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Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage

A cozy, one-pan meal featuring creamy gnocchi, Italian sausage, and a savory sauce, perfect for a satisfying dinner.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 500

Ingredients
  

For the Gnocchi
  • 1 lb butternut squash, peeled and cubed
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour Additional flour may be required based on squash moisture.
  • 1 large egg
  • to taste Salt and pepper
For the Creamy Sauce
  • 1 cup heavy cream Can substitute with half-and-half or cashew cream.
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Toast for extra flavor.
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • to taste Salt and pepper
For the Sausage
  • 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed Can substitute with turkey or chicken sausage.
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes Adjust to taste for more spice.

Method
 

Make the Gnocchi
  1. Boil the butternut squash until soft, then drain and cool.
  2. Mash into a smooth puree and transfer to a mixing bowl.
  3. Add the egg, flour, salt, and pepper; mix until a dough forms.
  4. Roll the dough into long ropes and cut into bite-sized pieces.
  5. Use a fork to create ridges in the gnocchi.
  6. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil; cook the gnocchi until they float to the surface.
  7. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Creamy Sauce
  1. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat; add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
  2. Pour in heavy cream and let it simmer, stirring in Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens.
  3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cook the Sausage
  1. In a separate pan over medium heat, warm olive oil; add onion and cook until translucent.
  2. Add sausage and crumble; stir in garlic and red pepper flakes; cook until browned through.
Combine
  1. Toss the gnocchi with the creamy sauce, then add the sausage mixture and toss to coat everything beautifully.
Serve
  1. Plate it up and garnish if you desire!

Notes

This dish keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze and reheat gradually.