Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage

Nothing says cozy like a warm bowl of Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage! This dish features rich, creamy flavors combined with tender gnocchi and savory sausage, creating a culinary experience that’s simply irresistible. Did you know that gnocchi, often made from potatoes, can also be prepared using other ingredients like butternut squash? This versatile ingredient not only adds a vibrant color but also a delightful sweetness that perfectly complements the savory sausage.

What makes this recipe even more special is how simple it is to whip up a delicious meal that the entire family will love. Unlike traditional pasta recipes that can take hours to prepare, you can have this cozy dish on the table in no time! If you enjoy tasty, quick meals like our One-Pot Pasta Primavera, then you’ll absolutely adore this recipe. So let’s jump right in and explore the wonderful world of Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage!

What is Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage?

Gnocchi – such a funny little word, isn’t it? It sounds like a sneeze you’re trying to suppress! But fear not; this delightful dish is more about comfort than humor. Originating from Italy, gnocchi translates to “lumps” in reference to its shape. And let’s be honest, isn’t there something oh-so-satisfying about a comforting bowl of lumpiness? Plus, no one can argue with the classic saying, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” So whether you’re cooking for friends, family, or just treating yourself, this dish is sure to win hearts! Ready to dive in and give this comforting recipe a try?

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage

There are countless reasons to love Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage! First off, the star of the dish is undoubtedly the butternut squash—that velvety creaminess adds a touch of warmth, making every bite feel like a hug. Second, making it at home saves you so much money compared to restaurant prices, and trust me, your wallet will thank you! Lastly, let’s talk about flavor: the combination of savory sausage and the sweetness of butternut squash makes this dish a taste sensation.

If you enjoy creamy meals but want to switch things up from your usual Alfredo pasta, this dish is a fantastic alternative that everyone will enjoy. So why not give it a whirl? You won’t be disappointed!

How to Make Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage

Quick Overview

Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage is not only delicious but also a breeze to make! Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a winner in the kitchen. With its luscious creamy sauce and delightful textures, it promises to satisfy your hunger while being a delightful experience for your taste buds!

Key Ingredients for Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage:

To create this delicious dish, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound gnocchi
• 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound Italian sausage (choose chicken or turkey for a lighter option)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream (or a dairy-free alternative)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Gnocchi: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the gnocchi, and cook according to the package instructions until they float. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Butternut Squash: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced butternut squash and cook until tender, about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
3. Add Sausage and Garlic: Once the squash is tender, add the Italian sausage to the skillet. Break apart the sausage as it cooks, browning it for about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Make the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and combine with the cream.
5. Combine Everything: Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet and gently toss everything together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve: Divide the creamy gnocchi among bowls, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy your delicious, comforting meal!

What to Serve Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage With

To complement your Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage, consider serving it with a simple side salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. This will provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish. Garlic bread is another fantastic choice, perfect for soaking up that delicious creamy sauce. For beverages, a crisp white wine or sparkling water with a slice of lemon adds an extra touch to this cozy meal.

Top Tips for Perfecting Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage

1. Perfectly Cooked Gnocchi: To avoid mushy gnocchi, ensure your water is at a rolling boil before adding it in. Cook only in small batches for the best texture.
2. Add Spice: If you want to spice things up, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sausage while it cooks for an extra kick!
3. Dairy-Free Option: For a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk and omit the Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
4. Storage: This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a quick reheat on the stove.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Leftovers of your Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to freeze it, place the cooled dish into freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and then gently reheat on the stove. Adding a splash of cream or broth as it warms up can restore its creamy texture. Your future self will thank you!

Now that you have all the tips and tricks to make Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and enjoy this heartwarming dish. Happy cooking!

Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage

A comforting dish featuring creamy butternut squash gnocchi paired with savory sausage, perfect for cozy family meals.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 600

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound gnocchi
• 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound Italian sausage Choose chicken or turkey for a lighter option.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream or a dairy-free alternative.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Method

 

Preparation

1. Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions until they float. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced butternut squash and cook until tender, about 8-10 minutes.
3. Add the Italian sausage to the skillet, breaking it apart as it cooks for about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.
5. Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet and gently toss everything together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Divide the creamy gnocchi among bowls, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

To avoid mushy gnocchi, ensure your water is at a rolling boil before adding it. For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and omit Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese. This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.