Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage is a comforting dish that combines pillowy gnocchi with sweet, smooth butternut squash and savory sausage bits. The cream sauce ties everything together in a way that feels rich but still approachable, making it a perfect cozy meal for any night of the week.
I love how the gnocchi soak up the creamy sauce, and the little bursts of flavor from the browned sausage add just the right amount of heartiness. Whenever I make this, I like to cook the sausage until it’s nice and crispy—it adds a great texture contrast that keeps each bite interesting.
One of my favorite ways to enjoy this dish is with a simple green salad on the side and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top. It’s the kind of meal that feels special without being difficult, so it’s a go-to for when I want something tasty and satisfying but don’t want to spend all evening in the kitchen.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butternut Squash Gnocchi: These bring a gentle sweetness and soft texture. If you can’t find butternut squash gnocchi, regular potato gnocchi works well too. For a lighter option, try cauliflower gnocchi.
Italian Sausage: Adds warmth and spice. You can substitute with turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner dish, or use vegetarian sausage if preferred. Removing the casing helps the sausage brown better.
Heavy Cream & Parmesan: These create the rich, creamy sauce. If you want a lighter sauce, swap heavy cream with half-and-half or a creamy plant-based milk. Nutritional yeast can also replace Parmesan for a cheesy flavor.
Herbs (Sage & Thyme): Fresh herbs add brightness and depth. If you only have dried, use about one third of the amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated. Rosemary can be a nice alternative herb here.
How Do I Get the Sausage Perfectly Crispy and Flavorful?
Cooking sausage well is key for great taste and texture in this dish. Here’s what works best:
- Heat oil over medium heat before adding sausage. This prevents sticking and encourages browning.
- Break the sausage into small pieces so it cooks evenly.
- Cook without stirring too much at first, so the sausage can form a crispy crust.
- Once browned, use a slotted spoon to remove the sausage, leaving the flavorful fat in the pan to cook the sauce.
- This fat adds depth to the dish, so don’t skip this step!
These tips help you get that tasty browned sausage bite in every spoonful—plus a luscious sauce that’s full of flavor.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – I recommend using a non-stick or cast-iron skillet to get a nice sear on the sausage and evenly cook the sauce.
- Slotted spoon – it helps to remove the cooked sausage without drenching the sauce in fat.
- Pot for boiling gnocchi – a big pot makes it easy to cook the gnocchi until they float.
- Measuring cups and spoons – essential for your cream, cheese, and herbs.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – great for stirring and combining everything smoothly.
- Grater – for freshly grated Parmesan cheese and optional zesting of herbs or lemon for added flavor.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use spicy chorizo or ground turkey instead of Italian sausage for different flavors and textures.
- Stir in sautéed spinach, kale, or roasted vegetables for more color and nutrients.
- Add a splash of white wine to the sauce after adding the garlic and shallots for an extra layer of flavor.
- Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar for brightness and acidity.
Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi With Sausage
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 package (about 1 lb) refrigerated or fresh butternut squash gnocchi
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- ½ teaspoon dried sage or 1 teaspoon fresh sage, chopped
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme or 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh sage leaves and thyme sprigs for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook, so you’ll have a delicious, creamy meal ready in about 25 minutes total. It’s a quick and satisfying dish perfect for weeknights when you want something cozy and easy.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Sausage:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving the flavorful fat in the pan for the sauce.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and butter. When melted, stir in minced garlic and finely chopped shallot. Sauté for about 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant and translucent, being careful not to burn them.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Pour the heavy cream into the skillet with the garlic and shallots. Stir and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add Parmesan cheese, sage, and thyme. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently until the sauce thickens a bit. Taste and season with salt and pepper.
4. Cook the Gnocchi:
While making the sauce, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 2 to 3 minutes until they float to the surface. Drain well.
5. Combine Everything:
Add the drained gnocchi and cooked sausage back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat the gnocchi and sausage well in the creamy sauce. Cook together for another 2 to 3 minutes so the flavors blend and the sausage crisps a little.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Remove from heat. Garnish with fresh sage leaves, thyme sprigs, and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if you like. Serve immediately while warm and creamy for the best taste.
Can I Use Frozen Gnocchi for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just thaw the frozen gnocchi beforehand or cook them a little longer until they float to the surface. Be sure to drain well before adding to the sauce to prevent excess water.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
You can skip the sausage and add sautéed mushrooms or crispy browned tofu for a similar savory element. Use vegetable broth or plant-based cream to keep it vegetarian.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the sausage a day ahead. Reheat gently on the stove and toss in freshly cooked gnocchi before serving for the best texture.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of cream or water if the sauce has thickened too much.
