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 sophistication. It’s surprisingly easy to make and requires minimal effort, yet it yields impressive results that are sure to delight your family and friends. The combination of tender gnocchi, flavorful sausage, and creamy butternut squash sauce creates a dish that is both hearty and elegant. With this recipe, you can enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why This Works

• The balance of flavors and textures in this recipe is a key factor in its success. The sweetness of the butternut squash pairs perfectly with the savory flavor of the sausage, while the gnocchi provides a nice contrast in texture.
• The ease of preparation is another reason why this recipe works so well. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can create a dish that tastes like it came from a high-end restaurant.
• Despite its impressive flavor and presentation, this recipe requires minimal effort and can be prepared in under 30 minutes. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights or special occasions when you want to impress your guests.

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)
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Place the squash on a baking sheet, cut side up, and drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Roast the squash in the oven for about 45 minutes, or until it’s tender and caramelized.
2. Step 2: While the squash is roasting, cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions. Typically, you’ll want to bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the gnocchi for 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface. Reserve 1 cup of the 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 it’s no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the cooked sausage from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set it aside on a plate. Leave the drippings in the skillet.
4. Step 4: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet with the sausage drippings. Add the chopped onion and cook until it’s translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
5. Step 5: Scoop the roasted butternut squash flesh into a blender or food processor with 1/2 cup of chicken broth. Blend the mixture until it’s smooth and creamy. Add the heavy cream, dried sage, salt, and pepper, and blend until well combined.
6. Step 6: Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet with the onion and garlic mixture. Toss the gnocchi to coat it in the skillet mixture, adding some of the reserved pasta water if the mixture seems too thick. Then, add the cooked sausage back into the skillet and toss everything together to combine.
7. Step 7: Pour the butternut squash sauce over the gnocchi and sausage mixture in the skillet. Toss everything together to coat the gnocchi and sausage in the sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the sauce has heated through and the gnocchi are well coated.
8. Step 8: Serve the creamy butternut squash gnocchi with sausage hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Handy Tips

• To ensure that your gnocchi cooks evenly, make sure to not overcrowd the pot. Cook the gnocchi in batches if necessary, and be gentle when stirring to prevent them from breaking apart.
• If you want a creamier sauce, you can add more heavy cream or try adding some grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce. The cheese will melt and add a rich, creamy texture to the sauce.
• Consider using different types of sausage, such as spicy Italian sausage or chorizo, to add more flavor to the dish. You can also add some diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the skillet with the onion and garlic for added flavor and nutrients.

Heat Control

When cooking the sausage, make sure to not overcook it. Cook the sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until it’s no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. If you overcook the sausage, it can become dry and tough. Similarly, when cooking the gnocchi, make sure to not overcook them. Cook the gnocchi for 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface, and then remove them from the water with a slotted spoon.

Crunch Factor

This dish is all about texture and flavor contrast. The tender gnocchi and sausage are balanced by the creamy butternut squash sauce. To add some crunch to the dish, consider topping it with some toasted pine nuts or chopped fresh parsley. You can also add some diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the skillet with the onion and garlic for added texture and flavor.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• To make this recipe more efficient, consider roasting the butternut squash ahead of time and storing it in the fridge for up to a day. Then, simply scoop out the flesh and blend it with the chicken broth and heavy cream when you’re ready to make the sauce.
• Use a high-quality Italian sausage for the best flavor. You can also consider making your own sausage using ground pork and spices.
• Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of gnocchi, such as sweet potato or cauliflower gnocchi, for a unique twist on the recipe.

Storage Tips

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the leftovers in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce seems too thick.
• Consider freezing the cooked gnocchi and sausage mixture for up to 2 months. Simply thaw the mixture in the fridge overnight and reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding the butternut squash sauce just before serving.
• Store any leftover butternut squash sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat the sauce in the microwave or on the stovetop, whisking in a splash of heavy cream if the sauce seems too thick.

Gift Packaging Ideas

This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or holiday meal. Consider packaging the cooked gnocchi and sausage mixture in a decorative jar or container, topped with a layer of butternut squash sauce and some grated Parmesan cheese. You can also add some crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. Simply tie the jar with a ribbon and add a gift tag for a beautiful and delicious gift.

Flavor Variations

• Consider adding some diced ham or bacon to the skillet with the onion and garlic for added smoky flavor.
• Use different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or feta, to add a tangy flavor to the sauce.
• Add some chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, to the sauce for added freshness and flavor.

Troubleshooting

• If the gnocchi are too sticky or fragile, try adding a little more flour to the dough when you’re making the gnocchi. This will help them hold their shape and cook more evenly.
• If the sauce is too thick, try whisking in a splash of chicken broth or cream. If the sauce is too thin, try simmering it for a few minutes to reduce the liquid and thicken the sauce.
• If the sausage is too dry or overcooked, try cooking it for a shorter amount of time or using a different type of sausage that’s more moist and flavorful.

FAQs

• Can I freeze the cooked gnocchi and sausage mixture? Yes, you can freeze the cooked gnocchi and sausage mixture for up to 2 months. Simply thaw the mixture in the fridge overnight and reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding the butternut squash sauce just before serving.
• Is this recipe gluten-free? No, this recipe is not gluten-free because it contains gnocchi, which are typically made with wheat flour. However, you can consider using gluten-free gnocchi or making your own gluten-free gnocchi using a gluten-free flour blend.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe to feed a larger crowd. Simply multiply all of the ingredients by two and cook the gnocchi and sausage mixture in batches if necessary, to prevent overcrowding the pot.

Conclusion

This creamy butternut squash gnocchi with sausage dinner recipe is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday dining. With its rich and creamy sauce, tender gnocchi, and flavorful sausage, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavor combinations to make the recipe your own, and enjoy the process of cooking and sharing a delicious meal with your loved ones.