Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage Dinner Recipe

Introduction

This Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage dinner recipe is a creative and delicious way to enjoy a comforting meal using everyday ingredients. The combination of soft gnocchi, flavorful sausage, and creamy butternut squash creates a dish that’s both satisfying and easy to make. With its rich flavors and hearty texture, this recipe is perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare and requires minimal effort, making it a great option for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays.

Why This Works

• The balance of flavors between the sweetness of the butternut squash, the savory taste of the sausage, and the creaminess of the sauce creates a delicious and well-rounded dish.
• The use of accessible ingredients and straightforward instructions makes this recipe easy to follow and prepare, even for those who are new to cooking.
• The impressive presentation and flavors of this dish make it perfect for special occasions or dinner parties, despite requiring minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
• 1 package of gnocchi (about 16 oz)
• 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
• Fresh parsley or sage, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash – Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Place the squash on a baking sheet, cut side up, and drizzle with olive oil. Roast for about 45 minutes, or until the squash is tender and caramelized.
2. Step 2: Cook the Gnocchi – Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the surface. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the gnocchi.
3. Step 3: Cook the Sausage and Onion – In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce – Add the chicken broth, heavy cream, and dried sage to the skillet with the onion and garlic. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until slightly reduced, about 5 minutes. Stir in the roasted butternut squash flesh and cook until heated through. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Step 5: Combine and Serve – Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet with the creamy sauce and toss to combine, adding some reserved pasta water if the sauce seems too thick. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to combine. Serve the gnocchi hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley or sage if desired.

Handy Tips

• To ensure the gnocchi cooks properly, don’t overcrowd the pot, and be gentle when stirring to avoid breaking the gnocchi.
• For an extra creamy sauce, add more heavy cream or try using half-and-half or mascarpone cheese.
• Consider using different types of sausage, such as spicy Italian sausage or Chorizo, for a varied flavor profile.

Heat Control

When cooking the sausage and onion, it’s essential to control the heat to prevent burning. Start with medium-high heat to brown the sausage, then reduce the heat to medium to cook the onion and garlic. When making the creamy sauce, simmer the mixture over medium-low heat to prevent the cream from boiling or separating.

Crunch Factor

To add a crunchy texture to the dish, consider topping the gnocchi with toasted pine nuts or chopped fresh parsley. You can also add some crispy prosciutto or pancetta on top for a satisfying crunch. For an extra crunchy element, sauté some chopped bell peppers or zucchini with the onion and garlic.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• To peel the butternut squash more easily, microwave it for 2-3 minutes to soften the skin, then let it cool before peeling.
• Use a food mill or blender to puree the roasted butternut squash for a smoother sauce.
• Reserve some of the pasta water before draining the gnocchi to adjust the sauce’s consistency later.

Storage Tips

• Store leftover gnocchi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the gnocchi in the creamy sauce over low heat, adding more cream or pasta water if needed.
• Freeze the roasted butternut squash flesh for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat it when making the creamy sauce.
• Keep the cooked sausage in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it in the skillet with the onion and garlic before combining with the gnocchi and sauce.

Gift Packaging Ideas

For a thoughtful gift, package the cooked gnocchi, creamy sauce, and cooked sausage in separate airtight containers. Include a jar of grated Parmesan cheese, a bag of chopped fresh parsley, and a bottle of olive oil. Wrap the containers in a decorative basket or bag with a recipe card and a personalized note.

Flavor Variations

• Try using different types of winter squash, such as acorn or delicata, for a varied flavor and texture.
• Add some heat to the dish by using spicy Italian sausage or adding red pepper flakes to the creamy sauce.
• Swap the heavy cream with half-and-half or mascarpone cheese for an even richer and creamier sauce.

Troubleshooting

• If the gnocchi is overcooked, it may become mushy or fall apart. To avoid this, cook the gnocchi until it floats to the surface, then remove it from the water immediately.
• If the creamy sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water or more heavy cream to adjust the consistency.
• If the sausage is overcooked, it may become dry or tough. To avoid this, cook the sausage until it’s browned and cooked through, then remove it from the heat.

FAQs

• Can I freeze the cooked gnocchi? Yes, you can freeze the cooked gnocchi for up to 2 months. Simply thaw and reheat it in the creamy sauce when needed.
• Is this recipe gluten-free? The gnocchi typically contains gluten, but you can find gluten-free alternatives or make your own gluten-free gnocchi using gluten-free flours.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe to serve a larger crowd. Simply multiply the ingredients and adjust the cooking time as needed.

Conclusion

This Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage dinner recipe is a delicious and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors, hearty texture, and easy preparation, it’s a great option for busy weeknights or special occasions. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavor variations to make the recipe your own. Share your creations with friends and family, and enjoy the comfort and joy of a homemade meal.