Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage – Easy Skillet Recipe

There’s something irresistible about the way pillowy gnocchi soak up a velvety sauce, and this Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage takes that indulgence to the next level. This cozy, one-pan dinner is perfect for chilly fall evenings — rich, flavorful, and done in just 40 minutes. Combining the sweetness of butternut squash, the savory punch of Italian sausage, and the earthy aroma of herbs like sage and thyme, this recipe delivers comfort in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage

This creamy butternut squash gnocchi recipe is the perfect marriage of convenience and indulgence. Ready in under an hour, it’s a true weeknight savior that doesn’t skimp on flavor. You don’t even need to boil the gnocchi separately — everything simmers together in one skillet. The combination of spicy sausage and creamy, naturally sweet butternut squash creates a luxurious sauce without needing cheese, making it surprisingly light for how comforting it tastes.

What You’ll Need: Flavorful Ingredients That Shine

• Italian Sausage: Adds savory depth and a touch of heat. Opt for spicy, sweet, or mild depending on your taste.
• Olive Oil: Helps brown the sausage and infuse the dish with richness.
• Potato Gnocchi: Tender pillows that absorb the creamy sauce beautifully — no pre-boiling required.
• Heavy Cream: Provides the silky base for the sauce.
• Chicken Broth: Adds umami and helps the gnocchi cook evenly.
• Butternut Squash Puree: The sweet, creamy star that makes the sauce uniquely comforting.
• Garlic: Brings aromatic depth and balances the richness.
• Fresh Sage: Earthy and fragrant, it pairs beautifully with squash.
• Fresh Thyme: Bright and slightly minty, it elevates the overall flavor.
• Salt & Coarse Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning and contrast.

Ingredient Substitutions to Fit Every Kitchen

• Vegetarian Swap: Use plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms for a meatless option without losing that umami flavor.
• Dairy-Free Option: Replace heavy cream with unsweetened oat cream or coconut cream for a creamy texture that fits your dietary needs.
• No Fresh Herbs?: Substitute with ½ teaspoon dried sage and ½ teaspoon dried thyme.
• No Gnocchi?: Use tortellini or short pasta like orecchiette, but adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly.
• Low-Sodium Broth: If you’re watching your salt intake, go for low-sodium chicken broth and adjust seasoning at the end.

How to Make Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage

1. Brown the Sausage
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Remove sausage from casings and slice. Cook sausage for about 4 minutes on one side without stirring to develop a browned crust. Flip and cook 2 more minutes.
2. Add Gnocchi and Liquids
   Add uncooked potato gnocchi, heavy cream, and chicken broth directly into the pan. Stir well to combine and bring to a boil.
3. Simmer and Cook Gnocchi
   Cover with a lid and let it simmer on medium heat for about 5 minutes. The gnocchi will soften and cook through in the sauce.
4. Stir in Squash and Garlic
   Add the prepared butternut squash puree and minced garlic. Reduce heat to low-medium and stir until the sauce is thick and the garlic has mellowed — about 3 more minutes.
5. Finish with Herbs and Seasoning
   Stir in half of the chopped sage and thyme. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Cook longer if you prefer a thicker sauce.
6. Serve with Herb Garnish
   Plate and top with the remaining fresh sage and thyme for added aroma and visual appeal.

Tips to Perfect Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage

• No Need to Pre-Boil Gnocchi: Let the gnocchi cook right in the sauce to absorb maximum flavor.
• Roast Squash Ahead of Time: Preparing the puree in advance cuts cook time and enhances the dish’s sweetness.
• Control Sauce Thickness: Simmer longer for a thicker consistency or add a splash of cream to loosen it when reheating.
• Don’t Skip the Herbs: Fresh thyme and sage are essential for balancing the sweet and savory notes.
• Season Last: Sausage can be salty — taste before adding additional salt.

Serving Ideas & Creative Variations

• Pair with Bread: Serve with crusty garlic bread, Italian ciabatta, or rosemary focaccia to soak up the sauce.
• Add Greens: Stir in baby spinach or kale in the last minute of cooking for added nutrition.
• Make It Spicy: Boost the heat by adding red pepper flakes or hot Italian sausage.
• Gluten-Free? Use gluten-free gnocchi for a celiac-friendly option.
• Make Ahead: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to revive the texture.

The Autumn Star: Why Butternut Squash is a Seasonal Favorite

Butternut squash isn’t just a delicious base for this creamy gnocchi recipe — it’s also packed with health benefits. Rich in vitamin A, fiber, and antioxidants, it supports eye health and immune function. Its natural sweetness pairs well with savory sausage and herbs, making it a go-to ingredient for fall recipes like this one. Roasting the squash intensifies its flavor and ensures a smooth, velvety puree that’s perfect for sauces, soups, or baking.

Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage is the kind of dish that turns an ordinary weeknight into something special. It’s warm, comforting, and deeply satisfying — the perfect expression of fall flavors in one skillet. Whether you’re serving guests or simply indulging in a quiet dinner at home, this recipe is sure to become a seasonal favorite.

Conclusion

Whether you’re craving something warm and satisfying on a chilly evening or looking for a unique recipe to serve at your next fall gathering, this Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage is a winning choice. It’s rich without being heavy, indulgent without being complicated, and packed with the cozy flavors of autumn. The ease of preparation and the depth of flavor make it a go-to comfort food for weeknights or special occasions alike. With its perfect balance of creamy, savory, and subtly sweet notes, this one-skillet wonder deserves a place in your seasonal recipe rotation.

FAQ About Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage

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