Easy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage Recipe

I swear, some nights dinner feels like a Herculean task. Anyone else with me? It’s 5 PM, the kids are hangry, and my brain is officially fried. That’s when I rely on my sanity-saving recipes – like this amazing Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage. Seriously, the first time I made Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage, it was a game changer. My little one, who usually turns up her nose at anything orange, devoured it! I knew I was onto something special.

This recipe is a lifesaver because it’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. We all know how hard it is to get those veggies into our kiddos. Butternut squash is a nutritional powerhouse, and the sweetness pairs perfectly with the savory sausage. Even better? You can totally customize it to suit your family’s tastes. Plus, who doesn’t love a one-pan meal for easy cleanup?

Listen, I get it. We’re all just trying to survive the dinner hour. If you’re looking for a delicious and comforting meal that the whole family will actually eat, you’ve come to the right place! My Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage is here to help. Let’s make some mealtime magic together, friends!

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage. Don’t worry, this list is short and sweet. Mama doesn’t have time for complicated!

• 1 package (17.6 ounces) shelf-stable gnocchi: I usually grab mine from Target during my regular grocery run.
• 1 pound Italian sausage: You can use sweet, mild, or hot depending on your family’s preference. My crew likes the mild variety.
• 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 pounds), peeled, seeded, and cubed: Pre-cut squash is a lifesaver when you’re short on time. No shame in that game!
• 1 medium onion, chopped: Yellow or white onions work best in this Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage recipe.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: You can use jarred minced garlic if you’re in a pinch.
• 1 cup chicken broth: Vegetable broth works too!
• 1/2 cup heavy cream: For that extra creamy touch. You can substitute with half-and-half or even milk if you’re watching calories.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Because cheese makes everything better!
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing.
• 1 teaspoon dried sage: Adds a warm, earthy flavor to the Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Adjust to taste.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground is always best.

No worries if you don’t have fresh sage. I use dried all the time in my Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage. If you want to make this Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage a bit healthier, feel free to substitute the heavy cream with Greek yogurt. It adds a tangy flavor and a boost of protein!

Here’s a mom hack that saved my sanity: I often prep the butternut squash on Sunday so it’s ready to go during the week. That makes preparing Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage come together in a snap. Also, feel free to add other veggies like spinach or kale for an extra boost of nutrients. My kids don’t even notice!

Alright, kitchen warriors, let’s get cooking! This Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage recipe is so easy, you’ll be amazed. Follow these simple steps and dinner will be on the table in no time.

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. The aroma is amazing, right?
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. The onion should be translucent and fragrant. Now add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. I always burn my garlic if I don’t watch it closely!
3. Add the cubed butternut squash to the skillet and cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly softened. It doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this point.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cover the skillet and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the butternut squash is tender. This is a good time to fold that laundry pile you’ve been ignoring. Don’t worry, we all have one!
5. Stir in the gnocchi, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, sage, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until the gnocchi is heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly. Your Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage should smell divine by now!
6. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. If you want a richer flavor, add another sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage!

In my chaotic kitchen, this Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage usually takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. That’s a win in my book! While your Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage is simmering, pour yourself that well-deserved coffee (or wine – no judgment here!). I use this time to set the table or wrangle the kids. This Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage recipe is very forgiving, so don’t panic if you need to step away for a few minutes. Just give it a stir every now and then.

Here’s where I used to mess up my Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage: I would add the gnocchi too early, and it would get mushy. Now I wait until the very end, and it turns out perfectly every time. Don’t make my mistake! Another sanity-saving shortcut: Use pre-cooked sausage to cut down on cooking time. This is especially helpful on those super busy weeknights.

My family devours this Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage when I serve it with a simple side salad. The crisp greens provide a nice contrast to the creamy gnocchi. I usually just toss some mixed greens with a light vinaigrette. This Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage is also fantastic with some crusty bread for dipping into the sauce. Because who doesn’t love dipping bread into a delicious sauce?

This Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage is perfect for those crazy weeknight dinners or even a cozy weekend meal. It’s also a great dish to bring to a potluck or share with friends. Everyone always raves about it! I even made a butternut squash pasta bake version of this recipe for Thanksgiving one year, and it was a huge hit. My guests loved the creamy texture and the combination of sweet and savory flavors.

For leftovers, I love to pack this Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage in my kids’ lunchboxes. It’s a filling and nutritious meal that they actually enjoy eating. You can also repurpose the leftovers by adding them to a frittata or omelet. Talk about a delicious and easy breakfast!

The kids always ask for more Parmesan cheese on top, and my husband likes to add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little kick. For a seasonal variation, try adding some roasted Brussels sprouts or cranberries. Trust me, it’s delicious! If your kids love this, they’ll go crazy for my sausage pasta skillet. It’s another quick and easy weeknight winner.

I know you probably have some questions about this Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage recipe. Here are some of the most common ones I get from my mom tribe:

1. Can my picky eater handle this Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage?Absolutely! The sweetness of the butternut squash is often a hit with picky eaters. Start with a small portion and let them try it. You can also sneak in some extra veggies like spinach or peas.
2. What if I burn my Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage? (Asking for a friend… okay, it was me!)Been there, done that! If you accidentally burn your Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage, don’t panic. Just carefully transfer the unburned portion to a clean pan. Add a little extra broth or cream to rehydrate it and continue cooking.
3. Can I make this Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage ahead for meal prep?Yes, you can! This Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage is great for meal prepping. Just cook it according to the recipe instructions and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop.
4. Can I freeze this Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage?While you can technically freeze it, the texture of the gnocchi might change slightly. If you do freeze it, make sure to thaw it completely before reheating.
5. What kind of sausage should I use for this Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage?I usually use mild Italian sausage, but you can use sweet or hot depending on your preference. You can also use turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a healthier option.
6. Can I use pre-made butternut squash puree instead of fresh squash?Yes, but the flavor won’t be quite as good. If you use pre-made puree, reduce the amount of chicken broth you add.
7. What are good side dishes to serve with Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage?A simple green salad or steamed broccoli goes well with it. My kids also love it with garlic bread. You can find great ideas at Creamy Butternut Squash and Gnocchi Soup – Supper With Michelle, Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage, Thyme, and Sage …, and Sausage and Kale Butternut Squash Gnocchi.

My kids love these autumn gnocchi recipes, but they also ask for it year-round. What can I say? They have good taste! For more sanity-saving dinner ideas, check out my recipe for butternut squash soup. It’s another family favorite!

This Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage is more than just a recipe to me. It’s a symbol of those crazy weeknight dinners, the laughter around the table, and the joy of feeding my family something they truly enjoy. It’s a reminder that even in the midst of the beautiful chaos, we can create something delicious and memorable.

My Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage Mom Hacks:

• Prep the squash ahead of time: This saves so much time during the week.
• Use pre-cooked sausage: Another great time-saver.
• Don’t be afraid to experiment with veggies: Sneak in those extra nutrients!

Here are a few family-tested variations of my Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage:

• Spicy Sausage: Use hot Italian sausage and add a pinch of red pepper flakes. My husband loves this version!
• Cheesy Baked: Transfer the Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage to a baking dish, top with mozzarella cheese, and bake until bubbly and golden brown.
• Veggie-Packed: Add spinach, kale, or roasted Brussels sprouts for an extra boost of nutrients. The kids don’t even notice!

I hope you and your family love this Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage as much as we do. Remember, cooking should be fun and stress-free. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own. I promise, you’ve got this, kitchen warrior! And for another dish packed with similar flavors, why not try these egg muffins with spinach and feta or the amazing recipes here: sausage pasta skillet. These autumn gnocchi recipes are going to be the answer to all your weeknight meal problems! You can find some inspiration for homemade gnocchi sausage recipe ideas here: butternut squash soup

Now go forth and create some mealtime magic! This Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage is calling your name. You’ve got this, Mom!