Craving a luxurious yet quick dinner? Look no further than this Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi – a dish that brings gourmet comfort to your table in just 20 minutes. This recipe is a delightful fusion of tender gnocchi bathed in a rich, velvety butternut squash sauce, making it the perfect answer to those busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s an ideal recipe for anyone looking to enjoy the heartwarming flavors of autumn in a simple, fuss-free manner. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this easy-to-follow recipe promises a delicious outcome every time.
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Key Ingredients for Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi
To create this incredible Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi, you’ll need a few simple yet impactful ingredients:
- 1 (16-ounce) package potato gnocchi: Store-bought works perfectly for speed and convenience.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing and adding a rich base.
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced: Provides a sweet aromatic foundation.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for depth of flavor.
- 1 (15-ounce) can pure pumpkin puree (or 1 ½ cups homemade butternut squash puree): The star of our creamy sauce, bringing natural sweetness and body. Canned pumpkin is a fantastic shortcut!
- 1 cup vegetable broth: To thin the sauce and add savory notes.
- ½ cup unsweetened almond milk (or heavy cream for a richer sauce): Adds to the creaminess without being too heavy; use cream for a more indulgent experience.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving: For that irresistible salty, umami kick.
- 1 teaspoon dried sage: Complements the butternut squash beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme: Another herb that pairs wonderfully with autumn flavors.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning.
- Optional garnishes: Fresh sage leaves, toasted pumpkin seeds, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
How to Make Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi
Get ready to whip up a storm in record time! This Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi recipe is astonishingly easy, delivering a decadent, comforting meal in just 20 minutes. Its secret lies in the harmonious blend of soft gnocchi and a luscious, herb-infused butternut squash sauce that clings perfectly to every pillow-soft bite. This dish is designed for maximum flavor with minimal effort, ensuring a delicious and satisfying experience even on your busiest days.
● Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Cook the Gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the potato gnocchi and cook according to package directions, typically 2-3 minutes, or until the gnocchi float to the surface. Drain well and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: While the gnocchi cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or deep pan over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent.
- Add Garlic and Herbs: Stir in the minced garlic, dried sage, and dried thyme. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Build the Sauce: Pour in the pumpkin puree (or butternut squash puree) and vegetable broth. Whisk well to combine, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
- Achieve Creaminess: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the almond milk (or heavy cream) and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Season and Combine: Season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Add the cooked, drained gnocchi to the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat all the gnocchi evenly.
- Serve: Divide the Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi among serving plates. Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese, fresh sage leaves, or toasted pumpkin seeds if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi
You are going to absolutely adore this Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi because it’s a harmonious blend of quick convenience and gourmet flavor. The main highlight is undoubtedly the lusciously smooth butternut squash sauce, which envelops each pillowy gnocchi with its sweet, savory, and herbaceous notes. Making this at home is a brilliant cost-saver, transforming a typically restaurant-priced meal into an affordable luxury. The combination of earthy sage, aromatic thyme, and the nutty richness of Parmesan truly elevates this dish, making every forkful a delightful experience.
If you enjoy wholesome, comforting meals, you might also like our “One-Pan Lemon Herb Chicken and Roasted Vegetables” for another easy weeknight winner. So, what are you waiting for? Dive into the warmth and flavor of this incredible gnocchi and make it tonight!
What to Serve Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi With
This Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi is hearty and flavorful enough to stand on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a variety of complementary dishes to create a more complete meal.
- Crisp Green Salad: A simple, lightly dressed green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the gnocchi. Think mixed greens, a few cherry tomatoes, and a light lemon-herb dressing.
- Garlic Bread or Crusty Ciabatta: Perfect for soaking up every last drop of that delicious creamy sauce. You can even make your own quick garlic bread by toasting baguette slices with butter, garlic powder, and fresh parsley.
- Simple Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts offer a nice textural contrast and a boost of nutrients. Toss them with some olive oil, salt, and pepper and roast until tender-crisp.
- Grilled Chicken or Pork Tenderloin: For a protein-packed meal, a simply seasoned grilled chicken breast or a pan-seared pork tenderloin can be an excellent accompaniment without overpowering the gnocchi’s flavors.
- White Wine: A dry, crisp white wine such as a Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc would complement the creamy, savory flavors without being too heavy.
Top Tips for Perfecting Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi
Achieving the perfect Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi is easier than you think, especially with these insider tips:
- Don’t Overcook the Gnocchi: Store-bought gnocchi cooks very quickly. As soon as they float to the surface, they are done. Overcooked gnocchi can become gummy and lose their delicate texture. Have your sauce ready to go, so you can transfer the gnocchi directly into it.
- Use High-Quality Puree: While canned pumpkin puree is a convenient go-to, ensure it’s 100% pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling (which contains added sugar and spices). If you have time, making your own butternut squash puree from roasted squash will yield an even richer, sweeter flavor profile.
- Adjust Creaminess: The recipe calls for unsweetened almond milk for a lighter creaminess, but feel free to swap it for heavy cream or half-and-half if you desire a more indulgent, thicker sauce. You can also adjust the amount to get your desired consistency.
- Season as You Go: Taste your sauce frequently! Add salt and pepper throughout the process to build layers of flavor. Don’t be afraid to add a pinch more dried sage or thyme if you feel it needs more herbaceousness. A tiny pinch of nutmeg can also enhance the squash flavor.
- Freshly Grated Parmesan is King: Pre-shredded Parmesan often contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce gritty. Freshly grated Parmesan melts smoother and provides a superior, more authentic flavor.
- Toasting Gnocchi (Optional): For an extra layer of texture, after boiling and draining, you can lightly pan-fry the gnocchi in a little olive oil or butter until golden brown and slightly crispy before adding them to the sauce. This adds a delightful chewiness.
- Common Mistake: Rushing the Aromatics: Don’t rush the initial sauté of the onion and garlic. Allowing the onion to soften and become translucent and the garlic to become fragrant builds the crucial flavor base for your sauce. Burnt garlic, however, will turn bitter, so keep an eye on it.
- Don’t Be Afraid to Substitute: If you don’t have butternut squash, other winter squashes like acorn or even sweet potato can work. Dairy-free milk alternatives can easily be used to keep it vegan or lactose-free.
Storing and Reheating Tips
To ensure your Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi remains delicious even as leftovers, proper storage and reheating are key:
Storing Leftovers:
- Refrigeration: Allow the gnocchi to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The sauce may thicken slightly upon chilling, which is normal.
- Freezing: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftover gnocchi. Place the cooled gnocchi in a freezer-safe airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. For best results, freeze in individual portions to make reheating easier. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Note that the gnocchi texture might become a little softer after freezing and thawing.
Reheating Tips:
- From Refrigerator:
- Stovetop: The best method! Add the gnocchi to a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of vegetable broth, milk, or even water (1-2 tablespoons per serving) to help loosen the sauce and prevent it from drying out. Stir gently and heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Microwave: For a quick reheat, place a portion in a microwave-safe dish. Add a small splash of liquid (broth or milk). Cover loosely and microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can make the gnocchi tough.
- From Freezer:
- Thawing First: For best results, thaw frozen gnocchi in the refrigerator overnight. Then reheat using the stovetop or microwave method as described above, adding a bit more liquid as needed since the sauce will likely be thicker.
- Direct from Frozen (Stovetop): You can technically reheat from frozen directly on the stovetop, but it will take longer. Place the frozen gnocchi in a skillet with a good splash of liquid (1/4 cup or more depending on quantity). Cover and cook over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until thawed and heated through. You might need to break up clumps gently.
Final Thoughts
There you have it – your blueprint for the most irresistible and remarkably fast Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi. This dish isn’t just a recipe; it’s a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly extraordinary. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner, a dish to impress without the stress, or simply a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of autumn, this gnocchi delivers on all fronts. It’s comforting, creamy, and packed with heartwarming flavors, proving that gourmet taste doesn’t have to require hours in the kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, get cooking, and prepare to fall in love with your new favorite 20-minute meal!
try also :
- Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes
- Crockpot Beef Fajitas
- Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake
- Cheesy Pumpkin Stuffed Pretzel Bites
- Find more in Pinterest
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Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi FAQs
Q1: Can I use fresh butternut squash instead of canned puree?
A1: Absolutely! Fresh butternut squash puree will give an even richer flavor. To make it, halve a small butternut squash, scoop out the seeds, roast in the oven at 400°F (200°C) until very tender (about 30-40 minutes), scoop out the flesh, and blend until smooth. Use 1 ½ cups for this recipe.
Q2: Is this recipe vegetarian/vegan?
A2: This recipe is vegetarian. To make it suitable for a vegan diet, ensure your gnocchi is egg-free (many store-bought brands are), use unsweetened almond milk (or another plant-based milk), and substitute the Parmesan cheese with a dairy-free Parmesan alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Q3: Can I add protein to this dish?
A3: Yes! Cooked shredded chicken, pan-seared shrimp, or even toasted chickpeas would make excellent additions to boost the protein content and make it an even more substantial meal. Add them in step 6 when you combine the gnocchi with the sauce.
Q4: What if my sauce is too thick or too thin?
A4: If your sauce is too thick, gradually add more vegetable broth or milk, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer gently on low heat for a few extra minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow it to reduce and thicken slightly. The Parmesan cheese will also help thicken it.
Q5: Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
A5: Yes, the sauce can be made 1-2 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, gently reheat the sauce on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or milk if needed to loosen it. Cook the gnocchi just before serving and toss it with the warmed sauce.