Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage Dinner Recipe

Introduction

This Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage dinner recipe is a masterclass in comfort food, combining the soft, pillowy texture of homemade gnocchi with the rich, velvety smoothness of a butternut squash sauce and the savory, slightly spicy flavor of sausage. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal effort for such an impressive and satisfying meal. Using everyday ingredients and a few clever tricks, you can create a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: This recipe strikes a perfect balance between the sweetness of the butternut squash, the savory flavor of the sausage, and the earthiness of the sage, all of which are easily found in most supermarkets.
• Ease of preparation: Despite its impressive appearance and complex flavors, this dish is surprisingly easy to prepare. The gnocchi can be made ahead of time, and the sauce comes together quickly with just a few ingredients.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: The combination of homemade gnocchi, a creamy butternut squash sauce, and crispy sausage makes for a dish that looks and tastes like it came from a high-end restaurant, but requires minimal fuss and effort.

Ingredients

• 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
• 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup semolina flour
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Fresh parsley or sage, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your 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, toss with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast in the oven for about 30-40 minutes, or until the squash is tender and lightly caramelized.
2. Step 2: While the squash is roasting, cook the sausage in a large skillet 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 on a plate. Leave the drippings in the skillet.
3. Step 3: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is translucent and starting to caramelize, about 8-10 minutes. Add the cooked sausage back into the skillet, along with the roasted butternut squash, dried sage, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Step 4: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. To make the gnocchi, combine the cooked, mashed butternut squash, all-purpose flour, semolina flour, Parmesan cheese, and egg in a bowl. Mix until a dough forms. Divide the dough into 4 pieces and roll each into a long rope. Cut into 1-inch pieces to form the gnocchi. Cook the gnocchi in the boiling water for 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface. Remove the gnocchi with a slotted spoon and add to the skillet with the sausage and squash sauce.
5. Step 5: To finish the sauce, stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let cook for a few minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the gnocchi hot, topped with the creamy butternut squash and sausage sauce, and garnished with chopped parsley or sage.

Handy Tips

• For an extra creamy sauce, add a tablespoon or two of grated Parmesan cheese or a spoonful of mascarpone cheese.
• Consider using different types of sausage, such as spicy Italian sausage or Chorizo, for a varied flavor profile.
• To make ahead, cook the gnocchi and sauce separately and store in the refrigerator for up to a day. Reheat the sauce and combine with the gnocchi just before serving.

Heat Control

When cooking the sausage, make sure to break it up into small pieces so it cooks evenly and quickly. If using a thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to ensure the sausage is cooked through. For the sauce, simmer it over low-medium heat to prevent the cream from boiling or separating.

Crunch Factor

To add a satisfying crunch to the dish, consider topping the gnocchi with toasted pine nuts or chopped fresh parsley. You can also crisp up some chopped pancetta or bacon in a skillet and sprinkle it over the top for added texture and flavor.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Use a food mill or ricer to mash the cooked butternut squash for a smoother sauce.
• Don’t overmix the gnocchi dough, as this can make the gnocchi dense and heavy.
• For a shortcut, use store-bought gnocchi or pre-made butternut squash puree to save time on preparation.

Storage Tips

• Leftover gnocchi can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a little cream or butter to revive.
• The butternut squash sauce can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat gently over low heat.
• Consider using glass or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids to store leftovers, as these will help preserve the freshness and flavor of the dish.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you’re looking to gift this recipe, consider packaging the cooked gnocchi and sauce in a decorative jar or container, topped with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a few fresh sage leaves. You could also include a packet of homemade gnocchi dough or a jar of butternut squash sauce for the recipient to enjoy at a later time. Add a ribbon or gift tag with a personal message for a thoughtful touch.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg, cumin, or smoked paprika to the sauce for a unique flavor twist.
• Creative toppings: Top the gnocchi with toasted pumpkin seeds, chopped fresh herbs, or a dollop of creme fraiche for added flavor and texture.
• Ingredient swaps: Substitute the sausage with cooked bacon, ham, or mushrooms for a vegetarian option.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the gnocchi are too dense or heavy, try adding a little more flour or egg to the dough. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a little more cream or broth.
• Ingredient replacements: If you can’t find butternut squash, try using acorn squash or pumpkin as a substitute. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flours in the gnocchi dough.
• Over/undercooking signs: If the gnocchi are overcooked, they will be mushy and fall apart. If the sauce is undercooked, it may be too thin or lacking in flavor. Adjust the cooking time and heat as needed to achieve the perfect texture and flavor.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, the cooked gnocchi and sauce can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat gently over low heat.
• Is it gluten-free? No, this recipe contains gluten in the form of all-purpose flour. However, you can substitute gluten-free flours in the gnocchi dough for a gluten-free option.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, this recipe can be easily doubled or tripled to feed a larger crowd. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time and heat as needed to prevent overcrowding the pot or skillet.

Conclusion

This Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage dinner recipe is a true showstopper, with its vibrant colors, comforting flavors, and satisfying textures. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. So go ahead, get creative, and enjoy the process of cooking up a delicious and memorable meal. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients or flavor combinations to make the recipe your own. And most importantly, have fun and share the joy of cooking with others!