. Whether you follow the recipe to the letter or decide to make variations, the key is to enjoy the process and savor every bite. Happy cooking!

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