1. Can I use a different type of sausage for this recipe?

Yes! While this recipe uses spicy Italian sausage, you can easily swap it for sweet or mild Italian sausage if you prefer a less spicy option. For a vegetarian twist, consider using plant-based sausage or roasted vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers for a hearty and flavorful alternative.

2. How do I make butternut squash puree for this dish?

Making butternut squash puree is easy! Simply roast the squash, scoop out the flesh, and blend it until smooth. You can find a detailed tutorial on how to make butternut squash puree on the blog. It’s recommended to prepare the puree ahead of time to save on cooking time.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the creamy butternut squash gnocchi with sausage ahead of time. Prepare the dish and store it in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a bit of cream to restore the sauce’s consistency.

Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage: A Cozy Autumn Delight

Name: Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz Italian sausage (casings removed); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 10 oz potato gnocchi; 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup chicken broth; 1 cup butternut squash puree; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh thyme; Salt and coarsely ground black pepper, to taste

Description

Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage is the perfect autumn comfort food. The rich and creamy sauce, made with butternut squash, heavy cream, and chicken broth, is complemented by savory sausage and fresh herbs like thyme and sage. This easy-to-make dish comes together in just 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or cozy weekend meals.

Ingredients

Scale

12 oz Italian sausage (casings removed)
1 tablespoon olive oil
10 oz potato gnocchi
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup chicken broth
1 cup butternut squash puree
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh thyme
Salt and coarsely ground black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, high-sided skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage (casings removed) and cook for about 4 minutes on one side until browned. Flip and cook for another 2 minutes.
To the skillet, add the uncooked potato gnocchi, heavy cream, and chicken broth. Stir everything together and bring to a boil over medium heat.
Cover with a lid and let the gnocchi cook for about 5 minutes as the sauce boils.
Add the butternut squash puree and minced garlic. Stir well and cook on medium heat until the gnocchi are cooked through and the sauce thickens, about 3 more minutes.
Stir in half of the fresh sage and thyme, then season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Remove from heat, then top with the remaining sage and thyme before serving.

Notes

If you prefer a thicker sauce, allow it to simmer for a few more minutes.
You can adjust the salt depending on how salty the sausage is.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat by adding a little cream or chicken broth to loosen the sauce.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American, Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 674 kcal
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 42g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 20g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 49g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 22g
Cholesterol: 60mg