Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage Dinner Recipe

Introduction

This recipe for Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage is a masterclass in comfort food, blending the warmth of sausage, the gentle sweetness of butternut squash, and the indulgence of creamy sauce, all tied together with the pillowy softness of homemade gnocchi. It’s a dish that feels like a hug on a cold evening, yet it’s surprisingly easy to make and requires minimal special ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies in its accessibility and the way it elevates everyday ingredients into something truly special. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newcomer, this dish is sure to impress with its deep, satisfying flavors and the joy of creating something from scratch.

Why This Works

• The balance of flavors between the savory sausage, the sweet butternut squash, and the richness of the cream creates a dish that is both comforting and refined.
• The preparation is straightforward, with each component building on the last to create a cohesive and impressive whole.

Ingredients

• 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
• 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh sage leaves, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth

Instructions

1. Step 1: Prepare the Butternut Squash – Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Place it on a baking sheet, cut side up, and roast for about 45 minutes, or until the flesh is tender. Scoop the flesh out and mash it in a bowl.
2. Step 2: Make the Gnocchi – In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed butternut squash, flour, eggs, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until a dough forms. On a floured surface, knead the dough for about 5 minutes, until it becomes smooth. Divide the dough into 4 pieces and roll each into a long rope. Cut into 1-inch pieces to form the gnocchi.
3. Step 3: Cook the Gnocchi and Sausage – Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the gnocchi for about 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside.
4. Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Sauce – In the same skillet used for the sausage, add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute. Then add the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook until slightly reduced, about 5 minutes. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and season 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. Add the cooked sausage back into the skillet and toss everything together. Serve hot, garnished with chopped sage leaves.

Handy Tips

• For an extra light and airy gnocchi, make sure not to overmix the dough.
• Use high-quality ingredients, like fresh sage and real Parmesan cheese, to elevate the flavors of the dish.
• Consider making the gnocchi ahead of time and freezing them for up to a month for a quick future meal.

Heat Control

When cooking the sausage, make sure the heat is at a medium setting to avoid burning the outside before the inside is fully cooked. For the sauce, a simmer is ideal to reduce the liquid slowly and evenly, preventing it from becoming too thick or sticking to the bottom of the pan.

Crunch Factor

The crunch in this dish comes from the slightly browned sausage and the crispy sage leaves on top. To achieve a nice crunch on the sausage, cook it in a bit of oil over medium-high heat for the first few minutes. For the sage, simply chop fresh leaves and sprinkle them on top of the dish before serving.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Use a potato ricer to mash the butternut squash for a smoother consistency.
• Don’t overcrowd the pot when cooking the gnocchi. Cook them in batches if necessary, to prevent them from sticking together.
• For an extra creamy sauce, add a tablespoon or two of butter at the end and stir until melted and fully incorporated.

Storage Tips

• Cooked gnocchi can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them by dropping them into boiling water for a minute or two until they float.
• The creamy sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to a day. Reheat it gently over low heat, whisking constantly.
• Freeze uncooked gnocchi on a baking sheet and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to a month. Cook frozen gnocchi directly in boiling water without thawing.

Gift Packaging Ideas

While this dish is best served fresh, components of it can be gifted. For example, you can package homemade gnocchi in decorative jars or bags and give them along with a recipe card for the creamy sauce and sausage. Consider adding a few sprigs of fresh sage and a block of Parmesan cheese to the gift for a complete experience.

Flavor Variations

• Try using different types of sausage, like spicy Italian sausage or Chorizo, for a varied flavor profile.
• Add some sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the creamy sauce for added depth and nutrients.
• Swap the heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative for a lighter or dairy-free version.

Troubleshooting

• If your gnocchi are too dense, it might be due to overmixing the dough or using too much flour. Try adding a bit more egg to lighten the mixture.
• If the sauce is too thick, whisk in a bit more chicken broth. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to reduce it.
• Watch the sausage closely while it’s cooking to avoid overcooking, which can make it dry and crumbly.

FAQs

• Can I freeze the cooked gnocchi? Yes, but it’s best to freeze them uncooked. Cooked gnocchi can become mushy when thawed.
• Is this recipe gluten-free? The gnocchi contain wheat flour, so this recipe is not gluten-free. However, you can experiment with gluten-free flours to make a gluten-free version.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, all ingredients can be doubled to serve a larger crowd. Just be sure to cook the gnocchi in batches if necessary, to prevent them from sticking together.

Conclusion

This Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage recipe is a testament to the magic that happens when simple, everyday ingredients come together in a dish that’s greater than the sum of its parts. It’s a recipe that invites experimentation and adaptation, whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and familiar or adventurous and new. So don’t be afraid to get creative, to add your own favorite flavors and twists, and to make this recipe your own. And as you sit down to enjoy the fruits of your labor, remember that the true beauty of cooking lies not just in the eating, but in the sharing, the loving, and the living that happens around the table.