Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage, Thyme, and Sage
Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage, Thyme, and Sage is the ultimate Autumn comfort food. This one-pan recipe takes only 40 minutes to make! It’s perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or impressive enough to serve at gatherings. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this dish stands out as a seasonal favorite that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This dish takes only 40 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy evenings.
- One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one skillet.
- Rich Flavors: The combination of butternut squash, sausage, and herbs creates a deliciously creamy sauce that tantalizes the taste buds.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect for dinner parties or a comforting family meal, it suits various occasions.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients like butternut squash and fresh herbs, it’s both nutritious and satisfying.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Below are essential items for making Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage, Thyme, and Sage.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large high-sided skillet
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Large high-sided skillet: This allows you to cook all ingredients without spilling, ensuring even heat distribution.
- Sharp knife: A sharp knife makes slicing sausage and chopping herbs quicker and safer.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the perfect balance of flavors.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Essential for stirring without damaging your cookware.
Ingredients
For the Sausage Base
- 12 oz Italian sausage (casings removed)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Gnocchi Mixture
- 10 oz potato gnocchi
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
For the Flavorful Sauce
- 1 cup butternut squash puree
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons fresh sage (chopped)
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme
Seasoning
- Salt and coarsely ground black pepper (to taste)
How to Make Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage, Thyme, and Sage
Step 1: Prepare the Sausage
- Remove sausage from casings and slice it into rounds.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil on medium heat in a large, high-sided skillet.
- Add sliced sausage to the skillet; cook on medium heat for about 4 minutes on one side without turning.
- Flip over to the other side and cook for an additional 2 minutes until both sides are browned.
Step 2: Cook the Gnocchi
- To the same skillet with sausage, add uncooked potato gnocchi, heavy cream, and chicken stock.
- Bring everything to a boil on medium heat while stirring well.
- Cover with a lid and let the gnocchi cook for about 5 minutes on medium heat as the sauce boils.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce
- Add butternut squash puree and minced garlic to the pan with gnocchi and sausage.
- Bring sauce to a boil again on medium heat; then reduce to low-medium heat while stirring well.
- Cook for about 3 more minutes until gnocchi are tender, garlic is cooked to your liking, and sauce thickens.
Step 4: Final Touches
- Stir in half of the fresh sage and half of the fresh thyme into the mixture.
- Season with salt and freshly ground coarse black pepper according to taste.
Step 5: Serve
- When serving, top your dish with the remaining half of fresh sage and thyme for extra flavor.
This Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage, Thyme, and Sage will surely become a go-to dish in your household! Enjoy this delightful meal that’s full of warmth this Autumn season!
How to Serve Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage, Thyme, and Sage
Serving Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage, Thyme, and Sage is a delightful experience that can elevate any meal. This dish not only looks appealing but also offers a comforting taste that pairs well with various accompaniments.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Sage and Thyme: Sprinkle freshly chopped sage and thyme on top for an aromatic finish.
- Parmesan Cheese: Add grated Parmesan cheese for a rich and nutty flavor enhancement.
Pair with a Side Salad
- Mixed Greens: A light salad of mixed greens dressed in vinaigrette complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Caesar Salad: The crunch of romaine and the tangy Caesar dressing provide a nice contrast to the dish.
Serve with Crusty Bread
- Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
- Italian Bread: Simple slices of Italian bread can also enhance the meal experience.
Offer Wine Options
- White Wine: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs well with the flavors of this dish.
- Red Wine: If you prefer red, a light-bodied Chianti complements the sausage beautifully.
How to Perfect Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage, Thyme, and Sage
To make your Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi even better, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure you achieve the best texture and flavor in every bite.
- Flavors: Enhance flavors by adding more fresh herbs or spices during cooking.
- Creaminess Control: Adjust cream quantity based on your desired sauce thickness; add less for a lighter dish.
- Gnocchi Cooking Tip: Make sure not to overcook gnocchi; they should float just right when done.
- Sausage Choice: Experiment with different types of sausage for varied flavor profiles, like spicy or sweet Italian sausage.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage, Thyme, and Sage
Complementing your main dish with side dishes can enhance your overall dining experience. Here are some excellent choices that pair wonderfully with Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi:
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts add a savory crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy texture.
- Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus provides a fresh taste that balances the richness of the gnocchi.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: These creamy potatoes offer comfort and blend seamlessly with the gnocchi’s flavors.
- Autumn Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables like carrots and parsnips brings sweetness and color to your plate.
- Crispy Kale Chips: Crunchy kale chips are an excellent way to introduce some texture while remaining healthy.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a refreshing side that contrasts beautifully with the warm gnocchi.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage, Thyme, and Sage, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Avoid these mistakes to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.
- Using pre-made butternut squash puree: While convenient, it often lacks the freshness and flavor of homemade puree. Opt for fresh squash to enhance your dish.
- Not browning the sausage properly: Failing to brown the sausage can lead to a lack of flavor. Make sure to cook it until it’s nicely browned for the best taste.
- Overlooking the seasoning: It’s easy to forget seasoning in creamy dishes. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
- Skipping the herbs: Fresh thyme and sage add depth and aroma. Don’t skip these ingredients; they are essential for achieving the dish’s signature flavor.
- Ignoring cooking times: Cooking times vary by stove; overcooking gnocchi can make them mushy. Keep an eye on them while they cook.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3–4 days for the best quality.
Freezing Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage, Thyme, and Sage
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Best used within 1–2 months for optimal flavor.
Reheating Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage, Thyme, and Sage
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat for 2–3 minutes or until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a skillet with a splash of cream or broth, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage, Thyme, and Sage that might help you prepare this dish.
Can I use another type of sausage?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with turkey sausage or vegetarian options for a different flavor profile.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or coconut milk as lighter alternatives. However, this will change the texture slightly.
How do I know when the gnocchi is done?
Gnocchi is typically done when they float to the surface. This usually takes about 5 minutes of cooking time.
Is Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi healthy?
While it’s rich and creamy, you can make it healthier by using less cream or substituting with lighter options like Greek yogurt.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Adding spinach or kale can boost nutrition while enhancing flavor.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage, Thyme, and Sage is not just a cozy meal; it’s versatile too! You can customize it by adding more vegetables or using different types of sausage. Try this recipe today for an incredibly satisfying dinner that captures the essence of autumn!
Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage, Thyme, and Sage
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage, Thyme, and Sage is a heartwarming dish perfect for the chilly autumn months. This one-pan recipe combines tender gnocchi with a rich and creamy sauce made from fresh butternut squash puree, savory Italian sausage, and aromatic herbs like thyme and sage. Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests at dinner parties. The flavors meld beautifully, creating a comforting meal that will quickly become a staple in your household.
Ingredients
- 12 oz Italian sausage (casings removed)
- 10 oz potato gnocchi
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 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)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
Instructions
- In a large high-sided skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced sausage and cook until browned on both sides.
- Stir in uncooked gnocchi, heavy cream, and chicken broth; bring to a boil.
- Cover and cook for about 5 minutes until gnocchi are tender.
- Add butternut squash puree and minced garlic; reduce heat and stir until the sauce thickens.
- Mix in half of the fresh herbs; season to taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 350g)
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 66g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 21g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
