Butternut squash gnocchi with sausage is like a warm hug on a plate. Imagine sinking your fork into tender, pillowy gnocchi, perfectly complemented by the savory richness of sausage, all enveloped in a velvety sauce that’s bursting with flavor. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, wrapping around you like an inviting blanket, making you wonder if you’ve just stepped into a cozy Italian bistro rather than your own home. For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.
This dish isn’t just food; it’s a memory-maker. Picture this: a chilly evening, friends gathered around the table, laughter bouncing off the walls as everyone digs in and shares stories. Butternut squash gnocchi with sausage brings people together, turning an ordinary dinner into an unforgettable experience. So grab your apron and get ready for an amazing flavor adventure that will leave you and your guests clamoring for seconds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Butternut squash gnocchi with sausage is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners stress-free.
- The rich flavors meld beautifully together for a comforting meal everyone will love.
- Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing, perfect for impressing guests at any gathering.
- This dish is versatile enough to suit various dietary preferences by swapping out ingredients as needed.
Ingredients for Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Butternut Squash: Look for firm and heavy squash; roasting it brings out its natural sweetness and depth of flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour: This helps create the perfect texture for the gnocchi; using too much can make them dense.
- Egg Yolk: One egg yolk adds richness and binds the ingredients together nicely.
- Sausage: Choose Italian sausage for robust flavor; sweet or spicy varieties work well depending on your preference.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated adds a salty complexity that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
- Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for sautéing the sausage and adding flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and place cut-side down on a baking sheet. Roast for about 30-40 minutes until tender.
Step 2: Prepare the Gnocchi Dough
Once cooled slightly, scoop out the flesh of the roasted squash into a mixing bowl. Add egg yolk and mix well. Gradually incorporate flour until a soft dough forms—dough should be sticky but manageable.
Step 3: Shape the Gnocchi
Flour your countertop generously and divide dough into sections. Roll each section into ropes about one inch thick and cut into bite-sized pieces. Use a fork to create ridges on each piece (this helps hold sauce later).
Step 4: Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Remove sausage from casings and crumble it into the hot pan. Cook until browned and cooked through—around 8-10 minutes—stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Boil Gnocchi
Bring salted water to boil in a large pot. Carefully add gnocchi in batches; they are ready when they float to the surface (about 2-3 minutes). Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to the skillet with sausage.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Gently toss cooked gnocchi with sausage in the skillet, ensuring they’re coated in any leftover juices from cooking. Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over top before serving.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with more olive oil or additional cheese for the perfect finishing touch!
With every bite of butternut squash gnocchi with sausage, you’ll savor not only flavors but also cherished moments shared around your table!
You Must Know
- This delicious butternut squash gnocchi with sausage is not just a meal; it’s an experience!
- With its cozy flavors and comforting warmth, this dish will make your dinner table the place to be.
- Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a quiet night in.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by roasting the butternut squash until it’s tender and caramelized. While that’s happening, brown the sausage in a large skillet. Once both are ready, mix them together with cooked gnocchi and your favorite seasonings for a delightful meal.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the sausage for turkey or even add some sautéed kale for extra greens. Want some spice? Toss in red pepper flakes or your favorite herbs to elevate the flavors. The possibilities are endless!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to revive its creamy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh butternut squash for the best flavor; frozen may not have the same sweetness.
- Ensure that your gnocchi is cooked al dente for a perfect bite.
- Always taste your dish before serving; seasoning can make all the difference!
Sometimes, I whip up this butternut squash gnocchi with sausage when friends are over. Their faces light up at first bite – it’s like I’ve created magic in a bowl!
FAQs
What ingredients do I need for Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage?
To create delicious Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage, you will need a few key ingredients. Start with fresh butternut squash, which provides the base flavor. You’ll also need all-purpose flour, eggs, and salt to make the gnocchi dough. For the sausage, choose Italian sausage for a savory kick. Additionally, consider adding garlic, onion, and herbs like sage or thyme to enhance the overall taste of the dish.
How long does it take to prepare Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage?
Preparing Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage typically takes about 30 minutes for the preparation and around 20 minutes for cooking. The total time from start to finish is approximately 50 minutes. This includes roasting the squash, mixing the dough, and cooking the gnocchi alongside the sausage. It is an enjoyable dish that can be made relatively quickly on a weeknight.
Can I freeze Butternut Squash Gnocchi?
Yes, you can freeze Butternut Squash Gnocchi! After forming the gnocchi, lay them out on a baking sheet in a single layer and place them in the freezer until frozen solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored for up to three months. When you’re ready to cook them, simply boil them directly from frozen without thawing.
What variations can I try with this recipe?
Several variations exist for Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage. You could swap out Italian sausage for turkey sausage or even a plant-based option for a healthier twist. Additionally, consider adding vegetables like spinach or kale for extra nutrients. add an antipasto salad pair it with a kale salad For a different flavor profile, you might incorporate various spices or cheese types to elevate your dish further. try a chicken pasta salad.
Conclusion for Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage
In summary, preparing Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage is both quick and rewarding. With key ingredients like fresh butternut squash and savory sausage, this dish offers rich flavors that are sure to please any palate. Don’t forget that you can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or experimenting with different seasonings. Enjoy making this comforting meal at home!
Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Butternut squash gnocchi with sausage is a cozy and flavorful dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings. This delightful recipe features tender gnocchi made from roasted butternut squash, paired with savory Italian sausage and a sprinkle of fresh Parmesan cheese. Easy to prepare and visually appealing, it’s an excellent choice for impressing guests or enjoying a comforting night in with family.
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 cups cooked)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 egg yolk
- 8 oz Italian sausage (sweet or spicy)
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Halve the butternut squash, scoop out seeds, drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper. Place cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast for 30-40 minutes until tender.
- Scoop out the flesh into a mixing bowl. Add egg yolk and mix well. Gradually add flour until a soft dough forms.
- Generously flour your countertop. Divide dough, roll into ropes about 1 inch thick, and cut into bite-sized pieces. Use a fork to create ridges.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Crumble sausage into the pan and cook until browned (8-10 minutes).
- Bring salted water to boil in a pot. Add gnocchi in batches; they are ready when they float (about 2-3 minutes). Transfer to skillet with sausage.
- Toss gently to combine; sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
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