Can you make butternut squash gnocchi ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep homemade gnocchi a day ahead and store it on a floured tray in the fridge or freeze it for longer storage. If you're using store-bought gnocchi, keep it sealed until ready to cook. The sausage can also be cooked and refrigerated a day in advance, then reheated while you finish the dish.

What’s the best sausage to use for butternut squash gnocchi?

Italian sausage, either mild or spicy, pairs beautifully with the sweet notes of the butternut squash. Pork sausage brings the most flavor, but chicken or turkey sausage can work well too. Avoid pre-cooked links unless chopped very finely, as they won't blend into the sauce as smoothly.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or broth to bring the sauce back to life. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between to keep the gnocchi from getting rubbery.

Can I use store-bought gnocchi instead?

Absolutely. In fact, many versions of butternut squash gnocchi in grocery stores cook up beautifully in this recipe. Just make sure to pan-fry them until golden before adding the sauce for the best texture. If using frozen, no need to thaw, just extend the cook time slightly.

Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage: Creamy & Easy Comfort Dinner

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb butternut squash gnocchi (fresh or frozen)

½ lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)

1 shallot or small onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tbsp fresh sage, chopped

⅓ cup heavy cream

⅓ cup grated Parmesan

Salt and black pepper, to taste

1 tbsp olive oil or butter

Optional: red pepper flakes, spinach or kale, chicken broth

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and brown the sausage until fully cooked. Remove and set aside.

2. In the same skillet, sauté diced shallot until soft. Add garlic and sage; cook until fragrant.

3. Add gnocchi directly to the pan. Cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes to brown, then stir and repeat.

4. Return sausage to the skillet. Pour in cream and stir gently. Simmer for 3-4 minutes.

5. Add Parmesan and stir until melted. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes.

6. If using greens, stir them in and cook just until wilted.

7. Serve hot with extra cheese and herbs on top.

Notes

Use frozen gnocchi straight from the freezer; no need to thaw.

Swap sausage with mushrooms or white beans for a vegetarian version.

Use half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free variation.

Author: Chef Saly
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: Italian American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 460
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 720mg
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 14g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 16g
Cholesterol: 55mg