There’s something utterly heartwarming about a creamy bowl of gnocchi, especially when it embraces the seasonal sweetness of butternut squash. As the cooler days roll in, I find myself longing for dishes that offer comfort and nostalgia, and this Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage checks all the boxes. The first time I made it, the combination of earthy squash and savory sausage left my kitchen smelling divine, transforming an ordinary weeknight into a cozy family gathering.

What makes this dish so special is its versatility; it’s equally delightful when served as a comforting weeknight meal or dressed up for a gathering with friends. Whether you prefer the hearty richness of Italian sausage or a vegetarian twist with plant-based alternatives, this recipe ensures every bite is satisfying and indulgent. So, grab your apron, and let’s create a dish that not only warms the body but also the heart, making it the star of your dinner table!

Why is Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi a Must-Try?

Ultimate comfort: This dish blends the natural sweetness of butternut squash with the hearty flavor of sausage, creating a satisfying meal that warms you from the inside out.
Versatile options: Whether you go for traditional Italian sausage or opt for plant-based alternatives, you can customize it to suit your taste preferences.
Easy to make: The straightforward process means anyone, from beginners to seasoned chefs, can whip up this delicious meal in no time.
Perfect for sharing: Ideal for family dinners or gatherings, it’s a dish that brings loved ones together around the table, ensuring everyone leaves happy and full.
For more delightful variations, check out our section on variation ideas.

Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi Ingredients

For the Gnocchi
• Butternut Squash – Provides sweetness and a velvety texture; substitute with other winter squashes if needed.
• Flour – Essential for binding the gnocchi; all-purpose flour works best.
• Egg – Acts as a binder; for a vegan option, try a flaxseed egg mix.

For the Sauce
• Italian Sausage – Adds savory depth and richness; swap for plant-based sausage for a vegetarian take.
• Cream – Offers creaminess to the sauce; use dairy-free cream to make a vegan version.
• Broth (Vegetable or Chicken) – Enhances flavor; vegetable broth keeps it fully vegetarian.
• Cheese (e.g., Parmesan) – Provides umami and creaminess; nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free alternative.

For Flavoring
• Garlic – Adds aromatic goodness; fresh or roasted garlic can elevate the flavor.
• Seasonings (e.g., salt, pepper) – Essential for taste; be generous with fresh herbs for added character.

This delightful Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi can be tailored to your liking, making it a true comfort food masterpiece!

How to Make Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Prepare the Gnocchi: Start by mixing butternut squash puree with flour and egg in a bowl until a dough forms. Knead gently and shape into small dumplings, creating bite-sized pieces.
Cook the Gnocchi: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook until they float to the surface, which indicates they’re ready (about 2-3 minutes). Drain and set aside.
Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the sausage and cook until nicely browned, making sure to crumble it as it cooks for even texture.
Sauté Garlic: Add minced garlic to the skillet, cooking for an additional minute until the aroma fills your kitchen and the garlic becomes fragrant.
Mix in the Sauce: Stir in the butternut squash puree and broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. This will blend those rich flavors together beautifully.
Incorporate Cream and Cheese: Gradually pour in the cream and sprinkle with cheese. Stir until everything is well combined and the sauce is creamy and heated through.
Combine Gnocchi and Sauce: Gently fold the cooked gnocchi into the sauce, making sure each piece is coated without breaking apart, for about 1-2 minutes.
Serve and Garnish: Spoon the creamy gnocchi into bowls and serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or additional cheese for an appetizing touch.

Optional: Top with a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper for a little extra kick.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi Variations

Looking to make this dish uniquely yours? Explore these delightful twists and flavors!

Vegetarian: Swap out the Italian sausage for plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth for a heartwarming veggie version.
Extra Greens: Toss in sautéed spinach or kale for added color, nutrients, and texture that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
Cheese Swap: Try different cheeses like goat cheese or feta for a tangy twist that adds depth to the dish.
Add Heat: Sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes for a gentle kick, enhancing the flavors with a spicy twist.
Nutty Flavor: Incorporate a handful of toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a delicious crunch and an elevated flavor profile.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs such as sage or thyme for an aromatic touch that complements the squash beautifully.
Citrus Zest: Add a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of zest for a bright contrast, bringing freshness to the creamy dish.
Sweet Twist: Drizzle with a bit of maple syrup for an unexpected sweetness that beautifully balances the savory notes.

Feel free to mix and match these variations to create a dish that reflects your personal taste and creativity!

What to Serve with Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi?

Elevate your dinner experience with delightful sides and pairings that will complement every comforting bite of this creamy dish.

Garlic Bread: Crunchy and buttery, garlic bread delivers that perfect crunch and aroma, making it an irresistible addition to your meal.
Arugula Salad: A fresh arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette adds a peppery bite, balancing the creaminess of the gnocchi beautifully.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These crisp, caramelized sprouts add an earthy flavor and a delightful crunch, enhancing the overall texture of the meal.
Steamed Broccoli: Offering a bright green contrast, steamed broccoli brings in freshness and nutrients, making your meal wholesome and vibrant.
Red Wine: A glass of rich red wine pairs wonderfully with the savory sausage and creamy sauce, creating a luxurious dining experience.
Pumpkin Spice Muffins: For a sweet finish, serve warm pumpkin spice muffins to echo the flavors of fall and leave your guests feeling cozy.
Butternut Squash Soup: Enhance the seasonal theme by serving a small cup of butternut squash soup as a starter, setting the tone for what’s to come.
Herbed Quinoa: Nutty and fluffy, herbed quinoa acts as a light yet filling base, bringing texture and a healthy twist to your dinner plate.

Storage Tips for Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed.
Freezer: Both the gnocchi and sauce can be frozen separately for up to 2 months. Freeze in airtight containers, ensuring the sauce is cooled before sealing.
Reheating: For best results, reheat the sauce on the stove while gently warming the gnocchi in boiling water or the microwave, ensuring they don’t overcook.
Make-Ahead: The creamy sauce can be made in advance and stored in the fridge, ready to combine with freshly cooked gnocchi for a quick meal.

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the gnocchi and sauce up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerating them separately to maintain quality. Simply shape the gnocchi and store them in a lightly floured container, ensuring they don’t stick together. For the sauce, cook and cool it completely before transferring to an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the sauce over low heat while cooking the gnocchi in boiling water until they float (about 2-3 minutes). Combining both will give you that delicious, comforting meal with minimal effort, making weeknight dinners a breeze!

Expert Tips for Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Homemade Happiness: Make your own gnocchi for the best flavor and texture; store-bought can’t compare to the freshness!
Blend it Smooth: For an ultra-creamy sauce, blend the butternut squash puree before adding it to the skillet to eliminate any lumps.
Perfect Texture: Avoid overcooking the gnocchi; they should float to the top of the boiling water and be tender but not mushy.
Season Wisely: Always taste and adjust seasoning; substituting ingredients may require more salt or spices to balance flavors.
Storage Savvy: Store any leftovers in airtight containers. Both the creamy butternut squash gnocchi and sauce freeze well for future meals!

Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting butternut squash?
Absolutely! When selecting butternut squash, look for one that is firm with a smooth, even skin, avoiding any with dark spots or blemishes. The squash should feel heavy for its size, indicating it’s ripe and full of flavor. If it has a dull color rather than a shiny one, that’s a good sign too!

How can I store leftover Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi?
Very important! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it fresher for longer, freeze the gnocchi and sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Just be sure the sauce has cooled before you freeze it.

Can I freeze Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi?
Absolutely! Freezing is easy; for the gnocchi, lay them out on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. For the sauce, pour it into an airtight container and freeze. They can be kept for up to 2 months. When ready to use, just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What if my gnocchi turns out too mushy?
Oh no! If your gnocchi gets mushy, it could be due to overcooking. Make sure to only cook them until they float, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Another tip is to ensure you’re using the right flour-to-puree ratio when making your dough. If the dough feels too sticky, don’t hesitate to add a bit more flour.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Very much so! To make it vegetarian, simply substitute the Italian sausage for a plant-based variety and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The richness from the butternut squash with these alternates still offers that satisfying, hearty flavor without sacrificing taste.

Can I make Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the creamy sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to serve, cook the gnocchi fresh to ensure the best texture. Combine the pre-made sauce with the freshly cooked gnocchi, and you’ll have a quick meal ready in no time!