Butternut Squash Gnocchi Dish: A Delicious and Easy Recipe to Try

Butternut squash gnocchi is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, this recipe becomes a favorite in my kitchen, evoking memories of family gatherings and cozy evenings. Originating from Italy, gnocchi has a rich history, traditionally made with potatoes, but the addition of butternut squash adds a unique twist that enhances both flavor and nutrition. People love this dish not only for its velvety texture and sweet, nutty taste but also for its convenience; it can be prepared in advance and quickly cooked for a satisfying meal. Join me as we explore the wonderful world of butternut squash gnocchi, a dish that is sure to impress your family and friends!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 pounds)
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• 2 to 2.5 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• Fresh sage leaves (for garnish)
• Extra Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Preparing the Butternut Squash

First things first, we need to prepare the butternut squash. This is the star of our gnocchi, so let’s give it the attention it deserves!

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Carefully slice the butternut squash in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and stringy bits from the center.
3. Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This helps to roast it evenly and prevents sticking.
4. Roast the squash in the preheated oven for about 40-50 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and easily pierced with a fork.
5. Once done, remove the squash from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, scoop out the flesh into a mixing bowl. Discard the skin.

Making the Gnocchi Dough

Now that we have our roasted butternut squash, it’s time to turn it into a delicious gnocchi dough!

1. Add the ricotta cheese, egg, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg to the bowl with the butternut squash. Mix everything together until well combined.
2. Gradually add 2 cups of all-purpose flour to the mixture. Start mixing with a fork or your hands until a dough begins to form. If the dough is too sticky, add more flour, a little at a time, until it’s manageable but still soft.
3. Once the dough comes together, turn it out onto a floured surface. Knead it gently for about 1-2 minutes, just until it’s smooth. Be careful not to over-knead, as this can make the gnocchi tough.
4. Divide the dough into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a long rope, about 1/2 inch in diameter. Use a bench scraper or knife to cut the rope into 1-inch pieces.
5. To shape the gnocchi, you can use a fork. Gently press each piece against the tines of the fork to create ridges, which will help hold the sauce later. Place the shaped gnocchi on a floured baking sheet and repeat with the remaining dough.

Cooking the Gnocchi

Now that our gnocchi is shaped and ready, it’s time to cook them! This part is quick and easy.

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
2. Once the water is boiling, carefully drop the gnocchi into the pot. Do this in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
3. Cook the gnocchi for about 2-3 minutes, or until they float to the surface. This indicates they are done. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the pot and transfer them to a plate.
4. Repeat the cooking process with the remaining gnocchi.

Preparing the Sauce

While the gnocchi is cooking, let’s whip up a simple yet flavorful sauce to complement our dish.

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat.
2. Add the fresh sage leaves to the skillet and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, until they become crispy and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them!
3. Once the sage is ready, add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet. Gently toss them in the

   Conclusion:

   In wrapping up this delightful journey through the Butternut Squash Gnocchi dish, I can confidently say that this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their culinary repertoire. The combination of the sweet, nutty flavor of butternut squash with the tender, pillowy gnocchi creates a comforting meal that is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an impressive dish for entertaining guests. For serving suggestions, consider pairing your gnocchi with a sage brown butter sauce for a rich, aromatic experience, or toss it with a light garlic and olive oil dressing for a fresher take. You can also add sautéed greens like spinach or kale for an extra nutritional boost, or sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or grated Parmesan cheese on top for added texture and flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, try incorporating different herbs or spices to customize the dish to your liking. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this Butternut Squash Gnocchi recipe a try. I promise you won’t be disappointed! And once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, variations, or even photos of your creation. Let’s celebrate the joy of cooking together! Happy gnocchi-making! Print
   

   Butternut Squash Gnocchi Dish: A Delicious and Easy Recipe to Try

   ---

   • Author: Dottie
   • Total Time: 50 minutes
   • Yield: 4 servings

   Print Recipe

   Pin Recipe

   Description

   This Butternut Squash Gnocchi features tender gnocchi made from roasted butternut squash and ricotta cheese, tossed in a simple sage and butter sauce. It’s a cozy and flavorful twist on a classic Italian dish, perfect for a comforting dinner.

   ---

   Ingredients

   • Butternut squash
   • Ricotta cheese
   • Flour
   • Egg
   • Salt
   • Nutmeg
   • Butter
   • Fresh sage leaves
   • Parmesan cheese

   ---

   Instructions

   1. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the surface.
   2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat and add fresh sage leaves.
   3. Once the sage is crispy, add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet.
   4. Toss the gnocchi in the sage butter sauce to coat evenly.
   5. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to allow the gnocchi to absorb some of the flavors.
   6. Serve the gnocchi hot, garnished with fresh sage leaves and extra Parmesan cheese.

   Notes

   • For a richer flavor, you can add garlic to the sauce while sautéing the sage.
   • Feel free to adjust the amount of nutmeg according to your taste preference.
   • Store any leftover gnocchi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

   • Prep Time: 20 minutes
   • Cook Time: 30 minutes