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Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage | Cozy Fall Comfort in a Bowl

If you’re searching for the perfect cozy dinner that feels like autumn in every bite, look no further than this Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage. The pillowy gnocchi, rich butternut squash cream sauce, savory sausage, and fragrant herbs like sage and thyme come together in a dish that is both rustic and restaurant-worthy. This recipe transforms simple pantry staples into a luxurious one-pan meal. The natural sweetness of butternut squash balances beautifully with the richness of cream and the bold, savory flavors of sausage. Add in the gnocchi’s soft texture, and you have the ultimate comfort food. It’s perfect for fall weeknights, dinner parties, or even as a hearty side for Thanksgiving.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Protein & Pasta:
  • 12 oz Italian sausage pork or chicken
  • 10 oz potato gnocchi
Vegetables & Herbs:
  • 1 cup butternut squash puree fresh or canned
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh sage chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh thyme chopped
Liquids & Dairy:
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
Pantry Staples:
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and coarsely ground black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Medium saucepan (for boiling gnocchi)
  • Mixing bowls
  • Sharp knife & cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

Step 1: Cook the Gnocchi
  1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add gnocchi and cook until they float to the surface (about 2–3 minutes).
  3. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add sausage, breaking it into crumbles with a spatula.
  3. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 6–7 minutes.
  4. Remove sausage from skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
  1. In the same skillet, add minced garlic, sage, and thyme.
  2. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
  1. Stir in butternut squash puree and chicken broth.
  2. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, whisking to combine.
  3. Add heavy cream and season with salt and black pepper.
  4. Reduce heat to low and let sauce thicken slightly.
Step 5: Combine Everything
  1. Return sausage to skillet.
  2. Stir in cooked gnocchi until coated in sauce.
  3. Simmer for 2–3 more minutes so flavors meld together.
Step 6: Serve & Garnish
  1. Spoon gnocchi into bowls.
  2. Garnish with extra sage leaves, cracked black pepper, or Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store in airtight container up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in fridge.
Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Add a splash of broth or cream to loosen sauce.
🥄 Variations
Cheesy Version: Stir in ½ cup grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano for extra richness.
Vegetarian: Swap sausage for sautéed mushrooms or roasted chickpeas.
Spicy: Use hot Italian sausage and add red pepper flakes.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free gnocchi.
Extra Veggies: Add spinach, kale, or roasted Brussels sprouts.
❓ 10 FAQs
Can I use store-bought gnocchi?
Yes, shelf-stable or fresh refrigerated gnocchi both work.
Do I need to peel and roast a whole squash?
No—canned or pre-pureed squash works just as well.
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Heavy cream makes it rich, but half-and-half works too.
What kind of sausage is best?
Mild or hot Italian sausage (pork or chicken) gives the best flavor.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes, but the sauce thickens as it cools—add extra broth when reheating.
Can I freeze the sauce separately?
Yes, but add fresh gnocchi after thawing for best texture.
How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?
Simmer longer or stir in 2 tbsp grated Parmesan.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
Can I bake this as a casserole?
Yes, transfer to a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake at 375°F for 15 minutes.
What can I serve with this dish?
Garlic bread, roasted veggies, or a crisp salad.
🏁 Conclusion
This Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage is the ultimate fall comfort food. With pillowy gnocchi, savory sausage, velvety butternut squash sauce, and fresh herbs, it’s a one-pan wonder that looks fancy but is easy enough for weeknights.
Serve it for a cozy family dinner or impress guests with this restaurant-worthy dish. Either way, it’s bound to become a seasonal favorite you’ll crave year after year.