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 delightful dish not only brings warmth to chilly evenings but also impresses your guests with its sophisticated flavors. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe combines creamy textures, savory sausage, and aromatic herbs to create a meal that feels both cozy and elegant.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 40 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of creamy butternut squash with sausage and fresh herbs makes every bite delicious.
• One-Pan Wonder: Fewer dishes mean more time enjoying your meal with family and friends.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a main course or pair it with a salad for a complete meal.
• Perfect for Fall: Highlight the flavors of the season with this comforting dish that celebrates Autumn ingredients.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage, Thyme, and Sage, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment can make cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large high-sided skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large high-sided skillet: This allows for easy mixing of all ingredients without spills, ensuring everything cooks evenly.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware while giving you control over the cooking process.

Ingredients

For the Main Dish

• 12 oz Italian sausage (casings removed)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 10 oz potato gnocchi
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 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)

How to Make Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage, Thyme, and Sage

Step 1: Prepare the Sausage

1. Remove sausage from casings and slice it into bite-sized pieces.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil on medium heat in a large high-sided skillet.
3. Add the sliced sausage to the skillet. Cook on medium heat for about 4 minutes on one side until browned.

Step 2: Cook the Gnocchi

1. Flip the sausage slices over and cook for another 2 minutes until browned on both sides.
2. To the same skillet, add uncooked potato gnocchi along with heavy cream and chicken broth.
3. Bring everything to a boil on medium heat while stirring well. Cover with a lid.

Step 3: Combine Flavors

1. Allow the gnocchi to cook in the boiling sauce for about 5 minutes while covered.
2. Add butternut squash puree and minced garlic to the pan after five minutes.
3. Bring the mixture back to a boil before reducing heat to low-medium. Stir well.

Step 4: Finish Cooking

1. Let everything cook together for an additional 3 minutes or until gnocchi is cooked through and sauce thickens to your liking.
2. Remove from heat once done cooking.
3. Stir in half of the fresh sage and thyme, seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.

Step 5: Serve Your Dish

1. When serving, top each plate with the remaining fresh sage and thyme for extra flavor.

Enjoy your Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage, Thyme, and Sage as a comforting meal that captures all the best flavors of Fall!

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 be made even more enjoyable with the right accompaniments. Here are some suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Pair with a Side Salad

• A light mixed greens salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the dish.

Add Garlic Bread

• Serve warm, buttery garlic bread on the side for a comforting touch that complements the gnocchi beautifully.

Top with Parmesan Cheese

• Grate fresh Parmesan cheese over the top just before serving for an extra layer of flavor and creaminess.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle additional chopped sage or thyme on top for a pop of color and enhanced herbal notes.

Serve with a Glass of Wine

• A glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, pairs wonderfully with this dish and enhances its flavors.

How to Perfect Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage, Thyme, and Sage

To achieve the best results when making Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage, Thyme, and Sage, follow these helpful tips.

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh thyme and sage not only enhance flavor but also add vibrant color to your dish.

• Cook sausage properly: Make sure the sausage is well-browned for maximum flavor. This adds depth to the sauce.

• Adjust sauce thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer before serving. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

• Taste as you go: Always taste your dish while cooking. Adjust seasoning based on personal preference for salt and pepper.

• Choose quality gnocchi: Opt for high-quality potato gnocchi for better texture and flavor in your finished dish.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage, Thyme, and Sage

Pairing side dishes with Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage, Thyme, and Sage can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy sprouts seasoned with olive oil make a perfect crunchy contrast to creamy gnocchi.

2. Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans add color and provide a fresh bite that complements the richness of the pasta.

3. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad offers crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy dressing that pairs nicely with the dish’s flavors.

4. Herbed Quinoa: Fluffy quinoa cooked in vegetable broth and tossed with herbs will add healthy grains to your plate.

5. Sautéed Spinach: Quickly sautéed spinach in garlic olive oil brings vibrant color and nutrients alongside your hearty gnocchi.

6. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes provide a wholesome sweetness that contrasts beautifully with savory sausage flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage, Thyme, and Sage, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Using frozen gnocchi – Frozen gnocchi can change the texture of your dish. Opt for fresh gnocchi to achieve the best results.
• Overcooking the sausage – Cooking sausage too long can make it tough. Aim for a nice golden-brown color, then add other ingredients.
• Skipping the seasoning – Not seasoning enough can lead to bland flavors. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper accordingly.
• Ignoring the sauce consistency – If the sauce is too thin, it won’t coat the gnocchi well. Allow it to reduce for a thicker texture if needed.
• Not using fresh herbs – Dried herbs lack the vibrant flavor of fresh ones. Always choose fresh thyme and sage for the best taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage, Thyme, and Sage

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage, Thyme, and Sage

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop – Warm over medium heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage, Thyme, and Sage so comforting?

The combination of creamy butternut squash puree with savory sausage creates a warm and cozy dish perfect for chilly evenings.

Can I use different types of sausage?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with chicken sausage or even vegetarian options for a different flavor profile.

How can I customize this recipe?

You can add spinach or kale for added nutrition or swap out herbs based on your preference.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes! The creamy texture and mild flavors make it appealing to children while still satisfying adults.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage, Thyme, and Sage is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or an impressive dish for entertaining guests. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs!