Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Savory Sausage Delight 🍂🧀🥘
1. Introduction
Experience the perfect blend of fall flavors with this butternut squash gnocchi recipe paired with savory sausage. This dish combines the creaminess of creamy gnocchi with the hearty taste of seasoned sausage, making it a comforting meal for any occasion. Learn how to create this flavorful squash pasta dish that will definitely impress your family and friends!
2. Ingredients for Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lb savory sausage (pork, chicken, or turkey)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for a dairy-free version
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh sage or parsley for garnish
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Squash Gnocchi
Prepare the Butternut Squash
Roast or steam the butternut squash until tender. Once cooked, mash it thoroughly to create a smooth puree. This squash puree is the foundation of your creamy gnocchi.
Make the Gnocchi Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed squash, beaten egg, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Gradually add the flour, mixing gently until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix to keep the gnocchi light and fluffy.
Shape the Gnocchi
Divide the dough into smaller portions. Roll each portion into a long rope about ¾ inch thick. Cut into bite-sized pieces and press each piece with a fork to create ridges that will hold the sauce beautifully.
Cook the Gnocchi
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook until they float to the surface—about 2-3 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a plate.
Cook the Savory Sausage
While the gnocchi cook, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until browned and cooked through. Add minced garlic during the last minute of cooking.
Make the Creamy Sauce
Reduce the heat to low, then pour in the heavy cream. Stir well and let it simmer for a few minutes to thicken slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine and Serve
Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet with the sausage and creamy sauce. Toss gently to coat evenly. Garnish with freshly chopped sage or parsley before serving.
4. Storage Tips for Gnocchi and Sausage Dishes
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to restore creaminess. Avoid freezing this dish as the texture of the gnocchi may change upon thawing.
5. Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Squash Pasta
Pair this sausage gnocchi recipe with a side of roasted Brussels sprouts or a light mixed greens salad. For an extra flavor boost, sprinkle some grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese over the top. For more cozy fall recipes, explore apple brownies or pumpkin French toast.
6. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set – Ensures even heat distribution for perfectly cooked gnocchi and sausage, making your cooking smoother.
- Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master – Makes chopping and preparing your butternut squash effortless.
- Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker – Keep drinks chilled during your dinner with this handy kitchen gadget.
- KitchenAid Classic Iconic Stand Mixer – Perfect for mixing dough or preparing other culinary delights with ease.
7. Frequently Asked Questions About Butternut Squash Gnocchi
Can I substitute sweet potatoes for butternut squash?
Yes, sweet potatoes can be used as a substitute, offering a slightly different flavor but similar texture. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
To make it gluten-free, replace all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends or almond flour. Ensure the sausage is also gluten-free.
How long does it take to make this recipe?
Overall, prepare and cook this dish in about 45 minutes, making it a great quick yet gourmet meal option.
8. Conclusion
This butternut squash gnocchi with savory sausage is a delightful combination of creamy and hearty flavors, perfect for fall and winter dinners. With simple steps and fresh ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality squash pasta dish that will impress your loved ones. Don’t forget to try different sausage types or add your favorite herbs to customize this recipe to your taste!
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Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Savory Sausage Delight
Creamy butternut squash gnocchi paired with savory sausage creates a delightful and hearty dish, perfect for cozy nights or entertaining guests.
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 pound Italian sausage links, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Fresh sage or herbs for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roast butternut squash on a baking sheet for 40-45 minutes until tender. Let cool.
- In a food processor, blend roasted squash until smooth. Transfer to a bowl.
- Add flour, egg, salt, and pepper to the squash. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Divide dough into portions and roll into long ropes. Cut into 1-inch pieces to form gnocchi.
- In a large skillet, cook sausage slices in olive oil until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Cook gnocchi in boiling salted water until they float, about 2-3 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon.
- In the same skillet, add heavy cream to sausage drippings, bring to simmer, then toss in gnocchi. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and serve warm.
Notes
- For a vegan version, substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage and use coconut cream.
- Ensure the squash is well pureed to achieve tender gnocchi textures.
- Gnocchi can be frozen before cooking for quick meal prep.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Method: Bake and Sauté
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Diet: Nut-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 450 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 750 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 16 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg