This creamy butternut squash gnocchi with sausage is a cozy dish that warms you right up! The sweet squash mixes perfectly with savory sausage and soft, pillowy gnocchi.
Making this is like a warm hug on a plate! I love how the flavors blend together, and it’s super easy to whip up for a weeknight dinner. Who wouldn’t love this comfy bowl of deliciousness? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butternut Squash Gnocchi: This is the star of the dish! You can use store-bought gnocchi for convenience, or make your own if you’re up for it. If butternut squash is hard to find, you can substitute with sweet potato gnocchi for a similar flavor.
Italian Sausage: I love using Italian sausage for its flavor. You can go for mild or spicy, depending on your taste. If you prefer a lighter option, turkey sausage works well too. For a vegetarian twist, try crumbled tempeh or a meat substitute!
Heavy Cream: Cream adds richness to the sauce. If you’re looking for a healthier option, half-and-half or coconut cream offers a lighter touch. Do note that coconut cream will give a different flavor, but it can be delicious!
Sage and Thyme: Fresh herbs bring out the best flavors in this dish. If you don’t have fresh herbs, use 1/3 the amount of dried herbs. I always find that fresh makes a lovely difference!
How Do I Get the Gnocchi Golden Brown?
Getting that golden brown color on your gnocchi can be tricky. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure the skillet is hot enough before adding the gnocchi – this helps them sear quickly.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! If you have too many, they’ll steam instead of brown.
- Stir occasionally to ensure all sides get a little time on the heat.
- Cooking for about 4-5 minutes should give you a nice crispness!
By doing this, you’ll add a lovely texture to the dish, enhancing the overall experience!
Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) butternut squash gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- 12 oz (340g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed and crumbled
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion or shallots
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1 tbsp fresh sage leaves, plus more for garnish
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves, plus more for garnish
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking, giving you a total of around 35 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that feels special!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Sausage:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once hot, toss in the crumbled sausage. Cook until browned and thoroughly cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside while leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the butter. Once it’s melted, add the chopped onion or shallots. Cook until softened and translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This will create a flavorful base for your dish!
3. Add Garlic and Herbs:
Stir in the minced garlic, fresh sage, and thyme. Sauté for about 30 seconds until everything is fragrant – you’ll love the aroma!
4. Cook the Gnocchi:
Next, add the butternut squash gnocchi. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 4-5 minutes until they start to turn golden brown on the outside. This gives them a lovely texture!
5. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, and stir everything to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 3-5 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken. This creamy goodness will cover the gnocchi beautifully!
6. Combine and Season:
Now, add the cooked sausage back to the skillet along with the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir well until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Taste and adjust for seasoning!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with extra fresh sage, thyme leaves, and a sprinkle more of Parmesan cheese for that extra touch! Just look at how inviting it looks!
8. Dig In!
Serve immediately, spooning the creamy gnocchi and sausage into bowls. Enjoy every comforting bite of this luscious dish!
Wishing you cozy evenings filled with this savory goodness! Enjoy! 😊
Can I Use Frozen Gnocchi for This Recipe?
Yes, you can absolutely use frozen gnocchi! Just make sure to follow the package instructions for cooking times. Add them straight to the skillet without thawing for a quick and easy meal!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cornstarch to thicken it slightly. For a dairy-free option, coconut cream or almond milk can work nicely, though they will alter the flavor a bit.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply replace the Italian sausage with your favorite meat substitute, like crumbled tempeh or a plant-based sausage. You can also add in extra veggies like spinach or mushrooms to enhance the dish!
