Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage

When comfort food meets elegance, this Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage is what you get. Soft pillowy gnocchi, rich roasted squash sauce, and savory sausage come together in a dish that feels restaurant-worthy but is surprisingly easy to make at home.

This is the kind of cozy, fall-inspired dinner that warms you from the inside out — perfect for chilly nights, special dinners, or whenever pasta cravings hit hard.

---

Why This Dish Works So Well

Butternut squash brings natural sweetness and a velvety texture that pairs beautifully with creamy sauce. Italian sausage adds depth, saltiness, and richness, while gnocchi acts as the perfect sponge to soak up every bit of flavor.

It’s:

• Creamy without being heavy
• Savory with a touch of sweetness
• Comforting yet elevated

---

Ingredients

Gnocchi & Sausage

• Shelf-stable or fresh potato gnocchi
• Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
• Olive oil
• Onion, finely diced
• Garlic cloves, minced

Butternut Squash Sauce

• Roasted butternut squash
• Heavy cream
• Vegetable or chicken broth
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• Fresh thyme or sage
• Salt and black pepper

Optional Garnishes

• Extra parmesan
• Fresh thyme leaves
• Cracked black pepper

---

Instructions

1. Roast butternut squash until tender and lightly caramelized.
2. Blend roasted squash with cream and broth until smooth.
3. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
4. Brown sausage in a large skillet, breaking into bite-size pieces.
5. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
6. Pour in squash sauce and gently simmer.
7. Add cooked gnocchi and toss to coat evenly.
8. Stir in parmesan and fresh herbs.
9. Adjust seasoning and serve hot.

---

Flavor & Texture Experience

• Texture: soft gnocchi, silky sauce, juicy sausage
• Flavor: sweet squash, savory sausage, creamy finish
• Aroma: warm herbs and roasted vegetables

Every bite is rich, cozy, and satisfying.

---

Chef Tips for Best Results

• Roast squash deeply for maximum flavor
• Use fresh gnocchi if available
• Don’t overcook gnocchi after adding to sauce
• Finish with parmesan off the heat

---

Serving Suggestions

• Simple green salad
• Garlic bread or focaccia
• Roasted Brussels sprouts
• Glass of dry white wine

---

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate up to 3 days
• Reheat gently with a splash of cream
• Not freezer-friendly (texture changes)

---

Easy Variations

• Swap sausage for mushrooms
• Add spinach or kale
• Use ricotta instead of cream
• Finish with chili flakes for heat

---