Butternut Squash Gnocchi With Sausage Recipe is a dish that brings warmth and comfort right to your dinner table. With its luscious flavors and delightful textures, it’s sure to be a hit for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings. You’ll find that the combination of butternut squash, pillowy gnocchi, and savory sausage creates a harmonious symphony of taste.
What is Butternut Squash Gnocchi?
Butternut squash gnocchi is a delicious variation of the classic Italian potato gnocchi. Instead of using potatoes, it uses roasted butternut squash, which gives it a slightly sweet flavor and vibrant color. This dish can be paired with various sauces or simply tossed in butter and sage.
Ingredients for Butternut Squash Gnocchi With Sausage Recipe
- Ingredients for Gnocchi
- 2 cups mashed butternut squash (freshly roasted)
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 1 large egg (lightly beaten)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Ingredients for the Sauce
- 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, to your preference)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Fresh sage leaves (for garnish)
How to Make Butternut Squash Gnocchi
- Roast the Butternut Squash: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Cut the squash in half, scoop out the seeds, and place it cut-side down on a baking sheet. Roast for about 30-40 minutes or until tender. Let it cool, then scoop the flesh into a bowl and mash it until smooth.
- Prepare the Gnocchi Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed butternut squash, beaten egg, and salt. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. The dough should be slightly sticky but not wet. Dust your work surface with flour before transferring the dough to make it easier to handle.
- Shape the Gnocchi: Divide the dough into four pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, about half an inch thick. Cut the rope into small pieces, about 1 inch long. You can use the tines of a fork to create indentations on each piece to help the sauce cling better.
- Cook the Gnocchi: In a large pot of salted boiling water, drop the gnocchi in batches. Cook them until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a plate and set aside.
How to Make the Sausage Sauce
- Cook the Sausage: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Remove the sausage from its casing, crumbling it into the pan. Cook until browned and evenly cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Garlic: Once the sausage is cooked, add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- Create the Cream Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Bringing It All Together
- Combine Gnocchi and Sauce: Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet with the sauce, gently tossing to coat the gnocchi evenly.
- Serve and Garnish: Once everything is well combined and heated through, plate the dish. Garnish with fresh sage leaves and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips for the Best Butternut Squash Gnocchi With Sausage
- Choose the Right Squash: Look for a firm and heavy butternut squash. The skin should be smooth with a uniform color.
- Roast for Flavor: Roasting the squash concentrates its sweetness and enhances the flavor.
- Don’t Overwork the Dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough gnocchi, so mix just until combined.
- Test the Sauce: Always taste your sauce before serving. Adjust the seasoning as needed to suit your taste.
- Serve Hot: Gnocchi tastes best when served hot and fresh, so try to serve it right after cooking.
How to Serve Butternut Squash Gnocchi With Sausage
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad for a well-balanced meal. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce.
Side Dish Suggestions
- Mixed Greens Salad: Lightly dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for enjoying all those creamy flavors.
- Roasted Vegetables: A blend of seasonal vegetables adds color and nutrition.
Storage Tips for Leftovers
Leftover gnocchi can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm them on the stovetop with a splash of cream or olive oil to keep them moist.
Variations of This Recipe
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute sausage with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables.
- Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for an extra kick.
- Change Your Cheese: Try pecorino or a cheese that you love for a different flavor profile.
Nutritional Benefits of Butternut Squash Gnocchi
Butternut squash is packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. It’s a fantastic option for adding nutrients to your diet while still indulging in carbohydrates from gnocchi. The sausage contributes protein, making this dish hearty and satisfying.