Butternut Squash & Sausage Gnocchi
If you’re craving a dish that combines rich, comforting flavors with easy, weeknight preparation, Butternut Squash & Sausage Gnocchi might just become your new favorite go-to. This recipe brings together fluffy gnocchi, perfectly roasted and sweet butternut squash, and savory sausage for a hearty meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this dish is as satisfying as it is straightforward to make.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor harmony: Butternut squash adds a natural sweetness that balances the spicy, savory sausage perfectly.
- Quick and easy: You can have this meal on the table in under 30 minutes with minimal effort.
- Seasonal delight: It features comforting fall flavors but tastes amazing all year round.
- One-pan magic: This recipe keeps things simple by using a single skillet, cutting down cleanup time.
- Versatile and customizable: It’s a flexible dish that welcomes swaps and upgrades to suit your taste or dietary needs.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The simplicity of Butternut Squash & Sausage Gnocchi lies in how a handful of quality ingredients come together to create vibrant textures and flavors. Every component plays a key role, whether it’s for taste, color, or that satisfying bite.
- Gnocchi: Use store-bought or homemade for soft, pillowy dumplings that soak up all the delicious sauces.
- Butternut squash: Provides a sweet and creamy contrast that pairs beautifully with the sausage.
- Sausage: Choose Italian sausage for aromatic spices, or try chicken sausage for a lighter option.
- Garlic and onions: Aromatics add depth and a rich foundation to the dish.
- Olive oil: For sautéing and enhancing flavors with a smooth, fruity note.
- Fresh sage or rosemary: Herbs give an earthy fragrance that complements the autumnal vibe.
- Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty finish that rounds out every bite.
- Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings to bring out the natural flavors of each ingredient.
Variations for Butternut Squash & Sausage Gnocchi
Feel free to make this dish your own by swapping or adding ingredients—it’s very forgiving and perfect for adapting to what you have on hand or prefer in your diet.
- Vegetarian twist: Replace sausage with sautéed mushrooms or plant-based sausage for a meat-free version.
- Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or swap mild sausage for spicy varieties to turn up the heat.
- Dairy-free option: Skip the parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese alternative without sacrificing flavor.
- Greens boost: Stir in baby spinach or kale at the end for extra nutrients and a pop of color.
- Nutty topping: Toasted pine nuts or walnuts bring satisfying crunch and richness.
How to Make Butternut Squash & Sausage Gnocchi
Step 1: Prepare the Butternut Squash
Peel, seed, and dice the butternut squash into bite-sized cubes. Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast in the oven until tender and slightly caramelized, about 20 minutes at 425°F (220°C).
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
While the squash roasts, heat a skillet over medium heat and crumble the sausage, cooking until browned and cooked through. Remove excess fat if necessary.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
In the same skillet, add a splash of olive oil and sauté finely chopped onions and minced garlic until soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 4: Cook the Gnocchi
Add the gnocchi to the skillet and cook over medium heat, occasionally stirring, until they puff up and develop a light golden crust, roughly 3-5 minutes.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
Return the roasted butternut squash and sausage to the skillet. Toss gently to combine, add fresh sage or rosemary, and season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Finish with a generous sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese just before serving.
Pro Tips for Making Butternut Squash & Sausage Gnocchi
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: When cooking gnocchi, give them space so they brown nicely instead of steaming.
- Prep ahead: Roast butternut squash in advance to save time on busy days.
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh sage or rosemary dramatically elevate the flavor profile.
- Check your sausage: Remove casings if you want crumblier sausage or slice for chunky bites.
- Add a splash of broth: If the dish seems dry, a little chicken or vegetable broth helps bring it all together smoothly.
How to Serve Butternut Squash & Sausage Gnocchi
Garnishes
Top with freshly grated parmesan cheese, a drizzle of good-quality olive oil, and sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or fresh herb leaves for that final gourmet touch.
Side Dishes
Pair this dish with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or some garlic-roasted broccoli for a balanced and satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve individual portions in shallow bowls to showcase the colors and textures, and consider adding a swirl of browned butter or sage-infused oil on top for extra flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making sure it cools completely before sealing to preserve freshness.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, but it’s best to freeze the butternut squash and sausage separately from the gnocchi for optimal texture; reheat gently to avoid mushiness.
Reheating
Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat with a splash of broth or olive oil to prevent sticking and revive the flavors, stirring often until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I use fresh gnocchi or only store-bought?
You can absolutely use fresh homemade gnocchi if you prefer, which will bring a wonderful soft texture, but store-bought works just as well and saves time.
What type of sausage works best for this recipe?
Italian sausage with fennel and garlic is a classic choice, but feel free to swap for chicken sausage or any variety you enjoy.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Traditional gnocchi contains gluten, but you can find gluten-free gnocchi options or make your own using gluten-free flour to keep the dish safe for gluten-sensitive eaters.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Replace the sausage with plant-based crumbles, skip the parmesan or use a vegan cheese substitute, and use olive oil instead of butter to make it fully vegan.
How spicy is this dish?
The heat level depends on the sausage you choose—mild sausage makes it mild, but you can easily add chili flakes or hot sausage for a spicier kick.
Final Thoughts
Butternut Squash & Sausage Gnocchi is one of those dishes that feels both luxurious and homey, perfect for bringing comfort to your table without hours in the kitchen. With its beautiful blend of sweet, savory, and herbaceous flavors, this recipe invites you to savor every bite. Give it a try soon—you won’t regret having this cozy, crowd-pleaser in your recipe box.
