There’s something magical about the moment when autumn arrives and butternut squash begins to appear in every market stall. I still remember walking through my grandmother’s village square in Italy, the golden squashes stacked like jewels, promising warmth and comfort in every dish. This recipe for creamy butternut squash gnocchi with sausage brings together the heartiness of rustic cooking with the smooth elegance of seasonal flavors. It’s the kind of meal that fills your home with coziness while staying nourishing and wholesome. With the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash, pillowy gnocchi, and the savory depth of Italian sausage, this dish is pure Mediterranean-inspired comfort food.
Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi
- ½ lb Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, your choice)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup chicken or vegetable broth
- ½ cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp fresh sage, chopped
- ½ tsp nutmeg
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss butternut squash cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast on a lined baking sheet for 25–30 minutes, until tender and golden.
- While the squash roasts, cook gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium heat, breaking it into crumbles. Once browned, remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Add roasted squash, broth, and cream. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Use a fork or masher to gently mash some of the squash into the sauce for creaminess, leaving some chunks whole.
- Stir in Parmesan, nutmeg, and sage. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Add the gnocchi and sausage back into the pan, tossing until coated in the creamy sauce.
- Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.
Tips for Success
- Roast the squash ahead of time to save 20 minutes on busy weeknights.
- For extra creaminess, blend half the roasted squash before adding it to the sauce.
- Swap sausage for mushrooms or lentils for a vegetarian version.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat with a splash of broth.
Cooking Notes & Food Background
Butternut squash has been a staple in Mediterranean kitchens for centuries, valued for its natural sweetness, creamy texture, and versatility. In this dish, it acts as both a vegetable and the base for a luscious sauce, reducing the need for heavy cream. The gnocchi, soft potato dumplings beloved across Italy, absorb the flavors of the sauce beautifully. Sausage adds richness and a protein boost, while sage brings in that classic autumn aroma. Nutritionally, butternut squash is high in vitamin A, fiber, and antioxidants, making this dish both comforting and health-forward. Paired with whole-grain or cauliflower gnocchi, it becomes a nutrient-dense meal that still feels indulgent.
Healthy Weeknight Dinner Ideas
If you’re looking for healthy weeknight dinners, this butternut squash gnocchi with sausage should be on your list. It’s ready in under 40 minutes and balances protein, fiber, and healthy fats in every bite. For an even lighter twist, use turkey sausage or skip the cream in favor of Greek yogurt for tangy richness. Pair with a simple arugula salad and you’ve got a satisfying dinner that feels gourmet without the effort.
Mediterranean-Inspired Comfort Food
Mediterranean comfort food is all about warmth and simplicity, and this dish embodies that philosophy. The roasted squash adds natural sweetness, while sage and nutmeg give the sauce a cozy, earthy note. Gnocchi, although Italian, feels universal when paired with seasonal vegetables. It’s the perfect example of how Mediterranean cooking celebrates fresh ingredients and balanced flavors while still indulging your senses.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace sausage with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or plant-based sausage for a vegetarian version.
2. What type of gnocchi works best?
Classic potato gnocchi works beautifully, but you can also try cauliflower or whole-wheat gnocchi for a healthier twist.
3. Can I freeze butternut squash gnocchi?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the roasted squash separately and add it to the sauce later.
4. What can I use instead of cream?
Coconut cream, cashew cream, or Greek yogurt are excellent swaps if you’re avoiding dairy.
Conclusion
Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage is the ultimate cozy autumn meal. With roasted butternut squash, pillowy gnocchi, and savory sausage, this dish is hearty yet wholesome. Uncover the full recipe and bring Mediterranean comfort to your table.
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Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy and cozy pasta dish with roasted butternut squash, gnocchi, and savory sausage.
Ingredients
1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt & black pepper, to taste
1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi
½ lb Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, your choice)
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup chicken or vegetable broth
½ cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp fresh sage, chopped
½ tsp nutmeg
Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss butternut squash cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast 25–30 minutes.
2. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Cook sausage in skillet until browned, remove and set aside.
4. Add garlic to skillet, sauté briefly. Add roasted squash, broth, and cream, simmer 5 minutes.
5. Mash some squash into sauce, leaving chunks.
6. Stir in Parmesan, nutmeg, and sage. Season to taste.
7. Add gnocchi and sausage, toss to coat.
8. Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan.
Notes
Roast squash ahead of time to save prep.
Swap sausage for mushrooms for vegetarian option.
Store leftovers for 3 days, reheat with broth.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop & Roasting
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
