This creamy butternut squash gnocchi with sausage is pure comfort food! The soft gnocchi pairs perfectly with the savory sausage and smooth sauce.
I love how quick this dish comes together. It’s like a warm hug on a plate, and I can’t resist seconds! Trust me, you’ll be going back for more too. 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butternut Squash Gnocchi: This is the star of the dish. You can find it fresh or frozen in most grocery stores. If you can’t find it, consider using regular potato gnocchi as a substitute.
Italian Sausage: Use mild or spicy, depending on your taste. For a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken sausage works well here too.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, substitute with half-and-half or even coconut cream for a dairy-free option. Keep in mind, the texture and flavor may slightly vary.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parm is best for flavor and meltability. If you’re in a pinch, Pecorino Romano can work, or skip altogether for a dairy-free dish.
How Do I Get the Sausage Just Right?
Cooking the sausage is crucial for layering flavor in this recipe. Here’s how to get it perfect:
- Heat the skillet over medium heat and crumble the sausage as it cooks.
- Cook until it’s nicely browned, about 5-7 minutes; this caramelization adds great taste.
- Make sure to drain excess fat if there’s too much at the end to keep the dish from getting greasy!
What’s the Best Way to Cook the Gnocchi?
Cooking gnocchi directly in the skillet saves time and dishes! Here’s how to get it right:
- If using fresh gnocchi, just sauté it until they’re golden and tender, about 3-4 minutes.
- For frozen, follow package instructions. Usually, it cooks in a similar fashion but may need a bit longer.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the pan, as this can lead to steaming instead of browning.
Enjoy creating this cozy dish! You’ll love the balance of flavors and the hearty goodness.
Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 package (about 16 oz) butternut squash gnocchi (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh thyme sprigs
- Fresh parsley or thyme, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total: 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking. In no time, you’ll have a delicious, creamy dish on your table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Sausage:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the Italian sausage. Using a wooden spoon, break the sausage apart as it cooks. Keep cooking until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté until it becomes translucent, which takes about 3 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
3. Cook the Gnocchi:
Next, add the butternut squash gnocchi to the skillet. If you’re using frozen gnocchi, just sautĂ© them according to the package instructions until they’re tender and slightly crispy on the outside—this usually takes a few minutes.
4. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Once the gnocchi is ready, reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir gently to ensure all the gnocchi are coated with the cream.
5. Combine and Thicken:
Now reintroduce the cooked sausage back into the skillet. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and the nutmeg if you’re using it. Cook on low, stirring frequently for about 3-5 minutes, until the sauce thickens and beautifully coats the gnocchi.
6. Final Seasoning:
Season everything with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a final stir to combine all the flavors.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, garnish your dish with fresh thyme sprigs and a sprinkle of chopped parsley or thyme for a burst of color and flavor. Enjoy your comforting creamy butternut squash gnocchi with savory sausage!
Can I Use a Different Type of Gnocchi?
Yes, you can! If butternut squash gnocchi isn’t available, regular potato gnocchi works just as well. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce if needed.
Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative, such as coconut milk or a nut-based cream. Use a dairy-free cheese for the Parmesan, or simply omit it for a lighter dish.
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This creamy butternut squash gnocchi goes great with a simple side salad or some roasted vegetables. For a heartier meal, serve it with garlic bread or a crusty baguette to soak up the sauce!
