This creamy butternut squash gnocchi is a warm hug on a plate! It’s packed with tender gnocchi, sweet squash, and hearty sausage, making it a comforting meal for any day.
I can’t get enough of the creamy sauce—it’s so delicious, you might want to drink it! Pair it with a sprinkle of parmesan for extra goodness. Trust me, you’ll love it!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butternut Squash Gnocchi: This is the star of the dish! You can buy it fresh or frozen. If you want to go homemade, just mix mashed butternut squash with flour and egg. Alternatively, sweet potato gnocchi works well too.
Italian Sausage: I like using mild sausage for a balanced flavor, but you can choose spicy for more heat or even chicken or turkey sausage for a leaner option.
Heavy Cream: For creaminess, heavy cream is great, but if you want a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
Parmesan Cheese: It adds a rich, cheesy flavor. You can substitute it with Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.
How Do I Get the Gnocchi Just Right?
Cooking gnocchi might sound tricky, but it’s easy! The key is to cook them until they float. Here’s how to ensure they’re perfect:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add gnocchi and watch closely—when they float to the top, they’re done!
- Use a slotted spoon to remove them before they overcook. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
This technique helps keep the texture light and fluffy, so you don’t end up with mushy gnocchi. Happy cooking!
Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage
Ingredients List:
For the Dish:
- 1 pound butternut squash gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- 12 ounces Italian sausage (mild or spicy), sliced into rounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 20 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’re looking at about 35 minutes to get this creamy, delicious meal on the table. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Sausage:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside for later.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the minced garlic and chopped shallot, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 1-2 minutes. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
3. Cook the Gnocchi:
Add the butternut squash gnocchi to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the gnocchi starts to turn golden brown and puff up, which should take about 4-5 minutes.
4. Mix in the Cream:
Reduce the heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir well to combine, allowing the cream to warm and thicken slightly, about 2-3 minutes. This is where it starts getting creamy!
5. Add Cheese & Herbs:
Next, add the grated Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat), chopped parsley, and fresh thyme. Stir everything together until the cheese melts and blends into a luscious sauce.
6. Combine with Sausage:
Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and toss everything together until the gnocchi is well-coated in the creamy sauce. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking.
7. Final Cook and Serve:
Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through. Then, serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy this creamy, comforting dish!
Dig in and savor every bite of your creamy butternut squash gnocchi with sausage!
Can I Use Frozen Gnocchi for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen gnocchi works great. Just add them directly to the boiling water without thawing, cooking until they float to the surface, which usually indicates they’re done. Then follow the recipe as directed!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half can work well. For a non-dairy alternative, try canned coconut milk or cashew cream to maintain the creaminess without the dairy!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Spinach, kale, or even roasted bell peppers would be delicious additions. Just sauté them with the garlic and shallots for a nutritious boost!
