Description
This Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage recipe combines the naturally sweet, velvety texture of homemade butternut squash gnocchi with a rich, garlic-infused creamy Parmesan sauce and spicy Italian sausage. The dish offers a perfect balance of comforting creaminess and savory boldness, making it ideal for cozy family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Gnocchi:
- 1 lb butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sausage:
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Prepare the Butternut Squash: Boil the peeled and cubed butternut squash in salted water until very soft and easily mashed, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well and let cool slightly.
- Make the Gnocchi Dough: Mash the cooked butternut squash into a smooth puree. Transfer to a large mixing bowl. Add the egg, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until a soft dough forms, being careful not to overwork it.
- Shape the Gnocchi: On a floured surface, roll the dough into long ropes about 1/2 inch thick. Cut into bite-sized pieces and create ridges on each piece using a fork to help hold the sauce.
- Cook the Gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi in batches; cook until they float to the surface, approximately 2-3 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
- Prepare the Creamy Sauce: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and cook until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook the Sausage Mixture: In a separate skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté finely chopped onion until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it into crumbles. Stir in minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook until sausage is browned and fully cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.
- Combine and Serve: Toss the cooked gnocchi gently in the creamy sauce to coat evenly. Plate the gnocchi and top each serving with the browned sausage mixture. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- Use fresh butternut squash for best flavor and optimal texture in gnocchi.
- Avoid overmixing the gnocchi dough to keep the gnocchi tender and light.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to your preferred level of spiciness.
- Creating ridges on the gnocchi helps the sauce cling better for enhanced flavor.
- Drain the boiled squash thoroughly to avoid soggy gnocchi dough.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: butternut squash gnocchi, creamy sauce, Italian sausage, homemade gnocchi, comfort food, garlic, Parmesan cheese, spicy sausage
