The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

If you’re looking for a dish that warms your heart and fills your belly, then you must try The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi! This comforting recipe is a family favorite in my home. The sweet, roasted butternut squash paired with fragrant garlic creates a sauce that’s simply divine. Not only does it taste amazing, but it also brings everyone together around the table, making it perfect for both busy weeknights and special family gatherings.

What makes this dish even better is how easy it is to prepare. You’ll find that even on the most hectic days, this recipe can be whipped up with minimal fuss. So grab your apron, and let’s create something delicious!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With straightforward steps, you’ll have dinner on the table in no time.
• Family-friendly: Even picky eaters will love the creamy texture and delightful flavors.
• Comforting and cozy: This dish is perfect for chilly evenings when you crave something warm and hearty.
• Great for meal prep: Make a big batch ahead of time, and enjoy leftovers throughout the week!
• Deliciously healthy: Packed with wholesome ingredients, it’s a guilt-free indulgence.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that will transform into a delicious meal. You probably have most of these things in your pantry already!

For the Gnocchi

• 500 g butternut squash (peeled and chopped into 2.5 cm cubes)
• 3 sprigs rosemary (leaves picked and finely chopped)
• 4 cloves garlic (peeled)
• 1 yellow onion (finely sliced)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 500 g shelf-stable gnocchi
• 50 g parmesan (grated)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 30 g walnuts (roughly chopped (2 tablespoons))
• 75 ml milk
• 50 g turkey strips or turkey slices (chopped)
• 1 ball of fresh mozzarella (torn into 4-6 pieces)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up according to your taste or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using shredded chicken or sautéed mushrooms instead of turkey for a different twist.
• Add greens: Toss in some spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for extra nutrients.
• Experiment with cheese: If mozzarella isn’t your favorite, feel free to use gouda or cheddar for a unique flavor.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or fresh chili if you like a bit of heat in your dishes.

How to Make The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 180ºC. This step is crucial as it gets everything ready for roasting those lovely vegetables.

Step 2: Prepare the Squash and Vegetables

Place the butternut squash cubes, sliced onion, and peeled garlic on a baking tray. Sprinkle with rosemary, then drizzle with olive oil. Toss everything together until well coated. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness while infusing them with flavor!

Step 3: Roast the Vegetables

Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the onions are tender and golden, and the squash is soft. This step builds depth in flavor, which makes our sauce truly special.

Step 4: Make the Purée

Transfer those beautiful roasted veggies to a food processor or blender. Blend until smooth! If needed, add just a touch of water to achieve that thick, velvety purée we’re after. This luscious sauce will be the heart of our dish.

Step 5: Cook the Turkey Strips

In a medium frying pan with high sides, heat 5 ml (1 teaspoon) of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add your turkey strips or slices and fry until crispy. Crispy bits add texture to our creamy gnocchi — trust me; they make all the difference!

Step 6: Prepare the Gnocchi

Spoon that rich butternut squash purée back into the frying pan. Add in 75 ml of water and milk before stirring in your gnocchi. Let it gently simmer uncovered for about 8-10 minutes until everything is tender and well combined.

Step 7: Finish the Sauce

Stir in grated parmesan cheese along with lemon juice — this brightens up all those flavors beautifully! Don’t forget to season to taste and add half of those crispy turkey strips along with some reserved fat from earlier.

Step 8: Melt That Mozzarella

Top off your gnocchi masterpiece with torn pieces of fresh mozzarella. Now slide that pan under the grill (broiler) for about 5 minutes until all melty perfection occurs!

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Finally, finish off by topping with any leftover turkey strips, cracked black pepper, walnuts, and fresh parsley if you have some on hand. Serve warm and watch everyone fall in love at first bite!

Enjoy making The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi! It’s sure to become a cherished favorite in your home just as it has in mine!

Pro Tips for Making The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Creating the perfect butternut squash gnocchi is easier than you think! Here are some helpful tips to elevate your dish to new heights.

• Use fresh squash: Opting for fresh butternut squash rather than frozen will enhance the flavor and texture of your gnocchi, giving it a more authentic taste.
• Don’t skip roasting: Roasting the squash and garlic caramelizes their natural sugars, resulting in a deeper, richer flavor that will make your sauce irresistible.
• Adjust water carefully: When blending the roasted vegetables into a purée, add just enough water to achieve a thick consistency. This ensures your sauce is creamy without being too runny.
• Cook gnocchi gently: Simmering the gnocchi slowly allows them to absorb the flavors from the sauce and prevents them from becoming mushy or overcooked.
• Taste as you go: Always taste your sauce before serving! Adjusting seasonings like salt, pepper, and lemon juice can make all the difference in elevating the overall flavor.

How to Serve The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Presenting your butternut squash gnocchi beautifully can make it even more enjoyable! Here are some delightful ideas to serve this dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness that balances the richness of the dish.
• Cracked black pepper: A sprinkle of cracked black pepper not only enhances flavor but also adds a delightful crunch and visual appeal.
• Toasted walnuts: Adding extra toasted walnuts on top not only boosts texture but also provides a nutty richness that complements the sweet squash.

Side Dishes

• Simple arugula salad: A light salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette adds brightness and contrasts nicely with the creamy gnocchi.
• Garlic bread: Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce, making every bite satisfying and delicious.
• Steamed broccoli: The slight bitterness of steamed broccoli pairs well with the sweetness of the butternut squash, creating a balanced plate.
• Roasted Brussels sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts add depth and texture alongside your comforting gnocchi while providing an additional veggie boost.

Now you’re ready to impress friends and family with The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi! Enjoy this cozy meal that’s sure to warm hearts.

Make Ahead and Storage

This butternut squash gnocchi is perfect for meal prep! Whether you’re planning for a busy week or just want to enjoy this comforting dish later, you can easily store and reheat it without sacrificing flavor.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow any leftovers to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer the gnocchi to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Portion out the gnocchi into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Remove as much air as possible before sealing.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
• To thaw, place in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• For refrigerated gnocchi, warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or milk if needed.
• For frozen gnocchi, you can either thaw it first or directly heat it in a skillet with a bit of oil until heated through.

FAQs

If you have questions about making The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi, read on!

Can I use fresh gnocchi instead of shelf-stable?

Absolutely! Fresh gnocchi can be used in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to package instructions.

What makes The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi so special?

The combination of roasted butternut squash with garlic and fresh herbs creates an incredibly rich and flavorful sauce that elevates this dish beyond your average gnocchi.

Can I make The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi vegan?

Yes! To make this dish vegan, replace the milk with a plant-based alternative and omit the parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese substitute.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi as much as I do! This recipe brings warmth and comfort to any dinner table, making it a delightful choice for family gatherings or a cozy night in. Don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors and toppings; cooking is all about having fun in the kitchen! Enjoy every bite!