Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage: A Delicious Fall Recipe

Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage: Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and warm your soul! Imagine pillowy soft gnocchi, infused with the sweet, nutty flavor of butternut squash, perfectly complemented by savory Italian sausage and a hint of sage. This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience.

Gnocchi, those delightful little dumplings, have a rich history rooted in Italian peasant cuisine. Originally made with simple ingredients like potatoes and flour, they were a staple, providing sustenance and comfort. Over time, regional variations emerged, incorporating ingredients like ricotta cheese, spinach, and, of course, our star ingredient: butternut squash. The addition of butternut squash not only adds a vibrant color but also a subtle sweetness that elevates the dish to a whole new level.

What makes Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The sweetness of the squash contrasts beautifully with the savory sausage, while the soft gnocchi provides a delightful chewiness. It’s also a surprisingly easy dish to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. People love this dish because it’s comforting, flavorful, and satisfying – a true taste of Italy right in your own kitchen. So, let’s get cooking and create a memorable meal together!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Butternut Squash Gnocchi:
• 2 pounds butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Approximately 2-3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• For the Sausage Sauce:
• 1 pound Italian sausage, sweet or hot, removed from casings
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil, plus more for garnish
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Preparing the Butternut Squash:

1. Roast the Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread the squash in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is very tender and easily pierced with a fork.
2. Puree the Squash: Once the squash is cool enough to handle, transfer it to a food processor or blender. Puree until smooth. You should have about 2 cups of butternut squash puree. If the puree seems watery, you can strain it through a cheesecloth-lined sieve for about 30 minutes to remove excess moisture. This will help prevent the gnocchi from becoming too sticky.

Making the Gnocchi Dough:

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the butternut squash puree, egg, Parmesan cheese, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
2. Add Flour Gradually: Gradually add the flour, 1/2 cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. The amount of flour you need will depend on the moisture content of the squash. You want to form a soft, slightly sticky dough. Be careful not to overwork the dough, as this will make the gnocchi tough.
3. Knead Lightly: Once the dough comes together, lightly knead it on a lightly floured surface for about 1-2 minutes, just until it forms a smooth ball.
4. Rest the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest at room temperature for 30 minutes. This will allow the gluten to relax and make the gnocchi easier to shape.

Shaping the Gnocchi:

1. Divide the Dough: Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces.
2. Roll into Ropes: On a lightly floured surface, roll each piece of dough into a long rope, about 1/2 inch in diameter.
3. Cut into Pieces: Use a sharp knife or dough scraper to cut the ropes into 1-inch pieces.
4. Shape the Gnocchi (Optional): At this point, you can leave the gnocchi as is, or you can shape them using a gnocchi board or the tines of a fork. To shape them, gently roll each piece of gnocchi over the board or fork, pressing lightly to create ridges. This will help the sauce cling to the gnocchi.
5. Dust with Flour: Place the shaped gnocchi on a lightly floured baking sheet to prevent them from sticking.

Cooking the Gnocchi:

1. Boil Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the Gnocchi: Drop the gnocchi into the boiling water in batches. Do not overcrowd the pot.
3. Watch for Floating: The gnocchi are cooked when they float to the surface, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
4. Remove and Drain: Use a slotted spoon to remove the gnocchi from the water and transfer them to a bowl.

Making the Sausage Sauce:

1. Brown the Sausage: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
3. Deglaze with Wine (Optional): If using, pour in the white wine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let the wine reduce slightly, about 2 minutes.
4. Add Tomatoes: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
5. Add Cream (Optional): If using, stir in the heavy cream.
6. Stir in Basil: Stir in the chopped fresh basil.

Combining Gnocchi and Sauce:

1. Add Gnocchi to Sauce: Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet with the sausage sauce. Gently toss to coat.
2. Serve Immediately: Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.

Conclusion:

This Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage recipe isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a warm hug on a plate, a celebration of autumnal flavors, and a surprisingly simple way to impress your family and friends. Seriously, from the creamy sweetness of the butternut squash to the savory kick of the sausage, every bite is an explosion of deliciousness. You absolutely have to try it!

I know, I know, homemade gnocchi can sound intimidating, but trust me, this recipe breaks it down into manageable steps. And the payoff? Oh, the payoff is immense. The pillowy soft gnocchi, infused with the subtle sweetness of butternut squash, are unlike anything you can buy in a store. They practically melt in your mouth! And when combined with the browned sausage, a touch of sage, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese… well, let’s just say you’ll be fighting over the last bite.

But the best part? This recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with different types of sausage. Sweet Italian sausage adds a touch of sweetness, while spicy Italian sausage brings the heat. You could even use chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option. And if you’re vegetarian, simply omit the sausage altogether and add some roasted vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts would also be a fantastic addition!

Serving suggestions? I love to serve this Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. The acidity of the salad helps to cut through the richness of the gnocchi. A crusty loaf of bread is also a must for soaking up all that delicious sauce. And for a truly decadent experience, try topping it with a dollop of ricotta cheese or a drizzle of truffle oil.

For variations, consider adding a splash of cream to the sauce for an even richer flavor. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, try making your own brown butter sage sauce. The nutty aroma of the brown butter pairs perfectly with the butternut squash and sage. You could also add a handful of chopped spinach or kale to the sauce for a boost of nutrients.

This Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage is truly a game-changer. It’s the perfect comfort food for a chilly evening, and it’s sure to become a new family favorite.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on some music, and get cooking! I promise you won’t regret it. And when you do make it, please, please, please share your experience with me! I’d love to hear what you think, what variations you tried, and how much your family loved it. Tag me in your photos on social media, or leave a comment below. I can’t wait to see your culinary creations! I am confident that this Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage will become a staple in your kitchen. Happy cooking!