Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi With Savory Sausage

If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening, you’ve come to the right place! This Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi With Savory Sausage recipe is one of my all-time favorites. It’s rich, comforting, and so easy to whip up on those busy weeknights or during cozy family gatherings. The combination of tender potato gnocchi and savory Italian beef sausage, all enveloped in a luscious butternut squash cream sauce, makes every bite an exquisite experience.

What I love most about this recipe is how it balances both savory and subtly sweet flavors. It’s perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself after a long day. Plus, you can easily adjust it to suit your taste or what you have on hand!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in about 35 minutes, making it perfect for any night when you’re short on time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love gnocchi! This creamy sauce hides nutritious veggies while still being delicious.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and just cook the gnocchi when you’re ready to eat.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of fresh herbs with the rich butternut squash creates an unforgettable flavor profile.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients for this delightful dish. You’ll find everything here enhances the flavors beautifully without any fuss.

• 12 oz Italian beef sausage, casings removed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 10 oz potato gnocchi
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 cup butternut squash puree
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme
• Salt and coarsely ground black pepper to taste

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily tweak it to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef sausage.
• Vegan twist: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use plant-based sausage for a vegan version that’s still rich and creamy.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale at the end for added nutrition without compromising taste.
• Change the herbs: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or oregano for a unique flavor profile.

How to Make Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi With Savory Sausage

Step 1: Prepare Sausage

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the Italian beef sausage (casings removed) and break it up as it cooks. Browning it thoroughly for about 5-7 minutes adds depth to the flavor. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat!

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Now that your sausage is browned, add in the minced garlic, chopped fresh sage, and thyme. Sautéing these aromatics for just 1-2 minutes releases their natural oils and fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.

Step 3: Build Sauce

Stir in the chicken broth and butternut squash puree next. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, cooking for about five minutes. Lower the heat and slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously. This step thickens your sauce—let it simmer for another 3-5 minutes before seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Cook Gnocchi

While your sauce is simmering away, bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a rolling boil. Add in the potato gnocchi and cook until they float to the surface—this usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Give them an extra minute just to ensure they’re perfectly tender before removing them with a slotted spoon.

Step 5: Combine & Serve

Finally, transfer your cooked gnocchi directly into that luscious creamy sausage sauce. Toss gently to coat each piece beautifully. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh Parmesan cheese if desired (or skip it for dairy-free!). Enjoy this comforting bowl of goodness with loved ones!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi With Savory Sausage

Making this dish is a delightful experience, and with a few pro tips, you can elevate your cooking game even further!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality sausage make a significant difference in flavor. This enhances the overall taste of your dish, creating a more aromatic and savory experience.

• Don’t Overcook the Gnocchi: Once they float to the surface, it’s time to remove them. Overcooked gnocchi can turn mushy, so keep an eye on them for that perfect texture.

• Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, feel free to reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute it with a lighter option like half-and-half. This allows you to customize the dish according to your dietary preferences.

• Experiment with Spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg or crushed red pepper flakes for an extra layer of flavor. These spices can enhance the sweetness of the butternut squash and add a bit of warmth to each bite.

• Make Ahead: Prepare the butternut squash puree in advance and store it in the fridge. It saves time on busy days and allows you to whip up this delicious meal in no time.

How to Serve Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi With Savory Sausage

Presenting this creamy gnocchi dish can be just as enjoyable as making it! Here are some ideas on how to serve it beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped sage or thyme on top for a burst of color and flavor right before serving.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: A light dusting of freshly grated Parmesan adds richness and umami, enhancing the dish’s overall taste.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and balsamic vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the gnocchi.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The nutty flavor of roasted Brussels sprouts complements the creamy sauce beautifully, making for a well-rounded meal.
• Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce, adding that comforting carb element to your dinner table.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition; its slight bitterness balances out the sweet creaminess of the sauce perfectly.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi With Savory Sausage recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and enjoy its comforting flavors throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• To maintain the best quality, avoid storing with garnishes like cheese until you’re ready to serve.

Freezing

• Let the gnocchi dish cool entirely before freezing.
• Portion out servings into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
• Stir occasionally until heated through, ensuring not to overcook the gnocchi.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe!

Can I use a different type of sausage in Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi With Savory Sausage?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with turkey sausage or any other savory sausage that fits your preference. Just ensure that it’s cooked through before adding it to your creamy sauce.

Is there a vegetarian option for Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi With Savory Sausage?

Yes! You can replace the sausage with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based sausage alternative. This will still give you a hearty flavor while keeping it vegetarian.

How can I make this dish dairy-free?

To make this dish dairy-free, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. You can also use a dairy-free cheese alternative as a topping if desired.

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to bring this Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi With Savory Sausage into your kitchen! It’s not only indulgent but also brings warmth and comfort to any meal. Enjoy making it as much as I enjoyed sharing it with you, and don’t hesitate to tweak it to your taste. Happy cooking!