This delicious creamy butternut squash gnocchi is a warm hug on a plate! Soft gnocchi combines with savory sausage and a rich, creamy sauce that brings all the flavors together.
You’ll love how easy it is to make, and it’s perfect for cozy dinners. I like to top it with a sprinkle of cheese and maybe some green herbs for a pop of color. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butternut Squash Gnocchi: You can find store-bought gnocchi in most grocery stores. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider making your own! You could also use regular potato gnocchi. Just keep in mind it might alter the flavor slightly.
Italian Sausage: Use either mild or spicy based on your taste preference. If you want a lighter option, turkey or chicken sausage works well too. Or, for a vegetarian twist, substitute with mushrooms or lentils for a hearty texture.
Heavy Cream: This gives a rich taste, but you can replace it with half-and-half or a plant-based cream if you want to cut calories or make it dairy-free. Coconut cream is a tasty alternative too!
Sage: Fresh sage adds a wonderful flavor, but if you can’t find it, dried sage can be used. Just remember to use less, as dried herbs are more concentrated. Thyme or rosemary also make great replacements!
How Do I Make Sure My Sauce is Smooth and Creamy?
Creating a silky sauce is all about the heat and timing. Here’s how to get it right:
- After deglazing the pan with wine or broth, make sure to let it reduce. This concentrates the flavors and gives a base for the cream.
- When you add the heavy cream, do it gradually and stir frequently to ensure it mixes well with the other ingredients.
- Keep your heat on medium-low while incorporating the grated Parmesan. It will melt evenly and contribute to that creamy texture you want.
Following these steps will help you achieve a sauce that’s rich and creamy without any lumps!
Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 package (about 16 oz) butternut squash gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed and crumbled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter
For the Saucy Goodness:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional, can substitute with chicken broth)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh sage leaves (about 8-10 leaves)
- Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take approximately 20-25 minutes to prepare, from start to finish. You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep and another 15 minutes for cooking the dish. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Gnocchi:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the gnocchi. They are usually ready when they float to the surface, which takes about 2-3 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the pot and set them aside on a plate.
2. Cook the Sausage:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the crumbled sausage to the skillet. Cook it while breaking it up with a spoon until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving the flavorful fat in the skillet.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet with the sausage fat, add the finely chopped onion. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until it turns translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant.
4. Deglaze the Pan:
Pour in the dry white wine (or chicken broth) to deglaze the pan. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any delicious browned bits from the bottom. Let the mixture simmer for about 2-3 minutes until it reduces by half.
5. Make it Creamy:
Reduce the heat to medium-low. Stir in the heavy cream and slowly bring it to a gentle simmer. Then, add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
6. Add Sage and Seasoning:
Gently stir in the fresh sage leaves, allowing their flavor to infuse the sauce. Taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your preference.
7. Combine Gnocchi and Sausage:
Add the cooked gnocchi and sausage back to the skillet. Carefully toss everything together until the gnocchi are coated evenly with the creamy sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat through.
8. Finish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish your creamy butternut squash gnocchi with additional fresh sage leaves or thyme, and sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm, and enjoy!
This dish is sure to be a hit with its comforting flavors and creamy texture!
Can I Use Frozen Gnocchi for This Recipe?
Yes, frozen gnocchi works perfectly! Just add them directly to the boiling water without thawing. They may need an extra minute to cook compared to fresh gnocchi, so follow the cooking instructions on the package.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk for a similar consistency. For a dairy-free alternative, coconut cream or a blend of unsweetened almond milk with cornstarch can also create a creamy texture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! You can easily incorporate vegetables like spinach, kale, or roasted red peppers for added flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them with the onion and garlic before adding the cream for an extra boost!
