Name: Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Italian Sausage
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 pounds Italian sausage (removed from the casings); 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 large yellow onion (diced); 0.5 - 1 teaspoon kosher salt (to taste); 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional and to taste); 12-14 cloves garlic (minced); 2 tablespoons fresh sage (chopped); 1 tablespoon fresh thyme; 16 ounces gnocchi; 16 ounces Zoup! Butternut Squash Soup (1 jar); 0.75 cup water; 0.75 cup heavy cream; 4 ounces parmesan (freshly grated); 8 ounces spinach (chopped); 0.5 teaspoon black pepper (to taste)

Introduction to Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi

When it comes to satisfying your cravings, nothing beats the warmth and comfort of homemade food. With our Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Italian Sausage, you have a chance to tantalize your taste buds without the long wait times or questionable ingredients often found in fast food. Cooking at home not only gives you control over what you eat, but it also lets you explore your culinary creativity, all while saving you some bucks. Plus, there's something wonderfully comforting about a home-cooked meal, especially one that fills your kitchen with delightful aromas.

But why stop at just any meal? This gnocchi recipe is a perfect blend of rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, making it easy to impress even the pickiest of eaters. By choosing fresh ingredients and a few pantry staples, you can create something that not only nourishes but also embodies the richness of Italian-American fusion cuisine. As you whip up this one-pan masterpiece in under 30 minutes, you’ll feel like a gourmet chef right in your home.

So, let’s dive into the details and elevate your weeknight dinner with this stunningly simple yet flavorful dish!

Ingredients for Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Essential ingredients for the dish

To create your Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Italian Sausage, you'll need a delightful mix of ingredients:

1 tablespoon olive oil
2 pounds Italian sausage, removed from casings
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 large yellow onion, diced
Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
12-14 cloves of minced garlic
Fresh sage and thyme for that herbal kick
16 ounces of gnocchi and butternut squash soup
¾ cup heavy cream
4 ounces of freshly grated parmesan
8 ounces of chopped spinach

These ingredients come together to form a rich, creamy dish that's sure to impress.

Optional ingredients for flavor enhancement

If you're looking to elevate your Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi experience even further, consider adding:

A pinch of red pepper flakes for heat
A splash of vegetable broth instead of water for extra depth
A squeeze of lemon juice to brighten flavors

These optional ingredients allow you to customize your dish to suit your taste. Let your creativity shine, and enjoy the cooking process! If you'd like to learn more about the benefits of butternut squash, check out this article from Healthline.

Preparing Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Craving a delicious meal but short on time? This Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Italian Sausage not only hits the taste buds but also ticks the box for quick and easy weeknight dinners. Here’s how to prepare this delightful dish step by step.

Gather your ingredients and equipment

Before you dive in, make sure you have everything ready to go. Here’s a quick checklist:

Ingredients:
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 pounds Italian sausage (remove from the casings)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 large yellow onion (diced)
16 ounces gnocchi
16 ounces Zoup! Butternut Squash Soup
¾ cup water
¾ cup heavy cream
4 ounces fresh parmesan (grated)
8 ounces spinach (chopped)
Fresh herbs: sage (2 tablespoons), thyme (1 tablespoon)
Garlic (12-14 cloves minced)
Red pepper flakes and black pepper to taste
Kosher salt to taste
Equipment:
A large skillet

With everything in place, you’re ready to get cooking!

Cook the Italian sausage

Start by preheating your skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil, followed by the Italian sausage. Cook until it’s browned and fully cooked through, which should take about 6-8 minutes. Once done, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside; this will enhance the texture and flavor profiles of your dish.

Sauté the aromatics

Keep the skillet on medium-low heat and add the butter to the flavorful drippings left behind. Toss in the diced onion and a pinch of kosher salt, cooking until softened and translucent (about 4-5 minutes). Add the minced garlic, sage, thyme, and optional red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. Sauté until the garlic is fragrant, roughly 30 seconds to a minute—your kitchen should smell heavenly by now!

Cook the gnocchi to perfection

Now it’s time for the gnocchi. Directly in the same skillet, toss in the gnocchi and stir well to coat in the aromatic mixture. Immediately pour in the butternut squash soup, heavy cream, and water. Bring this delightful concoction to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally, and cook until the gnocchi are soft.

Combine everything in the skillet

Once the gnocchi is pillowy soft, fold in the grated parmesan and chopped spinach. Stir until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts into a creamy, dreamy sauce. Finally, reintroduce the cooked Italian sausage and adjust the seasonings to your taste.

Serve and enjoy!

Your Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi is ready to be served! Garnish with extra parmesan if desired. This dish makes for a fantastic dinner that feels like a hug on a plate. Don't forget to store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days—if there are any leftovers, that is!

Consider pairing this with a light salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. Enjoy every bite!

Variations on Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Vegan Version with Plant-Based Sausage

For those adopting a plant-based lifestyle, you can easily tweak this dish to create a delicious vegan version. Simply replace the Italian sausage with your favorite plant-based sausage. Brands like Beyond Meat or Field Roast work beautifully in this dish. Pair it with coconut milk instead of heavy cream for that creamy texture without the dairy.

Addition of Seasonal Vegetables

To elevate your Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi, consider incorporating seasonal vegetables such as kale, Brussels sprouts, or even roasted red peppers. These not only add vibrant color but also enhance flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them along with the onions for a few extra minutes—simple as that! Enjoy experimenting and make this dish your own.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Tips for Perfecting the Sauce

To create a lusciously creamy sauce for your Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi, consider adding a splash of vegetable broth instead of water for deeper flavor. Don't hesitate to adjust the seasoning; tasting as you go is key! If you're a fan of heat, a few extra red pepper flakes will elevate the dish beautifully.

Notes on Gnocchi Cooking Time

Cooking time can vary depending on the brand of gnocchi you choose. It usually takes about 3-4 minutes once added to the sauce, but always refer to your package’s recommendations. The gnocchi should be pillowy soft when done. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking; nobody wants mushy dumplings!

Serving suggestions for Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Ideal pairings and sides

When serving your Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Italian Sausage, think about complementary flavors and textures. A light arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette can bring a fresh burst to balance the richness of the dish. For heartier options, crusty garlic bread or a side of roasted Brussels sprouts can add satisfying crunch. If you're looking for a rewarding drink, a sparkling apple cider or herbal tea pairs beautifully and enhances the meal without overpowering.

Creative garnish ideas

Elevate your Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi presentation with creative garnishes. A sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan adds a nice touch. Consider drizzling some balsamic reduction for a sweet, tangy contrast, or tossing on a few toasted pumpkin seeds for some crunch. For a touch of brightness, finely chop some fresh herbs like sage or parsley and sprinkle them just before serving. These small details can transform your dish from simple to stunning!

Time breakdown for Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Preparation time

In just 10 minutes, you can have everything prepped and ready to go. Dice your onion, mince the garlic, and gather your ingredients to streamline your cooking process!

Cooking time

The cooking time is approximately 20 minutes, making this dish a quick and hassle-free option for a weeknight dinner.

Total time

All in all, you’ll only need 30 minutes from start to finish for this Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi. Perfect for those busy nights when you need something satisfying but don’t have all evening to cook!

This recipe is not only quick but also packs a flavorful punch, thanks to the Italian sausage and savory spices. If you’re as excited as we are, let’s dive into the full recipe!

Nutritional Facts for Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi

When you're digging into a bowl of our Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Italian Sausage, understanding its nutritional value can help you enjoy it guilt-free. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Calories

With a hearty serving clocking in at about 771 calories, this dish delivers satisfying comfort without compromising on flavor.

Protein

Packed with delicious Italian sausage, each serving offers approximately 35 grams of protein, making it a fulfilling option for your meal.

Carbohydrates

The gnocchi adds a comforting touch with around 85 grams of carbohydrates, fueling your day while keeping the indulgence alive.

Lighten your meal prep with these insights, and enjoy tasty bites of this Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi without hesitation! To dive deeper into healthy eating habits, check out Healthline for more expert advice.

FAQs about Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! To enjoy a gluten-free version of Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi, simply opt for gluten-free gnocchi. Many brands are now available, often made from potatoes or alternative flours. Just be sure to check the packaging for any unwanted additives. This way, everyone can savor the deliciousness without gluten!

How do I store leftovers properly?

Leftover Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. To maintain the creamy texture, you might want to reheat it gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to help loosen the sauce. This not only enhances the flavor but also revives the dish beautifully!

What to do if I can’t find gnocchi?

If gnocchi isn't available, don't fret! You can substitute it with other pasta types like small shells or even zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a low-carb alternative. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different pasta will have varying cooking times. With a little creativity, your Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi experience can still be delightful!

Conclusion on Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Incorporating Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Italian Sausage into your weekly dinner rotation could be a game changer. This dish is not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor and comfort. Remember, good food doesn’t have to be complicated—enjoy this deliciously simple recipe!