Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage is such a comforting dish that brings together pillowy soft gnocchi made from sweet butternut squash and a rich, creamy sauce. The savory sausage adds a nice hearty kick that balances the smooth, slightly sweet flavor of the squash. It’s a cozy meal that feels fancy but is super easy to make.
I love making this when I want something warm and filling without spending hours in the kitchen. The butternut squash gnocchi has a lovely tender texture that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce, and the sausage adds just the right amount of spice and saltiness. If you want, you can add a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a little parmesan on top to make it even more special.
My favorite way to serve this is right out of the pan, still steaming hot, maybe with a simple green salad on the side to brighten things up. It’s one of those dishes that’s great for a weeknight dinner but would also impress guests if you want to treat yourself. I always find it hits the spot, especially when the weather gets cooler and I’m craving something warm and tasty.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butternut Squash Gnocchi: These add a lovely soft texture and subtle sweetness. Store-bought versions save time, but homemade gnocchi are extra tender. If you can’t find butternut squash gnocchi, regular potato gnocchi works well too.
Italian Sausage: I prefer spicy sausage for a little kick, but mild is great if you want it gentler. For a vegetarian option, try plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms for a meaty feel.
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce rich and creamy. You can swap it with half-and-half or coconut cream to lighten it up or make it dairy-free, but expect a slightly different texture.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds sharp, nutty flavor to the sauce. Pecorino Romano is a good substitute if you want a saltier taste. For dairy-free versions, nutritional yeast can add cheesy notes.
Fresh Herbs: Sage and thyme bring wonderful earthy flavors. Fresh is best, but dried herbs can work if needed—just use less so they don’t overpower the dish.
How Do You Make the Sauce Smooth and Creamy Without Breaking It?
The secret to a silky sauce is adding the cream slowly and keeping the heat low once it’s in the pan. High heat can cause cream to separate or curdle.
- Sauté onions and garlic gently over medium heat until soft but not browned.
- Add broth and simmer briefly to intensify flavor.
- Turn heat to low before stirring in the cream slowly.
- Let it simmer gently, stirring frequently, to thicken without boiling.
- Finally, add cheese in small amounts and stir until melted and smooth.
Taking these steps helps avoid curdling and keeps your sauce luxuriously creamy. I always keep the heat low once cream is added and stir often to get the perfect texture.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – I like it because it has enough space to cook everything evenly and makes cleanup easy.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – great for stirring and scraping up browned bits without scratching the pan.
- Boiling pot – needed to cook the gnocchi and drain them once they float to the surface.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to keep everything precise, especially for cream and broth.
- Grater – for fresh Parmesan cheese or nutmeg; adds a burst of flavor at the end.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use spicy Italian sausage or swap for turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner option.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to boost veggie content and add earthy flavors.
- Top with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or squeeze of lemon for brightness and contrast.
- Sprinkle with red pepper flakes if you want a bit of heat in every bite.
Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi With Sausage
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) butternut squash gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- 12 oz (340g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
For The Creamy Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1/4 tsp freshly grated nutmeg (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh sage leaves for garnish
- Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes to cook. Overall, you’ll be ready to enjoy your delicious meal in roughly 30 minutes — perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Gnocchi:
If you’re using frozen gnocchi, boil them according to the package directions until they float to the top. For fresh gnocchi, boil them until they float as well. Drain them and set aside while you prepare the sauce.
2. Brown the Sausage:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it apart with your spoon. Cook the sausage for about 6 to 8 minutes until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. Then, remove it from the pan and set aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the finely chopped onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until it softens. Add the minced garlic and cook for one more minute until you can smell the lovely aroma.
4. Build the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the pan to lift those delicious browned bits. Let the broth simmer for about 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
5. Make It Creamy:
Turn the heat down low and slowly stir in the heavy cream and a pinch of nutmeg if you’re using it. Allow the sauce to gently simmer and thicken for about 4 to 5 minutes.
6. Add the Cheese and Season:
Stir the Parmesan cheese into the sauce until it melts smoothly. Taste and season with salt and pepper as you like.
7. Combine Everything:
Add the sausage back into the skillet along with the cooked gnocchi. Gently toss everything so the gnocchi and sausage get nicely coated with the creamy sauce. Warm everything together for another minute or two.
8. Serve and Garnish:
Turn off the heat. Serve your lovely creamy butternut squash gnocchi topped with fresh sage leaves, a sprinkle of fresh thyme, and extra grated Parmesan cheese for a delicious finishing touch.
Can I Use Frozen Butternut Squash Gnocchi?
Yes, frozen gnocchi works perfectly! Just cook according to the package instructions until they float, then drain and proceed with the recipe. No need to thaw beforehand.
Can I Substitute the Sausage for a Vegetarian Option?
Absolutely! You can replace the sausage with sautéed mushrooms, plant-based sausage, or even roasted vegetables for a delicious meat-free version.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover gnocchi and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to keep the sauce creamy, adding a splash of cream if needed.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! Cook the sauce and sausage in advance, refrigerate separately from the gnocchi, then combine and reheat just before serving for best texture.