Cozy Butternut Squash Gnocchi Recipe You’ll Love

Butternut squash gnocchi is like a warm hug on a plate. Imagine sinking your fork into tender, pillowy bites that are both sweet and savory, bursting with the earthy flavor of roasted butternut squash. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, wrapping you in its cozy embrace, making it impossible to resist. This dish is perfect for chilly evenings or gatherings with friends, where laughter and good food create unforgettable memories. For more inspiration, check out this creamy lemon shrimp pasta recipe.

Every time I make butternut squash gnocchi, I’m reminded of family dinners at my grandma’s house, where the air was thick with laughter and the tantalizing smell of home-cooked meals. She would roll out the dough with her trusty rolling pin while telling stories about our family history, each tale more entertaining than the last. It was a glorious chaos filled with flour-covered faces and a sense of togetherness that only homemade food can bring. Get ready to embark on this delightful culinary adventure!

Ingredients for Butternut Squash Gnocchi

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

• Butternut Squash: Choose a firm squash without blemishes; roasting brings out its natural sweetness.
• All-Purpose Flour: Essential for forming the dough; ensure it’s fresh for optimal texture.
• Egg Yolk: Adds richness and binds the ingredients together; use fresh eggs if possible.
• Salt: Enhances flavors; kosher salt works best for even distribution.
• Nutmeg: A pinch adds warmth and depth to the dish; freshly grated is ideal.

For Serving:

• Sage Butter Sauce: Melted butter infused with sage elevates this dish; brown it for an extra nutty flavor.

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 the Butternut 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, sprinkle with salt, and place cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast for about 30-40 minutes until tender.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

Once cooled, scoop out the flesh into a mixing bowl. Mash it until smooth—no lumps allowed! Add egg yolk, salt, nutmeg, and gradually mix in flour until a soft dough forms.

Step 3: Roll Out the Gnocchi

Dust your countertop lightly with flour. Divide the dough into sections and roll each section into long ropes about half an inch thick. Cut them into bite-sized pieces.

Step 4: Shape the Gnocchi

Using a fork or your thumb, gently press each piece to create ridges—this step helps sauce cling better (and makes you look like a pro).

Step 5: Cook the Gnocchi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Drop in gnocchi gently; they’re ready when they float to the top—like little buoyant pillows! Remove them with a slotted spoon.

Step 6: Make Sage Butter Sauce

In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter until bubbly. Add fresh sage leaves and cook until fragrant and slightly crispy—watching it transform is oddly satisfying!

To serve, transfer your beautifully cooked gnocchi onto plates and drizzle generously with sage butter sauce for that perfect finishing touch! Enjoy this delightful dish surrounded by loved ones—it’s bound to spark joy!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Begin by roasting your butternut squash until it’s soft and caramelized. While that’s happening, prepare your dough by mixing flour and the roasted squash. Roll, cut, and shape your gnocchi before boiling them. Finish with your favorite sauce while keeping everything warm.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out butternut squash for sweet potatoes or add herbs like sage or thyme for an aromatic twist. For a vegan version, use aquafaba instead of egg. sweet potato kale lasagna You can also spice things up with chili flakes or cheese variations!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover gnocchi in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply sauté them in a pan with a splash of olive oil until heated through, enhancing their flavor without losing texture.

I remember the first time I served butternut squash gnocchi at a dinner party; my friends couldn’t believe I made it from scratch! Their astonished faces were priceless, and it quickly became a favorite dish that always gets requested at gatherings.

FAQs:

What is Butternut Squash Gnocchi?

Butternut Squash Gnocchi is a delightful twist on traditional Italian dumplings. Made from roasted butternut squash, flour, and eggs, these gnocchi are soft, pillowy, and packed with flavor. The sweetness of the squash balances beautifully with savory sauces. butternut squash quesadillas It’s a versatile dish that can be served with sage brown butter, marinara sauce, or even pesto. This recipe is perfect for those looking to incorporate seasonal vegetables into their meals while enjoying a comforting pasta alternative.

How do I make Butternut Squash Gnocchi from scratch?

To make Butternut Squash Gnocchi from scratch, start by roasting peeled and cubed butternut squash until tender. Once cooled, mash the squash and mix it with flour and egg to form a dough. Roll the dough into logs and cut them into small pieces. Shape each piece with a fork to create the classic gnocchi indentations. Finally, boil them in salted water until they float to the surface, indicating they’re cooked. The whole process is simple yet rewarding!

Can I freeze Butternut Squash Gnocchi?

Yes, you can freeze Butternut Squash Gnocchi! After shaping the gnocchi, lay them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to three months. When you’re ready to cook them, there’s no need to thaw; just drop them directly into boiling water for a quick meal.

What sauces pair well with Butternut Squash Gnocchi?

Butternut Squash Gnocchi pairs well with various sauces that complement its sweet flavor. A classic choice is sage brown butter, where melted butter is infused with fresh sage leaves for an aromatic finish. creamy corn chowder Alternatively, a creamy Alfredo sauce or a simple garlic olive oil can enhance the dish without overpowering it. For a fresher taste, consider using pesto or marinara sauce as well.

Conclusion for Butternut Squash Gnocchi:

In summary, Butternut Squash Gnocchi offers a unique twist on classic Italian cuisine. It combines the sweetness of roasted squash with simple ingredients to create delicious dumplings that are easy to prepare at home. Whether you choose to serve them with rich sauces or enjoy them plain, this dish brings warmth and comfort to any meal. Don’t hesitate to try freezing extras for quick weeknight dinners! Enjoy your culinary adventure!

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Butternut Squash Gnocchi

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• Author: Hannah
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Butternut squash gnocchi is a delightful dish that combines the sweetness of roasted butternut squash with tender, pillowy dumplings. This recipe is perfect for cozy dinners and gatherings, offering a comforting balance of flavors that will impress family and friends. Easy to prepare yet sophisticated enough for special occasions, this gnocchi will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups roasted butternut squash (approximately 1 medium squash)
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1 tsp salt
• ¼ tsp nutmeg
• For Sage Butter Sauce: 4 tbsp unsalted butter, 10 fresh sage leaves

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the butternut squash in half, scoop out seeds, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, and roast cut-side down on a baking sheet for 30-40 minutes until tender.
2. Once cooled, scoop out the flesh into a bowl and mash until smooth. Mix in egg yolk, salt, nutmeg, and gradually add flour until you form a soft dough.
3. On a floured surface, roll the dough into ropes about half an inch thick and cut into bite-sized pieces. Use a fork to create ridges on each piece.
4. Boil salted water in a large pot. Add gnocchi gently; cook until they float to the surface (about 2-3 minutes). Remove with a slotted spoon.
5. In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and add sage leaves until fragrant. Drizzle sauce over cooked gnocchi and serve immediately.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: Substitute butternut squash with sweet potatoes or add herbs like thyme for variations. For vegan options, replace egg yolk with aquafaba. To store leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.