If you’re looking for a delicious comfort meal that combines the warmth of butternut squash with the richness of sausage, then you’re in for a treat. This Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi recipe isn’t only bursting with flavors but also creates a cozy atmosphere in your kitchen that is perfect for any occasion. You might think that making gnocchi from scratch is daunting, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll be whipping up this dish like a pro.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Creamy: The sauce is super creamy and has that lovely autumn flavor thanks to the butternut squash.
- Savory and Satisfying: With the added sausage, each bite is packed full of richness.
- Herbal Notes: Thyme and sage elevate the dish with their fragrant aroma, giving it that comforting feel.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we jump into the cooking process, let’s gather up all the ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for this creamy gnocchi dish:
For the Gnocchi
- 2 cups butternut squash: Peeled and cubed (about 1 medium squash)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- Salt: To taste
- Nutmeg: A pinch for flavor
For the Sauce
- 1 lb. sausage: Mild or spicy, depending on preference
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion: Chopped
- 2-3 cloves garlic: Minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- Parmesan cheese: For serving
- Salt and pepper: To taste
- Fresh herbs: Optional for garnish
Preparing the Butternut Squash
First things first, let’s kick off by roasting the butternut squash. Roasting brings out its natural sweetness and makes for a fantastic base for your gnocchi.
- Preheat your oven: Set it to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the squash: Peel, seed, and cube your butternut squash into bite-sized pieces.
- Season generously: Toss the cubes with olive oil, salt, and a pinch of nutmeg.
- Roast it: Spread the squash on a baking sheet and roast for about 25-30 minutes, or until tender, turning once halfway.
Once done, let it cool slightly before muddling it into a smooth puree either using a food processor or a fork.
Making the Gnocchi Dough
Now that you’ve got your butternut squash, let’s make some delicious gnocchi!
- Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the butternut squash puree, ricotta cheese, and egg. Stir until smooth.
- Incorporate the flour: Gradually add the flour and a pinch of salt. Knead it lightly for about 2-3 minutes until it forms a soft dough. Be careful not to over-knead; you want the dough to be slightly tacky but manageable.
- Shape into logs: Divide your dough into small pieces, rolling each into a long log about ¾ inch thick.
- Cut into pieces: Use a knife to cut the logs into 1-inch pieces to form your gnocchi.
- Shape your gnocchi: You can leave them as is or press each piece gently with the back of a fork to create ridges. This helps the sauce cling better!
Cooking the Gnocchi
Boiling the gnocchi is both simple and satisfying.
- Bring water to a boil: Fill a large pot with water, adding a generous pinch of salt.
- Boil the gnocchi: Drop the gnocchi into the boiling water. They’re done when they float to the top, which takes about 2-3 minutes.
- Remove and drain: Use a slotted spoon to remove them gently, allowing them to drain on a towel.
Preparing the Sauce
While the gnocchi are cooking, you can whip up that creamy sauce to bring all the flavors together.
- Cook the sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and cook the sausage until browned. Break it apart with your spoon as it cooks.
- Add onions and garlic: Once the sausage is browned, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent.
- Pour in cream: Stir in the heavy cream, dried thyme, and dried sage. Allow it to simmer on low heat for about 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Season to taste: Taste and personalize it with salt and pepper!
Combining Gnocchi and Sauce
Now comes the part where everything comes together.
- Add the gnocchi: Once the sauce is ready, gently toss in the gnocchi.
- Coat them well: Stir carefully to ensure all the gnocchi is well-coated in that delicious creamy sauce.
- Heat through: Allow it to cook for an additional minute or two to warm everything through.
Serving Your Dish
It’s almost time to enjoy the fruits of your labor! Here’s how to serve:
- Plate it up: Serve the creamy butternut squash gnocchi in bowls.
- Generously garnish: Sprinkle parmesan cheese on top and add fresh herbs if you want some added freshness.
Tips for the Perfect Gnocchi
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh butternut squash, herbs, and quality sausage make a world of difference.
- Don’t overwork the dough: Gentle handling creates a light and fluffy gnocchi.
- Experiment with flavors: Feel free to mix and match herbs or even throw in some spinach for a pop of color.
Making This Dish Your Own
One of the best things about cooking is making a dish your own, so don’t hesitate to get creative! Here are a few ideas:
Add Vegetables
- Spinach: Toss in some fresh spinach for a vibrant color and added nutrition.
- Mushrooms: Sauté some mushrooms with your sausage for an earthy flavor boost.
Try Different Sauces
- Tomato Basil: If you’re craving something a little saucier, try a fresh tomato basil sauce instead of cream.
- Pesto: Drizzle some homemade or store-bought pesto for a different flavor profile.
Enjoying Leftovers
If you have any left after your meal (which might be unlikely!), you can store the Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce.
Final Thoughts
Making Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage, Thyme, and Sage might sound complex, but with a little patience and some love, it can become a favorite dish in your household. Indulge in its creamy texture and savor the delightful flavors it’s the perfect comfort food for chilly evenings or family gatherings.
Don’t forget to share your creation with friends and family. After all, the joy of cooking is best enjoyed when shared. Happy cooking!