Butternut Squash & Sausage Gnocchi

If you’re craving a warm, comforting meal that’s quick to make yet bursting with flavor, this Butternut Squash & Sausage Gnocchi recipe is your new best friend. Combining tender gnocchi with sweet roasted butternut squash and savory sausage, it’s the perfect dish to cozy up with any night of the week. Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is simple enough for busy weeknights but special enough to impress family and friends. Let’s dive into this delicious, satisfying meal that brings the best of autumn’s flavors right to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fast and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for anyone short on time but craving something homemade.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Loaded with nutritious butternut squash and protein-rich sausage, making it both tasty and filling.
• Comfort Food Vibes: Gnocchi’s pillowy texture paired with savory sausage feels like a warm hug in every bite.
• Adaptable Flavors: Easy to tweak with herbs, spice levels, or even swap sausage varieties for different palettes.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup since much of the cooking happens in one skillet, saving you time and effort.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Butternut Squash & Sausage Gnocchi recipe requires just a handful of simple, high-quality ingredients that each bring something special to the dish. These components come together to create a perfect balance of flavor, color, and texture you’ll love.

• Gnocchi: Store-bought or homemade pillow-soft dumplings that soak up all the delicious sauce.
• Butternut squash: Roasted and tender, adding natural sweetness and a beautiful orange hue.
• Sausage: Italian or spicy sausage crumbles that lend savory richness and a satisfying bite.
• Garlic: Finely minced to add aromatic depth without overpowering the other flavors.
• Fresh sage or rosemary: Herbaceous notes that perfectly complement both squash and sausage.
• Olive oil or butter: Used for sautéing to boost flavor and give the dish a luscious finish.
• Parmesan cheese: Grated on top to add a savory, nutty layer that balances the sweetness of the squash.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of the ingredients.

Variations for Butternut Squash & Sausage Gnocchi

This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize based on what’s in your pantry or your dietary preferences. Whether you want it meatless, spicier, or packed with more veggies, it adapts beautifully.

• Vegetarian option: Substitute sausage with sautéed mushrooms or crumbled tempeh for a hearty plant-based twist.
• Spicy kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage to bring some heat.
• Extra veggies: Toss in kale, spinach, or roasted bell peppers for added color and nutrition.
• Dairy-free: Use vegan butter and skip the Parmesan or swap with a dairy-free cheese alternative.
• Herb swap: Replace sage with fresh thyme or parsley to change the flavor profile subtly.

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How to Make Butternut Squash & Sausage Gnocchi

Step 1: Prepare the Butternut Squash

Begin by peeling and dicing the butternut squash into even cubes. Heat some olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add the squash and cook until tender and slightly caramelized, about 8-10 minutes.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

Remove the squash and set aside. In the same skillet, add the sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Sauté until browned and cooked through, usually around 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Herbs

Add minced garlic and your choice of fresh sage or rosemary to the sausage. Stir for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, making sure the garlic doesn’t burn.

Step 4: Cook the Gnocchi

In a separate pot, boil water to cook the gnocchi according to package instructions, usually until they float to the surface (about 2-3 minutes). Drain well and add them directly to the sausage and herb mixture.

Step 5: Combine All Ingredients

Return the cooked butternut squash to the skillet along with the gnocchi. Toss everything gently over medium heat to combine and warm through, giving the dish a glossy coating of oil and flavors.

Step 6: Finish with Cheese and Seasoning

Off the heat, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Pro Tips for Making Butternut Squash & Sausage Gnocchi

• Use fresh gnocchi: Fresh or frozen gnocchi works best; avoid dried as it may alter texture.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches if needed so squash and sausage brown nicely rather than steam.
• Choose flavorful sausage: Opt for high-quality Italian sausage for the best depth of flavor.
• Toast your herbs: Lightly crisping fresh sage or rosemary in the pan intensifies their aromatic oils.
• Save some pasta water: If the dish feels too dry, a splash of reserved gnocchi water helps loosen the sauce.

How to Serve Butternut Squash & Sausage Gnocchi

Garnishes

Top your dish with freshly grated Parmesan, a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or walnuts for crunch, and a few more fresh sage leaves for a vibrant pop of green and aroma.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette or roasted seasonal vegetables like Brussels sprouts or cauliflower for balance.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Butternut Squash & Sausage Gnocchi in individual shallow bowls for a cozy, rustic feel or plated elegantly with a drizzle of browned butter and extra fresh herbs for special occasions.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. This dish keeps well for up to 3 days, retaining its flavors and textures when reheated gently.

Freezing

If you want to freeze the Butternut Squash & Sausage Gnocchi, use a freezer-safe container and consume within 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain quality.

Reheating

Gently reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to avoid drying out the gnocchi and squash, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought gnocchi for this recipe?

Absolutely! Store-bought gnocchi works perfectly and saves time, making this recipe even faster without sacrificing taste.

What type of sausage is best for Butternut Squash & Sausage Gnocchi?

Italian pork sausage is ideal because its seasoning complements the sweetness of the squash, but feel free to experiment with spicy or chicken sausage based on your preferences.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, simply swap the sausage for mushrooms, tempeh, or a plant-based sausage alternative for a satisfying vegetarian version.

How do I know when the gnocchi are cooked?

Gnocchi are usually done once they float to the surface of boiling water, which takes just a few minutes.

Can I prepare any components ahead of time?

You can roast the butternut squash and cook the sausage in advance, then reheat and combine with freshly cooked gnocchi when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

This Butternut Squash & Sausage Gnocchi is a total game-changer for anyone who loves simple meals with big flavors. Its easy steps, balanced ingredients, and adaptable nature make it an ideal go-to recipe for cozy dinners all year round. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite comfort food!

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