As autumn wraps its cozy blanket around us, the kitchen becomes a sanctuary filled with the warm, inviting aromas of seasonal delights. Picture this: the rich scent of roasting garlic intertwined with the earthy sweetness of butternut squash, all coming together in one delightful dish. That’s exactly what you’ll experience with my Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage, Thyme, and Sage—a dish that not only warms your belly but also fills your heart with comfort.
This recipe has become a staple in my home during the crisp fall evenings when I crave something hearty yet effortless to whip up. In just 40 minutes, you can create a vibrant, one-pan wonder that brings the flavors of autumn to your table. With its creamy texture, spicy Italian sausage, and fragrant herbs, this gnocchi will quickly become a favorite among your family and friends, making weeknight dinners something to look forward to. Let’s dive into the joys of cooking this flavorful dish and evoke the spirit of the season!
Why is Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi a must-try?
Heartwarming Comfort: This dish combines the warmth of creamy butternut squash and the savory notes of sausage, making it an ultimate comfort food for cool autumn nights.
One-Pan Wonder: Enjoy the ease of a delicious meal without the clutter—everything cooks in just one skillet!
Quick and Easy: Whip up this recipe in a mere 40 minutes, perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
Flavor Fusion: The harmony of thyme and sage elevates the dish, creating a fragrant aroma that will draw everyone to the table.
Versatile Options: Customize it! Swap the sausage for turkey, add veggies, or mix in cheese for added richness.
Crowd Pleaser: Impress family and friends with a dish that’s not just tasty, but looks delightful on any table.
Butternut Squash Gnocchi Ingredients
• Perfect for your autumn feast!
For the Gnocchi
- Potato Gnocchi – This offers a soft and chewy texture; no pre-cooking required.
For the Sauce
- Italian Sausage – Provides richness and a spicy kick; choose a mild variety for less heat.
- Heavy Cream – Creates a luscious, creamy base; for lighter options, opt for half-and-half or dairy-free substitutes like coconut milk.
- Chicken Broth – Enhances the sauce’s depth; low-sodium is best for better salt control.
- Butternut Squash Puree – Infuses sweet earthiness; you can use premade or roast and blend fresh squash.
For Seasoning
- Olive Oil – Adds a light flavor while browning the sausage.
- Garlic – Fresh minced garlic is preferred for an aroma boost over garlic powder.
- Fresh Sage and Thyme – These fragrant herbs complement the comforting flavors; dried can be used, but adjust amounts.
- Salt and Coarsely Ground Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust according to the saltiness of the sausage.
How to Make Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi
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Prepare Butternut Squash Puree: If you haven’t made it yet, roast your butternut squash in a preheated oven at 400°F until tender, about 30-35 minutes. Cool slightly and puree until smooth.
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Cook Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil. Add the sliced Italian sausage and cook for about 6 minutes, or until it’s browned and cooked through.
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Combine Ingredients: Toss in the uncooked potato gnocchi, heavy cream, and chicken broth. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Cover with a lid and let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the gnocchi to soften.
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Incorporate Puree and Seasonings: Add your butternut squash puree, fresh minced garlic, chopped sage, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together and let it simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
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Serve: Once it’s ready, serve immediately with a sprinkle of fresh sage and thyme on top for that finishing touch.
Optional: Drizzle with a bit of olive oil for extra richness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi
- Taste Your Dish: Always taste after adding the sausage to adjust the salt. The saltiness can vary based on the type of sausage used.
- Cooling Puree: Ensure butternut squash is completely cooled before pureeing. This guarantees a smooth and creamy texture for your gnocchi.
- Thickening the Sauce: For a thicker sauce, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce excess liquid, enhancing overall flavor.
- Gnocchi Cooking Time: Don’t overlook the gnocchi while cooking; they only need about 5 minutes to soften, so keep an eye on them!
- Herb Adjustments: If using dried herbs instead of fresh, remember their flavor is more concentrated—reduce the amounts by half to avoid overpowering the dish.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage, Thyme, and Sage are perfect for busy weeknights! You can prepare the butternut squash puree up to 3 days in advance; simply roast and puree it, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Additionally, you can brown the sausage and store it separately; it will keep well for 2 days in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve the dish, just combine the sausage, gnocchi, heavy cream, and broth in a skillet, add the pureed squash, and heat everything together for about 10 minutes. This approach not only saves time but ensures your family enjoys a delicious, hearty meal just as comforting as when freshly made!
Storage Tips for Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi
Fridge: Store the gnocchi in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure it is completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: This comforting dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Portion into freezer-safe containers, making sure to leave some space for expansion.
Reheating: Gently reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the sauce’s creamy texture. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
Thawing: For the best texture, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully in your Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi.
Butternut Squash Gnocchi Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize your dish with these delightful twists. Your taste buds will thank you!
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Turkey Swap: Replace Italian sausage with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. It’ll give you a lighter, yet equally delicious meal.
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Veggie Boost: Add sautéed spinach or kale for a burst of color and nutrition. This will elevate the dish with even more wholesome goodness.
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Creamier Delight: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese to enhance richness and flavor; just keep in mind the potential changes to dietary considerations.
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Herb Infusion: Try adding fresh rosemary or basil in place of thyme and sage for a fragrant herbal twist. Each herb brings its unique aroma!
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Spicy Kick: Toss in red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to amp up the heat level. Just a little can transform the entire profile of the dish!
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Whole Grain Twist: Substitute traditional gnocchi for whole grain varieties; it adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber to your meal.
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Nutty Finish: Top with chopped toasted walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.
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Gourmet Touch: Drizzle with truffle oil just before serving for an indulgent flavor upgrade that will impress any gourmet palate!
What to Serve with Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage, Thyme, and Sage?
Enhance your autumn dinner experience by pairing your dish with delightful sides that complement its rich, comforting flavors.
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Crispy Brussels Sprouts: These roasted veggies provide a delightful crunch and earthy flavor that balances the creamy gnocchi. Drizzle with balsamic reduction for an extra zing!
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Garlic Bread: A warm loaf of garlic bread provides a perfect vehicle for that luscious sauce, inviting you to enjoy every creamy bite. Pair it with a sprinkle of Parmesan for added richness.
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Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with tangy vinaigrette brightens the meal, cutting through the richness of the gnocchi. Toss in some nuts for texture and crunch!
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Sautéed Spinach: This tender, garlicky spinach adds a splash of color and nutritional punch. The slight bitterness pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce.
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Honey Roasted Carrots: Sweet, caramelized carrots bring a warm sweetness that echoes the butternut squash, creating a harmonious fusion of flavors.
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Chardonnay: A glass of chilled Chardonnay offers fruity notes and crisp acidity that will cut through the richness of the creamy gnocchi, making each bite refreshing.
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Pumpkin Pie for Dessert: End your meal on a sweet note with a classic pumpkin pie, capturing the essence of fall and providing a festive finish to your dinner.
Create a wholesome and inviting autumn feast that wraps everyone in warm and cozy flavors!
Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage, Thyme, and Sage Recipe FAQs
What kind of butternut squash should I use for the puree?
Absolutely! You can use fresh or premade butternut squash puree. If you choose fresh, opt for a firm squash with a smooth, undamaged skin. Look for deep, rich orange flesh when you cut it open. To make your own, roast diced butternut squash at 400°F until tender, about 30-35 minutes, then blend until smooth.
How long can I store the Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi in the refrigerator?
This comforting dish can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s in an airtight container and cooled completely before sealing. When reheating, do it slowly over low heat to keep it creamy and delicious.
Can I freeze Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi?
Very! This dish freezes beautifully, so you can enjoy it later. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving an inch of space at the top for expansion, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What should I do if my sauce is too thin?
If your sauce isn’t thickening as desired, don’t worry! Let it simmer uncovered for a few additional minutes on low heat, stirring often to prevent sticking. This will help reduce any excess liquid and deepen the flavors. You can also add a bit more butternut squash puree or even a sprinkle of grated cheese to enhance creaminess.
Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
While this recipe is rich and comforting, you can easily adjust it for dietary needs. Substitute the Italian sausage with a lean ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream. Always check for any specific allergies, especially with seasonings and substitutions.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh thyme and sage?
Certainly! If you’re using dried herbs, keep in mind that their flavor is more concentrated. Use about half the amount of dried thyme and sage compared to the fresh versions. This way, you won’t overpower your gnocchi with the herb flavor while still allowing those lovely autumnal notes to shine.
Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage: Your Cozy Fall Feast
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Roast your butternut squash in a preheated oven at 400°F until tender, about 30-35 minutes. Cool slightly and puree until smooth.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil. Add the sliced Italian sausage and cook for about 6 minutes, or until browned and cooked through.
- Toss in the uncooked potato gnocchi, heavy cream, and chicken broth. Stir well and bring to a gentle boil. Cover and let cook for about 5 minutes.
- Add your butternut squash puree, fresh minced garlic, chopped sage, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir and let simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes until thickened.
- Serve immediately with a sprinkle of fresh sage and thyme on top.