Indulge in Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage Today!

As the air turns crisp and the leaves begin to change, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a steaming plate of Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage. This seasonal dish combines the natural sweetness of butternut squash with savory Italian sausage and a velvety cream sauce, creating a cozy and satisfying meal that’s perfect for chilly autumn evenings. Let’s dive into the delicious details of this comforting recipe.

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Mastering the Art of Homemade Gnocchi

Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage features the star ingredient – homemade gnocchi. Gnocchi, those little pillowy potato dumplings, have a long and storied history in Italian cuisine. While store-bought gnocchi can be convenient, there’s something truly special about crafting these bite-sized delights from scratch. The process of mixing, rolling, and shaping the dough allows you to control the texture and flavor, ensuring each morsel is a delight to the senses.

Unlike traditional potato-based gnocchi, this recipe puts a seasonal spin on the classic by incorporating roasted and mashed butternut squash. The natural sweetness of the squash complements the other ingredients beautifully, creating a unique and irresistible flavor profile. Plus, the homemade gnocchi are a breeze to prepare, making this dish an approachable and rewarding cooking experience.

Ingredients for Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage

To bring this Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage to life, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Gnocchi:

• 1 lb butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 egg
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sausage:

• 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage

Now that you have all the necessary ingredients, let’s get cooking!

Cook the Squash

Start by boiling or steaming the butternut squash until it’s tender, about 10–12 minutes. Drain the squash and mash it until smooth, then let it cool slightly.

Make the Gnocchi

In a large bowl, combine the mashed squash, flour, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until a dough forms. On a floured surface, roll the dough into ropes and cut it into 1-inch pieces. Gently press each piece with a fork to create ridges.

Cook the Gnocchi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi in batches until they float to the surface, about 2–3 minutes. Remove the cooked gnocchi with a slotted spoon and set them aside.

Cook the Sausage

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, along with the onion, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Cook until the sausage is browned and the onions are softened, about 6–8 minutes.

Make the Sauce

In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, cooking until the sauce is slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked gnocchi and sausage mixture to the sauce, tossing gently to coat everything evenly. Serve the Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

Variations and Customizations: Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage

While this Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage recipe is a delightful autumn delight as is, there are a few ways to customize it to suit your tastes. For a vegetarian version, you can swap out the sausage for sautéed mushrooms or wilted spinach. If you prefer a richer sauce, try using half-and-half or a blend of heavy cream and milk. And for a bit of heat, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and a crusty loaf of garlic bread for sopping up the creamy sauce. A glass of full-bodied red wine, such as a Chianti or Merlot, can also complement the rich flavors of this comforting meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish with store-bought gnocchi instead of homemade?

Absolutely! While homemade gnocchi adds a special touch, you can certainly use store-bought gnocchi to simplify the process. Just be sure to follow the package instructions for cooking the gnocchi before tossing it with the sauce and sausage.

What type of sausage works best for this recipe?

Traditional Italian sausage, either sweet or hot, works beautifully in this Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi dish. You can also experiment with different types of sausage, such as chicken or turkey sausage, to suit your preferences.

Is it possible to make a vegetarian version of this dish?

Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version of this Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi recipe. Instead of sausage, you can sauté mushrooms, spinach, or other seasonal vegetables to mix into the creamy sauce.

How can I make the sauce extra creamy without adding too much cream?

To achieve a luxuriously creamy sauce without relying too heavily on heavy cream, you can try substituting some of the cream with milk or using a combination of cream and milk. You can also stir in a bit of cream cheese or mascarpone to the sauce to enhance the creaminess.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine with Garlic Cajun Butter
• Butternut Squash Lasagna Soup
• Tasty Rotisserie Chicken Gnocchi Soup
• Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet

Embrace the flavors of the season with this comforting and delicious Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage recipe. Whether you’re gathering with loved ones or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish is sure to warm your soul and leave you craving more. Give it a try and savor the taste of fall!

Looking for more tasty ideas? Visit Elena’s Fast & Flavorful Recipes on Pinterest for a treasure trove of easy meals, comforting bakes, and fun kitchen inspiration!

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