This creamy butternut squash gnocchi with sausage is a cozy dish that warms your heart. The soft gnocchi pairs perfectly with the flavorful sausage and rich squash sauce!
Who doesn’t love a meal that feels like a hug? I enjoy serving it with a sprinkle of cheese. It’s like adding the cherry on top of an already sweet sundae! 💛
Making this meal is easy! Just cook the sausage, toss in the squash, and mix with the gnocchi. It’s a quick treat that’s both creamy and delicious. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Gnocchi: Store-bought gnocchi is quick and easy to use. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can make your own using potato, flour, and eggs. If you’re gluten-free, look for gluten-free gnocchi options available at many grocery stores.
Italian Sausage: You can choose between mild or spicy depending on your heat preference. If you want a lighter version, turkey or chicken sausage is a great substitute that still packs flavor.
Butternut Squash: Fresh roasted squash is lovely, but canned puree is a fantastic time-saver. If you’re in a pinch, pumpkin puree can work too—it’s slightly different in flavor but still delicious!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter sauce, you can replace some or all of the heavy cream with half-and-half or even a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk, though keep in mind it may change the texture a bit.
How Do I Make Sure My Sauce is Creamy?
The key to a creamy sauce lies in the proper combination of your ingredients and cooking techniques. Here’s how to achieve that perfect texture:
- Use moderate heat: Keep the heat low to medium when adding the cream. High heat can make it curdle.
- Add cheese gradually: Stir in the Parmesan cheese once the sauce is heated through. This helps it melt uniformly into the sauce.
- Stir consistently: Mixing frequently will help ensure the cheese and cream blend well together instead of clumping.
With these tips, your sauce will turn out perfectly creamy and delightful every time!
How to Make Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 package (16 oz) store-bought gnocchi
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 2 cups butternut squash puree (fresh or canned)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- Fresh sage leaves, for garnish (about 8-10 leaves)
- Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, for a total of about 35 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick and perfect for any night when you want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Butternut Squash Puree:
If you’re using fresh butternut squash, start by peeling and cubing it. Roast the cubes at 400°F (200°C) for about 30 minutes or until they’re tender. Once they’re ready, blend them in a food processor until smooth. You can also skip this step and use canned butternut squash puree instead. Easy peasy!
2. Cooking the Gnocchi:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, add the gnocchi. They will cook quickly—about 2 to 3 minutes, or until they float to the top of the water. When they’re done, use a slotted spoon to remove them and set aside.
3. Cooking the Sausage:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and use a spoon to break it into bite-sized pieces. Cook until it’s nicely browned and fully cooked through, which should take around 5 to 7 minutes. Once done, remove it from the pan and set it aside.
4. Making the Sauce Base:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and the butter. Toss in the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, which will take around 3 to 4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it’s fragrant. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
5. Adding Butternut Squash and Cream:
Stir in the butternut squash puree along with the heavy cream. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 3 to 4 minutes until it’s warmed through and slightly thickened. Now is the time to get those flavors mingling together!
6. Combining Gnocchi and Sausage:
Carefully add the cooked gnocchi and browned sausage back into the skillet with the sauce. Stir everything together to combine and heat through for about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to your taste.
7. Adding Cheese:
Now, add the grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir it in until it melts and blends into the creamy sauce, creating a rich and luscious texture. This is the magic moment!
8. Optional Crispy Sausage Pieces:
If you desire a little extra flavor and texture, consider removing the sausage pieces and quickly sautéing them in a separate pan until they get crispy. Then return them to mix with the gnocchi and sauce.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Transfer the creamy gnocchi and sausage dish to a serving bowl. Top with extra Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh sage leaves and thyme, if using. Serve hot and enjoy every mouthful of this comforting dish!
This creamy butternut squash gnocchi with sausage is sure to become a favorite. Its delicious blend of sweet and savory flavors makes it perfect for a cozy night in. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Frozen Gnocchi?
Yes, frozen gnocchi is a great option! Just cook them according to the package instructions, usually boiling them until they float to the surface, which typically takes a few minutes.
Can I Substitute the Sausage?
Absolutely! You can use turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option, or even vegetarian sausage to make this dish vegetarian. Just ensure the sausage is cooked thoroughly for the best flavor.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth if it seems dry.
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. If you want something hearty, a slice of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce!
