Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage is a delightful dish that combines the sweetness of butternut squash with the richness of a creamy sauce and the savory flavor of Italian sausage. This recipe is perfect for cooler weather when you want something warm and satisfying. It brings comfort and joy to the dinner table, making it a great choice for family meals or special gatherings. The homemade gnocchi adds a special touch, and with the creamy sauce and sausage, you have a well-rounded meal that everyone will love.

Why Make This Recipe

There are many reasons to make Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage. First, it is a hearty dish that provides a good balance of flavors and textures. The creamy sauce coats the soft, tender gnocchi, while the sausage adds a nice contrast. This dish is also visually appealing, with its beautiful colors from the butternut squash and the rich cream sauce.

Secondly, making homemade gnocchi is a fun and satisfying experience. While it may seem intimidating, once you get the hang of it, you will enjoy the process. Plus, you can know exactly what goes into your food when you make it from scratch.

Additionally, butternut squash is a healthy choice. It is full of vitamins and minerals, and its natural sweetness is a perfect base for this dish. This recipe can also be great for those looking to add more vegetables to their diet.

Finally, this dish is versatile. You can serve it as a main course or as a side dish. It is also easy to adapt for different diets, making it great for entertaining guests with different preferences.

How to Make Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage

Creating this delicious dish involves a few steps, but each is straightforward. Below are the ingredients you will need and the step-by-step directions to guide you through the process.

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

Make the Gnocchi:
Start by boiling the cubed butternut squash in a large pot until it becomes soft. This usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes. Once it is soft, drain the squash and let it cool for a few minutes. Mash the squash into a smooth puree and put it into a mixing bowl.
Prepare the Dough:
Add the egg, flour, salt, and pepper to the puree. Mix the ingredients until a soft dough forms. If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour until it is manageable.
Shape the Gnocchi:
After the dough is ready, roll small portions into long ropes about 1/2 inch thick. Cut these ropes into bite-sized pieces. To create ridges on the gnocchi, you can use the back of a fork. This will help the sauce cling better when serving.
Cook the Gnocchi:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the gnocchi. They are done when they float to the surface, usually in about 2-3 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
Prepare the Creamy Sauce:
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add minced garlic and sauté it until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer gently. Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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, about 5 minutes. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned, then add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Stir until the sausage is fully cooked.
Combine Everything:
In a large bowl, toss the cooked gnocchi with the creamy sauce. Then, add the sausage mixture and toss well to coat everything evenly.
Serve:
Serve your Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi hot. You can garnish with additional Parmesan cheese, freshly chopped herbs, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like some heat.

How to Serve Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage

When serving Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi, presentation can enhance the dining experience. Serve the gnocchi hot from the pan into shallow bowls or plates. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the gnocchi. A warm crusty bread on the side can also be a wonderful addition, perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.

Sprinkle some fresh herbs like basil or parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor. You can also offer extra Parmesan cheese at the table for guests to add to their portions.

How to Store Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage

If you have leftovers, storing Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi is very easy. Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. The gnocchi can last in the refrigerator for about 3 days.

You can reheat the dish in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or additional cream to help moisten the sauce. Stir until heated through. You can also use a microwave, but be aware that the texture may change slightly.

For longer storage, consider keeping the gnocchi uncooked. You can freeze the formed gnocchi in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once they are frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer bag. This way, you can cook them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Tips to Make Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage

Choose the Right Squash: For the best taste, try to select a ripe butternut squash. Look for one that feels heavy for its size, with a smooth skin and no soft spots.
Flour Measurement: Make sure to measure the flour correctly. Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid adding too much flour, which can make the gnocchi dense.
Testing Gnocchi: Before cooking all the gnocchi, cook a small test piece to check the fluffiness and flavor. Adjust the seasoning if needed.
Timing: Work efficiently so the gnocchi do not sit for too long before cooking. The dough is best when it’s fresh.
Add Vegetables: You can incorporate spinach or kale into the dish for added nutrition. Throw them into the sauce a few minutes before serving for a quick wilt.

Variation

For a vegetarian version of Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi, simply omit the sausage. You can replace the sausage with sautéed mushrooms or a hearty blend of vegetables to keep the texture interesting. Season well with herbs and spices to maintain robust flavors.

FAQs

1. Can I make the gnocchi ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the gnocchi ahead of time and freeze them. Just make sure to freeze them in a single layer initially, then transfer them to a freezer bag.

2. How can I make the sauce lighter?

To lighten the creamy sauce, you can use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream. Keep in mind that the texture and richness will be different.

3. Can I use a different type of sausage?

Absolutely! You can use any type of sausage you prefer, such as turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even a spiced sausage for extra flavor.

4. Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi makes for great meal prep. Just portion out the servings and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days.

5. Can I add cheese to the gnocchi dough?

Yes, adding a bit of grated cheese like Parmesan or mozzarella to the dough can enhance the flavor of the gnocchi. Adjust the flour accordingly if needed to maintain the right dough consistency.

By following this recipe, you can enjoy a wonderful, homemade dish of Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage that warms the heart and delights the taste buds. Happy cooking!