Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage Dinner Recipe

Introduction

This Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage dinner recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight meals. It combines the comforting warmth of butternut squash gnocchi, the savory taste of sausage, and the richness of a creamy sauce, all made with everyday ingredients that are easily accessible. The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make and requires minimal effort for such an impressive dish. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a favorite, offering a perfect blend of flavor, creativity, and simplicity.

Why This Works

• The balance of flavors in this dish is unparalleled, with the sweetness of the butternut squash, the spiciness of the sausage, and the creaminess of the sauce all coming together in perfect harmony. Plus, the ingredients are readily available in most supermarkets, making it easy to whip up at a moment’s notice.
• Preparation is straightforward and doesn’t require any special cooking techniques, making it accessible to cooks of all skill levels. From chopping the butternut squash to cooking the gnocchi and sausage, every step is simple and efficient.
• Despite its ease of preparation, the end result is nothing short of impressive. The combination of homemade gnocchi, flavorful sausage, and a rich, creamy sauce is sure to wow family and friends, making it perfect for special occasions or just a cozy night in.

Ingredients

• 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup semolina flour
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 large egg
• 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Fresh sage leaves, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Prepare the Butternut Squash – Preheat your 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 drizzle with a little olive oil. Roast in the oven for about 45 minutes, or until the flesh is tender when pierced with a fork. Let it cool, then scoop out the flesh and mash it in a bowl.
2. Step 2: Make the Gnocchi – In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed butternut squash, all-purpose flour, semolina flour, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Mix well until a dough forms. Add the egg and mix until the dough is smooth and pliable. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes elastic. Divide the dough into 4 pieces and roll out each piece into a long rope. Cut the rope into 1-inch pieces to form the gnocchi.
3. Step 3: Cook the Sausage and Prepare the Sauce – In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, 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 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, stirring occasionally.
4. Step 4: Cook the Gnocchi and Combine – Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully add the gnocchi to the boiling water and cook until they float to the surface, about 3-5 minutes. Remove the gnocchi with a slotted spoon and add them to the skillet with the sauce. Add the cooked sausage back into the skillet, stir to combine, and let simmer for a few minutes until the gnocchi are well coated with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Handy Tips

• For an extra creamy sauce, you can add more heavy cream or a spoonful of mascarpone cheese.
• If you find the dough too sticky, add a bit more flour. If it’s too dry, add a little more egg.
• Don’t overcook the gnocchi; they should be tender but still retain a bit of bite.

Heat Control

When cooking the sausage, make sure to break it up well so it cooks evenly. The ideal internal temperature for cooked sausage is 160°F (71°C). For the sauce, a simmer is key – you want to see gentle bubbles coming up to the surface. This helps in reducing the sauce slowly and evenly, ensuring it coats the gnocchi perfectly without becoming too thick.

Crunch Factor

The crunch in this dish comes from the slightly browned sausage and the texture of the gnocchi. To achieve the perfect texture, don’t overmix the gnocchi dough, and cook the gnocchi just until they float. If you want an extra crunch, you can top the dish with toasted pine nuts or chopped fresh parsley.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Use high-quality ingredients, like fresh sage and real Parmesan cheese, to elevate the flavors of your dish.
• Don’t overcrowd the pot when cooking the gnocchi. Cook them in batches if necessary, to ensure they have enough room to cook evenly.
• For a shortcut, you can use store-bought gnocchi, but making them from scratch adds a special touch to the dish.

Storage Tips

• The cooked gnocchi can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them by sautéing in a little butter or oil until warmed through.
• The sauce can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat it gently over low heat, whisking constantly.
• For freezing, it’s best to freeze the gnocchi dough before cooking. Simply divide the dough into portions, wrap each in plastic wrap, and place in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen gnocchi dough will keep for up to 3 months.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you’re gifting this dish, consider packaging the cooked gnocchi and sauce separately. Place the gnocchi in a decorative jar or container and the sauce in a small saucepan or jar. Wrap the jars in a cozy kitchen towel and tie with a ribbon. Include a card with reheating instructions and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top for an extra-special touch.

Flavor Variations

• Try adding different spices to the sausage, like fennel seeds or red pepper flakes, for unique flavor profiles.
• For creative toppings, consider toasted nuts, dried cranberries, or a sprinkle of grated cheese.
• Swap out the heavy cream for a non-dairy alternative, like coconut cream or almond milk, for a vegan version.

Troubleshooting

• If your gnocchi are too dense, it might be due to overmixing the dough. Try to mix the ingredients just until they come together.
• If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it out with a bit more chicken broth. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to reduce it.
• Watch for overcooking the sausage. It should be browned but still juicy. If it’s dry, it might be overcooked.

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? No, due to the use of all-purpose and semolina flour. However, you can experiment with gluten-free flours for a gluten-free version.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, simply double all the ingredients. Keep an eye on the sauce as it simmers, as the cooking time might be slightly longer.

Conclusion

This Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage dinner recipe is a true delight, offering a comforting, flavorful, and impressive meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its balance of sweet, spicy, and creamy elements, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own, whether that’s through different spices, toppings, or ingredient swaps. Share it with family and friends, and enjoy the warmth and joy that comes from sharing a delicious, homemade meal together.