Irresistible Butternut Squash Gnocchi Recipe to Try Now

Butternut squash gnocchi is like that cozy hug from grandma on a chilly day, warming you from the inside out. Imagine sinking your teeth into soft, pillowy dumplings that practically melt in your mouth, paired with the sweet, nutty flavor of roasted butternut squash. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, inviting friends and family to gather around the table for a delightful feast that’s perfect for any occasion.

As I recall my first encounter with butternut squash gnocchi, I can’t help but laugh. It was Thanksgiving at my aunt’s house, and I was convinced I’d impress everyone with my culinary skills. Let’s just say the flour explosion wasn’t quite the grand entrance I had envisioned. However, the taste was unforgettable! These little nuggets of joy have since become a staple for cozy dinners and festive gatherings alike.

Ingredients for Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Butternut Squash: Choose a firm squash with smooth skin; this will be the star ingredient that gives your gnocchi its rich flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour: Essential for achieving that perfect dough consistency; use more or less depending on moisture content of the squash.
• Eggs: One large egg helps bind everything together; make sure it’s at room temperature for better mixing.
• Salt: Just enough to enhance flavors without overpowering them; kosher salt is a great choice.
• Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds depth; don’t skimp here—flavor is key!

For Serving:

• Sage Butter Sauce: A simple combination of butter and fresh sage elevates the dish; sauté until fragrant.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Roast Your Squash

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle some salt and pepper before placing it cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mash That Squash

Once roasted (about 30-40 minutes), let it cool slightly before scooping out the flesh into a mixing bowl. Use a fork or potato masher to create a smooth puree that’s free of lumps—you want soft and fluffy!

Step 3: Make the Dough

Add one egg and about two cups of flour to the pureed squash. Mix until combined but don’t overwork it! You want soft dough that isn’t sticky; adjust flour as needed if it feels too wet.

Step 4: Shape Your Gnocchi

On a floured surface, divide the dough into smaller portions. Roll each portion into long ropes about half an inch thick, then cut them into bite-sized pieces. To give them that classic gnocchi look, gently press each piece with a fork.

Step 5: Boil and Cook

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add your gnocchi gently—don’t crowd them! Once they float to the surface (about two minutes), they are done! Remove them with a slotted spoon.

Step 6: Sauté in Sage Butter

In another pan, melt some butter over medium heat and toss in fresh sage leaves until crispy. Add cooked gnocchi directly into this heavenly sage butter sauce for an irresistible finish.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every warm and comforting bite!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve the best results with butternut squash gnocchi, start by roasting the squash until tender. While it’s cooling, make the dough and bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi in batches for perfect texture.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your butternut squash gnocchi by adding spices like nutmeg or cinnamon for warmth. You can also swap out the sage for fresh thyme or add cheese like ricotta or parmesan for creaminess.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover gnocchi in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently sauté them in olive oil or butter until warmed through, ensuring they stay soft and delicious.

Sometimes my friends ask me how I manage to whip up such delicious dishes effortlessly; little do they know that this butternut squash gnocchi is my secret weapon that always gets rave reviews!

FAQs :

What is Butternut Squash Gnocchi?

Butternut squash gnocchi is a delightful twist on traditional Italian dumplings, made using puréed butternut squash instead of the usual potato. This variation adds a subtle sweetness and a vibrant color to the dish. The gnocchi can be served in various ways, such as with sage butter, marinara sauce, or simply tossed with olive oil and parmesan cheese. It’s a great option for those looking to incorporate more vegetables into their meals while still enjoying the comforting texture of gnocchi.

How do I cook Butternut Squash Gnocchi?

To cook butternut squash gnocchi, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Gently add the gnocchi, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Cook until the gnocchi float to the surface, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Once they rise, allow them to cook for an additional minute before removing them with a slotted spoon. You can then toss the cooked gnocchi with your favorite sauce or sauté them in butter for added flavor and texture.

Can I make Butternut Squash Gnocchi ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare butternut squash gnocchi ahead of time. After forming the gnocchi, you have a couple of options: you can either freeze them or store them in the refrigerator for up to two days. If freezing, place the uncooked gnocchi on a baking sheet in a single layer until frozen solid, then transfer them to an airtight container. When ready to cook, simply boil them directly from frozen; just add an extra minute or two to the cooking time.

What sauces go well with Butternut Squash Gnocchi?

Butternut squash gnocchi pairs well with various sauces that complement its sweet flavor. A classic choice is brown butter and sage sauce, which enhances its natural sweetness while adding nuttiness. Alternatively, you might enjoy it with creamy Alfredo or a light marinara sauce for a heartier option. For something simpler, tossing it in olive oil with garlic and fresh herbs also works wonderfully.

Conclusion for Butternut Squash Gnocchi :

Butternut squash gnocchi offers a deliciously unique take on this classic dish while providing nutritional benefits from the squash. Cooking it is simple and versatile; you can pair it with various sauces according to your taste preferences. Preparing this dish ahead of time makes it convenient for busy weeknights or special occasions. With its appealing flavor and tender texture, butternut squash gnocchi is sure to become a favorite recipe in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy experimenting with different sauces to find your perfect combination!

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Butternut Squash Gnocchi

• Author: Sarah
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

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Description

Warm, creamy, and packed with flavor, this butternut squash gnocchi is the ultimate comfort food that transforms any meal into a festive occasion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 cups pureed)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
• 1 large egg (at room temperature)
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 8 fresh sage leaves

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place cut-side down on a lined baking sheet and roast for about 30-40 minutes until tender.
2. Once roasted, let it cool slightly before scooping out the flesh into a mixing bowl. Mash until smooth and lump-free.
3. Add one egg, two cups of flour, salt, and pepper to the mashed squash. Mix until combined; avoid overworking to keep the dough light.
4. On a floured surface, divide dough into portions. Roll each portion into ropes about half an inch thick and cut into bite-sized pieces. Press each piece gently with a fork to create ridges.
5. Bring salted water to a boil in a large pot. Add gnocchi in batches—once they float to the surface (after about two minutes), remove them using a slotted spoon.
6. In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and add sage leaves until crispy. Toss in cooked gnocchi and sauté for an additional minute to coat in sauce.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 49g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 7g
• Cholesterol: 62mg

Keywords: For additional flavor, consider adding nutmeg or cinnamon to the dough. You can enhance creaminess by mixing in ricotta or parmesan cheese. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently on the stovetop.