The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms the heart and fills the belly, you’ve come to the right place! The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi is one of those dishes that instantly makes your home feel welcoming. With its creamy sauce made from roasted butternut squash and garlic, this gnocchi is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. It’s not just delicious; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl!

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, this recipe brings everyone together. Plus, it’s simple enough to whip up after a long day while still feeling special enough for a festive occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have dinner on the table in no time!
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy texture and rich flavors.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can roast the vegetables in advance and just combine everything when you’re ready to eat.
• Irresistible flavor: The combination of roasted squash, garlic, and melted mozzarella creates a symphony of taste that’s hard to resist.
• Nutritious goodness: Packed with wholesome ingredients, this dish is both satisfying and nourishing.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple ingredients is part of the fun! They are wholesome and easy to find, making this recipe approachable for anyone. Here’s what you’ll need:

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))

For the Sauce

• 75 ml milk
• 50 g turkey strips or turkey slices (chopped)
• 1 ball of fresh mozzarella (torn into 4-6 pieces)

Variations

The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients based on what you love or have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using cooked chicken or even chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.
• Add some greens: Toss in some spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for an extra nutrient boost.
• Spice it up: Add chili flakes or your favorite spices to give it a kick!
• Change up the cheese: If mozzarella isn’t your favorite, try using feta or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.

How to Make The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 180ºC. This ensures that when we roast our veggies, they cook evenly and develop that lovely caramelized flavor we all adore.

Step 2: Prepare the Squash and Vegetables

Place those butternut squash cubes, sliced onion, and peeled garlic on a baking tray. Sprinkle them with rosemary and drizzle with olive oil. This step is important because roasting brings out their natural sweetness and creates depth in flavor.

Step 3: Roast the Vegetables

Pop the tray into your preheated oven for about 30 minutes. Keep an eye on them until the onions are tender and golden brown while the squash becomes soft. This roasting time allows all those lovely flavors to meld together beautifully!

Step 4: Make the Purée

Once roasted, transfer those veggies to a food processor or blender. Blend until smooth—add a splash of water if needed. Achieving a thick, creamy purée elevates this dish by creating an irresistible sauce!

Step 5: Cook Your Turkey Strips

In a medium frying pan with high sides, heat a teaspoon of olive oil over medium heat. Fry those turkey strips until crispy; this adds texture to our dish! Once done, set them aside in a small bowl.

Step 6: Prepare the Gnocchi

Spoon your beautiful butternut squash purée back into that same frying pan. Stir in some water and milk before adding in your gnocchi. Let it gently simmer uncovered for about 8-10 minutes until everything is tender—this step makes sure each gnocchi piece absorbs all that deliciousness!

Step 7: Finish the Sauce

Stir in grated parmesan cheese along with fresh lemon juice for brightness! Taste as you go, adjusting seasoning if needed. Add half of those crispy turkey strips back into the pan along with some reserved fat from earlier—this enhances flavor!

Step 8: Melt Your Mozzarella

Now comes my favorite part! Place torn mozzarella pieces on top of your gnocchi creation and pop it under the grill (broiler) for about 5 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. Just imagine how amazing that will look!

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

To finish off this masterpiece, top with remaining turkey strips, cracked black pepper, walnuts, and some fresh parsley. Now gather everyone around because it’s time to enjoy The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi together!

Pro Tips for Making The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Making the perfect butternut squash gnocchi is easier than you think! Follow these pro tips to elevate your dish and impress your loved ones.

• Choose the right squash: Opt for a firm, heavy butternut squash with a smooth skin. This ensures sweeter, more flavorful gnocchi.
• Don’t rush the roasting: Allow the squash and garlic to roast until caramelized. This brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to your sauce.
• Adjust texture wisely: If your purée is too thick, add a splash of water or extra milk gradually while blending to reach the desired consistency.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh rosemary and quality mozzarella will enhance flavors significantly, making your dish taste gourmet.
• Let it rest: After cooking, let the gnocchi sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps all the flavors meld together beautifully.

How to Serve The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Presenting your butternut squash gnocchi beautifully can make a world of difference at the dinner table. Here are some delightful ideas on how to serve this comforting dish!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or sage adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up each bite.
• Toasted walnuts: For an added crunch and nutty flavor, scatter some toasted walnuts on top just before serving.
• Cracked black pepper: A few twists of freshly cracked black pepper will enhance the flavors and add a touch of elegance.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Serve warm, crispy garlic bread on the side for dipping into any leftover sauce—perfect for soaking up those delicious flavors!
• Mixed green salad: A simple salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the gnocchi.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like Brussels sprouts or carrots provide additional nutrition and pair wonderfully with the sweet squash.
• Steamed broccoli or green beans: These greens add vibrant color to your plate while balancing out the meal with their lightness.

With these suggestions in hand, you’re now ready to enjoy The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi in style! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This butternut squash gnocchi is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy comforting, homemade goodness throughout the week. Whether you’re planning ahead for busy days or simply want to savor this dish over multiple meals, here’s how to store it effectively.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the gnocchi to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers into an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• Prepare the gnocchi as directed but do not add the mozzarella before freezing.
• Allow the dish to cool completely.
• Portion out servings into freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Label and date them before placing in the freezer.
• Use within 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen gnocchi overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• In a saucepan over medium heat, add a splash of water or milk and gently heat until warmed through.
• Stir occasionally and add more liquid if necessary to keep it creamy.
• If desired, sprinkle with additional parmesan before serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi.

Can I use another type of squash instead of butternut?

Absolutely! While butternut squash provides a sweet flavor and creamy texture, you can also try other varieties like pumpkin or acorn squash for a different twist.

How can I make The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi vegan?

To make this recipe vegan-friendly, simply swap out the parmesan cheese for a plant-based alternative and use non-dairy milk instead of regular milk. The result will still be delicious!

Can I prepare The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi in advance?

Yes, this dish is fantastic for meal prepping! You can make it ahead of time and store it in your fridge or freezer. Just follow the storage instructions above.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi! This recipe not only warms your heart but also fills your home with delightful aromas. It’s special because it combines comfort food with wholesome ingredients that everyone can enjoy. I’m excited for you to experience this cozy dish—happy cooking!