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Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage, Sage, and Thyme Recipe

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4 from 84 reviews

This creamy butternut squash gnocchi recipe features tender potato gnocchi cooked alongside savory Italian sausage and a rich sauce made from heavy cream, chicken broth, and smooth butternut squash puree. Fresh sage and thyme add aromatic depth, making it a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for a cozy dinner.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Sausage and Gnocchi

  • 12 oz Italian sausage (casings removed; about 3 sausage links)
  • 10 oz potato gnocchi
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Sauce and Seasoning

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup butternut squash puree
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh sage (chopped, divided)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme (divided)
  • Salt (to taste)
  • Coarsely ground black pepper (to taste)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the sausage: Remove the sausage from casings and slice them into pieces, prepping them for cooking.
  2. Heat the oil: In a large, high-sided skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat to prepare for browning the sausage.
  3. Brown the sausage: Add the sliced sausage to the skillet and cook over medium heat for about 4 minutes without stirring to develop a good sear. Flip the slices and cook for an additional 2 minutes until browned on both sides.
  4. Add gnocchi and liquids: Into the skillet with the sausage, add the uncooked potato gnocchi, heavy cream, and chicken broth. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Cover the skillet with a lid and allow the gnocchi to cook for about 5 minutes while the sauce simmers.
  5. Incorporate squash and garlic: Add the butternut squash puree and minced garlic to the pan. Bring the mixture back to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to low-medium heat. Stir thoroughly and cook for about 3 or more minutes until the gnocchi are fully cooked, garlic is softened, and the sauce thickens to your liking.
  6. Season with herbs: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in half of the fresh sage and half of the fresh thyme. Season with salt and coarsely ground black pepper to taste, adjusting salt carefully since the sausage may already add saltiness.
  7. Serve and garnish: When plating, sprinkle the remaining fresh sage and thyme over the top for a fresh, aromatic garnish.

Notes

  • Adjust salt carefully as the sausage may contribute sufficient saltiness.
  • For a thicker sauce, cook the mixture a few minutes longer after adding the butternut squash puree and garlic.
  • Use fresh sage and thyme to get the best aromatic flavor.
  • Can be served as a hearty main course for 4 people.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian