Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage Dinner Recipe

Introduction

This Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage Dinner Recipe is a perfect blend of comfort food and gourmet flair, using everyday ingredients to create a dish that’s both easy to make and impressive to serve. The combination of soft, pillowy gnocchi, rich butternut squash, and savory sausage, all wrapped in a creamy sauce, makes for a truly satisfying meal. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to delight your taste buds and leave you wanting more.

Why This Works

• The balance of flavors between the sweetness of the butternut squash, the spiciness of the sausage, and the richness of the cream creates a harmonious and engaging taste experience.
• The ease of preparation is a significant advantage, as the dish can be prepared in under an hour, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
• The impressive results with minimal effort are due to the simplicity of the ingredients and the technique, allowing anyone to achieve a restaurant-quality dish at home.

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, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel, de-seed, and chop the butternut squash into 1-inch cubes. Place the squash on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and roast in the oven for about 30-40 minutes, or until tender and lightly caramelized.
2. Step 2: Cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions. Typically, gnocchi are boiled in salted water for 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the gnocchi.
3. Step 3: In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the cooked sausage from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside. Leave the drippings in the skillet.
4. Step 4: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
5. Step 5: Add the roasted butternut squash, chicken broth, and heavy cream to the skillet. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a simmer. Let cook for about 5 minutes, or until the sauce has slightly thickened. Season with dried sage, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Step 6: Add the cooked gnocchi and reserved pasta water to the skillet, tossing everything together until the gnocchi are well coated with the sauce. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and toss to combine.
7. Step 7: Serve the Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Handy Tips

• To ensure the gnocchi do not stick together, make sure to not overcrowd the pot when boiling them, and stir gently when combining them with the sauce.
• For an extra creamy sauce, add more heavy cream or substitute some of the chicken broth with cream.
• Consider using different types of sausage, such as spicy Italian sausage or Chorizo, to change up the flavor profile of the dish.

Heat Control

When cooking the sausage, it’s essential to control the heat to prevent burning. Medium-high heat is ideal for browning the sausage, but be prepared to reduce the heat if the skillet gets too hot. Similarly, when simmering the sauce, a medium-low heat is best to prevent scorching and to allow the flavors to meld together gently.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in this dish comes from the texture of the roasted butternut squash and the slight crispness of the cooked sausage. To enhance the texture, consider adding some toasted pine nuts or chopped fresh herbs on top of the dish before serving.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Use high-quality ingredients, such as fresh sage and real Parmesan cheese, to elevate the flavors of the dish.
• Do not overcook the gnocchi, as they can become mushy and unappetizing. Cook them until they just float to the surface, then reserve and add to the sauce.
• For a shortcut, use pre-cut butternut squash or gnocchi from the grocery store to save on prep time.

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 or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
• Consider freezing the cooked gnocchi and sauce separately for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat together.
• Use glass or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids to store leftovers, and label with the date and contents.

Gift Packaging Ideas

This Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage makes a wonderful gift for friends or family, especially during the fall and winter months. Consider packaging the cooked dish in a decorative ceramic bowl, topped with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Alternatively, package the components separately, such as the roasted squash, cooked sausage, and gnocchi, along with a jar of the creamy sauce, and include a recipe card for the recipient to assemble the dish at home.

Flavor Variations

• Try using different types of winter squash, such as acorn or delicata, for a varied flavor and texture.
• Add some diced apples or dried cranberries to the sauce for a sweet and tangy twist.
• Substitute the Italian sausage with Chorizo or spicy sausage for an extra kick of heat.

Troubleshooting

• If the sauce becomes too thick, add a bit more chicken broth or cream to thin it out.
• If the gnocchi are overcooked, try adding them to the sauce earlier in the cooking process to help them absorb more of the flavors.
• If the dish is too spicy, reduce the amount of sausage or add more cream to balance out the heat.

FAQs

• Can I freeze the assembled dish? Yes, but it’s best to freeze the components separately to preserve texture and flavor.
• Is this dish gluten-free? The gnocchi typically contain gluten, but you can substitute with gluten-free gnocchi if needed.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, simply multiply all the ingredients by two and adjust the cooking time as needed.

Conclusion

This Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage Dinner Recipe is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any time of the year. With its rich and creamy sauce, tender gnocchi, and savory sausage, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavor combinations to make the dish your own, and enjoy the process of cooking and sharing a wonderful meal with friends and family.