Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage Dinner Recipe

Introduction

This Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage dinner recipe is a perfect blend of fall flavors, ease of preparation, and creativity, all coming together with everyday ingredients. As the seasons change and the weather cools down, our taste buds often crave warmer, more comforting dishes. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of butternut squash with the savory flavor of sausage, all wrapped up in a creamy sauce and served with soft, pillowy gnocchi. It’s a dish that’s both impressive and approachable, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The best part? It’s made with ingredients you might already have on hand, and it’s easier to prepare than you might think.

Why This Works

• The balance of flavors between the sweetness of the butternut squash, the savory taste of the sausage, and the richness of the cream creates a dish that’s both satisfying and delicious.
• The ease of preparation is a significant advantage. By using pre-made gnocchi and simplifying the sauce, this recipe can be ready in about 30 minutes, making it a great option for busy evenings.
• Despite its simplicity, the dish presents impressively. The vibrant color of the butternut squash and the creamy sauce make for a visually appealing meal that’s sure to impress family and friends.

Ingredients

• 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
• 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, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash – Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the squash is tender and lightly caramelized.
2. Step 2: Cook the Gnocchi – Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions until they float to the surface. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the gnocchi.
3. Step 3: Prepare the Sausage and Sauce – In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the cooked sausage from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then add the chopped onion and cook until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add the roasted butternut squash, chicken broth, heavy cream, and dried sage to the skillet. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for a few minutes until the sauce has slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Step 4: Combine and Serve – Add the cooked gnocchi and sausage back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together, adding some of the reserved pasta water if the sauce seems too thick. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Handy Tips

• For an extra creamy sauce, you can add more heavy cream or try using half-and-half or mascarpone cheese.
• If butternut squash is not in season, you can substitute it with other types of squash or even sweet potatoes.
• Consider using different types of sausage, like spicy Italian sausage for an extra kick or chorizo for a smoky flavor.

Heat Control

When cooking the sausage, make sure to break it up well so it cooks evenly. If using a thermometer, the internal temperature of the sausage should reach 160°F (71°C). For the sauce, simmer it over medium heat, adjusting as necessary to prevent boiling over. The ideal temperature for simmering the sauce is between 180°F and 190°F (82°C to 88°C).

Crunch Factor

The crunch in this dish comes from the slightly caramelized butternut squash and the cooked sausage. To achieve a nice texture, make sure not to overcook the squash or the gnocchi. The gnocchi should be cooked until it floats, and the squash should be tender but still retain some firmness.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• To prevent the gnocchi from sticking together, toss them with a little olive oil after draining.
• For a shortcut, use pre-cooked sausage or roasted squash if available.
• Cleanup hack: Prepare all ingredients before starting to cook to make the process smoother and less messy.

Storage Tips

• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a bit more cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
• The roasted butternut squash can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to a day or frozen for up to 2 months.
• It’s best to cook gnocchi fresh, but you can also store uncooked gnocchi in the fridge for a day or freeze them for later use.

Gift Packaging Ideas

This recipe is more suited for immediate consumption rather than gifting, due to its perishable ingredients. However, components like the roasted butternut squash or the sausage could be packaged in decorative jars or containers and given as part of a gift basket, especially during the fall season.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon to the sauce for an extra depth of flavor.
• Creative toppings: In addition to Parmesan cheese and parsley, consider topping your gnocchi with toasted pine nuts, crispy sage leaves, or a drizzle of truffle oil.
• Ingredient swaps: Substitute the sausage with bacon or pancetta for a smokier flavor, or use different types of winter squash like acorn or delicata.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a bit more chicken broth or cream. If the gnocchi is too sticky, toss it with more olive oil.
• Ingredient replacements: If you can’t find butternut squash, use other squash varieties. For sausage, you can substitute with ground beef or pork, though the flavor will be different.
• Over/undercooking signs: Check the gnocchi frequently while it’s cooking to avoid overcooking. The sausage should be cooked until it’s no longer pink, and the squash should be tender when pierced with a fork.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the cooked gnocchi and sauce separately for up to 2 months. Reheat the sauce over low heat, and cook the frozen gnocchi in boiling water until they float.
• Is it gluten-free? This recipe can be adapted to be gluten-free by using gluten-free gnocchi and being mindful of the ingredients in the sausage and broth.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or triple this recipe for larger gatherings. Just be sure to use a larger skillet and adjust the cooking time as needed.

Conclusion

This Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage dinner recipe is a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for the fall and winter seasons. With its balance of sweet, savory, and creamy flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and spices to make the recipe your own. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or for a crowd, this dish is sure to impress. So go ahead, get creative, and enjoy the cozy warmth of a delicious homemade meal.