Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage

Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage is a delightful autumn-inspired dish that combines the comforting textures of gnocchi with the rich flavors of butternut squash and Italian sausage. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner and is sure to impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

1 lb gnocchi
1 lb Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled
2 cups butternut squash, pureed
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet, sauté the minced garlic over medium heat for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the crumbled sausage and butternut squash puree to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese, cooking until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
5. Toss the cooked gnocchi in the sauce, ensuring they are evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves approximately 4 people. The prep time is about 10 minutes, with a cooking time of 15 minutes, resulting in a total time of around 25 minutes.

Variations

• Add Greens: Incorporate spinach or kale for added color and nutrition.
• Use Different Sausage: Swap out Italian sausage for chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option.
• Make it Vegan: Use plant-based sausage, coconut cream, and nutritional yeast in place of heavy cream and Parmesan.
• Spice it Up: Add red pepper flakes for a little heat.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if the sauce has thickened.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use fresh gnocchi?
   Yes, fresh gnocchi works wonderfully in this recipe.
2. What if I can’t find butternut squash puree?
   You can make your own by roasting and blending butternut squash or use canned pumpkin as a substitute.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and combine it with the gnocchi just before serving.
4. How do I know when the sauce is thick enough?
   The sauce should coat the back of a spoon and be creamy, not runny.
5. Can I freeze this dish?
   It’s best to freeze the sauce separately from the gnocchi, as the texture may change upon reheating.
6. Is this dish gluten-free?
   Use gluten-free gnocchi to make the dish gluten-free.
7. What can I serve with this dish?
   A side salad or garlic bread complements this dish nicely.
8. Can I use a different cheese?
   Yes, mozzarella or feta can be used as alternatives to Parmesan.
9. What should I do if the sauce is too thick?
   Add a splash of chicken broth or water to thin it out.
10. Is this dish suitable for kids?
    Yes, the creamy sauce and flavors are usually a hit with children.

Conclusion

Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage is a comforting, flavorful dish that brings the taste of fall to your table. Quick to prepare and packed with flavor, it’s an excellent option for busy weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy this creamy, satisfying meal that warms the heart and pleases the palate!

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