Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Chicken Sausage Delight

November 21, 2025December 19, 2024 by Chef Tavio

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 1 medium butternut squash (approx. 1.5 lbs), peeled and diced

– 2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)

– 1 pound chicken sausage (Italian flavor recommended)

Additional Ingredients

– 1 large egg

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– 2 cloves garlic, finely minced

Seasonings and Garnishes

– 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped

– 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)

– ½ teaspoon nutmeg

– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

The star of this dish is the butternut squash. It adds a creamy texture and a sweet flavor. To prepare it, you need to peel and dice it into small pieces. The next main player is all-purpose flour. This helps bind the gnocchi together. Chicken sausage adds protein and a robust taste. I suggest using Italian sausage for extra flavor.

Don’t forget the egg! It brings everything together. Olive oil gives a lovely richness, while garlic adds a nice kick. Fresh spinach brightens the dish and adds color. Thyme and nutmeg bring warmth and depth. Finally, sprinkle grated Parmesan on top for a savory finish.

Together, these ingredients create a hearty and comforting meal. Each bite bursts with flavor and warmth. This dish is perfect for any occasion. You can serve it at family dinners or cozy nights in. Enjoy the process of cooking and savor the delightful result!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Butternut Squash

– Roasting Method: First, heat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Take the peeled and diced butternut squash. Toss it with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Spread the squash on a baking sheet. Roast for 25 to 30 minutes until it’s tender and lightly caramelized.

– Cooling Tips: Once roasted, take the squash out of the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes. This helps it to not steam when you mash it.

Making the Gnocchi Dough

– Steps for Mixing Ingredients: In a large bowl, mash the roasted butternut squash until it’s smooth. Add in one large egg. Mix well. Gradually stir in two cups of all-purpose flour and one teaspoon of salt.

– Texture Considerations: Your dough should be soft and slightly sticky. If it feels too sticky, add a little more flour. Don’t overwork the dough; it can make your gnocchi tough.

Shaping and Cooking Gnocchi

– Shaping Technique: Dust your counter with flour. Divide the dough into four parts. Roll each part into a long rope about ½ inch thick. Cut these ropes into 1-inch pieces.

– Cooking Time and Tips: To shape the gnocchi, use a fork to press lightly on each piece. This creates ridges, helping the sauce stick later. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi in batches for about 2 to 3 minutes, or until they float to the top.

Cooking Chicken Sausage

– Crumbling Technique: Remove the casing from the chicken sausage. In a large pan, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Crumble the sausage into the pan.

– Browning Process: Cook the sausage for 7 to 10 minutes until it turns golden brown. Add two cloves of finely minced garlic and cook for one more minute.

Combining Ingredients

– Mixing Gnocchi with Sausage: Add the cooked gnocchi to the pan with sausage. Stir in 1 cup of chopped fresh spinach, 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme, and ½ teaspoon of nutmeg.

– Final Seasoning Tips: Mix everything gently until the spinach wilts. Taste and add salt and pepper as needed.

Serving Suggestions

– Plating Techniques: Use a large spoon to serve the gnocchi mixture onto plates.

– Garnishing with Cheese: Finish the dish by grating fresh Parmesan cheese on top. You can also add fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon for extra flavor.

Tips & Tricks

Best Practices for Gnocchi Preparation

– Avoiding Dough Overworking: Gnocchi dough needs care. Overworking makes it tough. Mix just until combined. A soft, slightly sticky dough is best.

– Proper Dusting Techniques: Dust your work surface with flour. This prevents sticking when shaping. Use just enough flour to keep the dough manageable without adding too much.

Cooking Gnocchi Tips

– Knowing When Gnocchi is Done: Watch for gnocchi to float. This means they are ready. It usually takes 2-3 minutes in boiling water.

– Tips for Perfect Texture: Cook in small batches. This keeps the water temperature steady. For a light texture, avoid overcooking.

Enhancing Flavor

– Suggestions for Additional Herbs: Fresh herbs boost flavor. Try adding basil or rosemary. They mix well with the squash and sausage.

– Alternate Cheese Options: While Parmesan is great, try goat cheese for a tangy kick. Feta also adds a nice touch.

Variations

Alternative Proteins

Using Turkey Sausage

You can swap chicken sausage for turkey sausage. Turkey sausage is leaner and still tasty. Look for Italian-flavored turkey sausage for a similar spice profile. It keeps the dish light while adding great flavor.

Vegetarian Substitutes

For a vegetarian twist, try using a mix of mushrooms or lentils. Both options add texture and depth. You can also use plant-based sausage for a hearty and satisfying meal. This way, everyone can enjoy the dish!

Different Vegetable Additions

Incorporating Other Greens

You can add more greens like kale or Swiss chard. They cook down nicely and blend with the gnocchi. Just toss them in with the chicken sausage for a healthy boost.

Seasonal Vegetables Options

Think about adding seasonal vegetables. Roasted Brussels sprouts or zucchini work well in fall. These veggies not only add color but also pack in nutrients. Adjust the cooking time to ensure they are tender and flavorful.

Flavor Twists

Adding Spices

To amp up the flavor, add spices like paprika or crushed red pepper. They can bring heat and warmth to the dish. Start with a little, then taste and add more if you want a kick!

Using Different Cheeses

Instead of Parmesan, try using goat cheese or feta. Both cheeses provide a creamy texture and tangy taste. This can change the dish’s flavor profile and make it unique to your taste.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your butternut squash gnocchi fresh, use these steps:

– Best Practices for Refrigeration: Place leftovers in the fridge within two hours after cooking. Let them cool before sealing. This helps keep the texture nice. Store them in an airtight container to avoid drying out.

– Container Recommendations: Glass containers work well for storing. They don’t stain and are easy to clean. Use plastic containers if you prefer lightweight options. Ensure they seal tightly to keep moisture in.

Freezing Gnocchi

Freezing is a great option if you want to save some gnocchi.

– How to Freeze Uncooked Gnocchi: Spread the shaped gnocchi on a baking sheet. Make sure they don’t touch each other. Freeze them for about an hour. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag. This will stop them from sticking together.

– Reheating Instructions: When ready to cook, you can boil them straight from the freezer. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. You can also sauté them after boiling for a crispy finish.

Shelf Life Estimates

Understanding shelf life helps you enjoy your meal safely.

– Duration for Refrigerated Storage: If stored properly, the leftovers will last about 3-5 days in the fridge. Check for any signs of spoilage before eating.

– Importance of Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh ingredients makes a big difference in taste and safety. Always select high-quality produce and meats. Fresh items last longer and taste better in your dishes.

FAQs

How to make butternut squash gnocchi from scratch?

– First, roast the butternut squash until tender.

– Mash the squash until smooth in a bowl.

– Mix in the egg, then add flour and salt gradually.

– Knead to form a soft dough, but don’t overwork it.

– Roll the dough into ropes and cut into small pieces.

– Use a fork to create ridges on each piece.

– Cook the gnocchi in boiling salted water until they float.

Making gnocchi from scratch is fun! You can adjust the flour to get the right texture. Remember, the dough should feel soft and slightly sticky.

Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Yes, you can use store-bought gnocchi for a quicker meal.

Look for fresh or frozen gnocchi in your grocery store. They often cook faster than homemade. Just follow the package instructions for cooking time.

Store-bought gnocchi saves time but may lack the fresh taste of homemade.

How long does homemade gnocchi last in the fridge?

Homemade gnocchi lasts about 2-3 days in the fridge.

Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing.

For freezing, place them on a baking sheet first. Once frozen, transfer them to a bag. They can last several months in the freezer!

What can I serve with butternut squash gnocchi?

You can serve butternut squash gnocchi with several tasty sides.

– Garlic bread pairs well and adds a crunchy texture.

– A simple green salad gives freshness and balance.

– Roasted vegetables can add more flavor and color.

These sides complement the gnocchi and create a lovely meal. Enjoy!

You now have the complete guide to making delicious butternut squash gnocchi. We covered the main ingredients like butternut squash and chicken sausage, and I shared step-by-step instructions for each part of the process. You learned some tips to make perfect gnocchi and explored fun variations.

With these insights, you can create a tasty dish that impresses everyone at your table. Enjoy your cooking and don’t hesitate to get creative with flavors or ingredient