The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

If you’re looking for a dish that wraps you in warmth and comfort, The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi is just what you need. This recipe has become a cherished favorite in my home, perfect for those chilly evenings when all you want is something hearty and delicious. With its creamy squash sauce and crispy turkey, it’s an exciting twist on a classic dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.

This gnocchi is not only great for busy weeknights but also shines at family gatherings. The flavors blend beautifully, creating a meal that feels both special and comforting. Trust me, once you make this delightful dish, it might just become your go-to recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, this dish can be whipped up in no time!
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids love the soft gnocchi and cheesy topping, making it a hit for the whole family.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week—just reheat and savor!
• Deliciously satisfying: The combination of roasted butternut squash and creamy mozzarella creates an irresistible flavor profile.
• Healthier comfort food: Packed with wholesome ingredients like squash and walnuts, this recipe offers a nutritious twist without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this amazing butternut squash gnocchi. You’ll find everything you need right here for a dish that’s sure to impress!

For the Sauce

• 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

For the Gnocchi

• 500 g shelf-stable gnocchi
• 50 g parmesan (grated)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 30 g walnuts (roughly chopped (2 tablespoons))
• 75 ml milk

For Topping

• 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 get creative with these variations that can put your own spin on The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi:

• Swap the protein: If turkey isn’t your thing, try using chicken or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
• Add greens: Toss in some spinach or kale right before serving to add nutrition and color.
• Switch up the nuts: If you’re not a fan of walnuts, try pecans or pine nuts for a different crunch.
• Make it vegan: Substitute the parmesan with nutritional yeast and use plant-based milk to keep it dairy-free.

How to Make The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 180ºC. This step is essential because roasting our veggies at the right temperature ensures they caramelize beautifully, enhancing their natural sweetness.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

Place the butternut squash cubes, sliced onion, and peeled garlic on a baking tray. Sprinkle with rosemary and drizzle with olive oil. Toss them together so they’re evenly coated—this will help them roast perfectly!

Step 3: Roast the Vegetables

Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until everything is tender and golden. Roasting brings out deep flavors in the squash and garlic that create an incredible base for our sauce.

Step 4: Make the Purée

Transfer all those beautiful roasted veggies into a food processor or blender. Blend until smooth, adding a little water if necessary to achieve that luscious purée texture. This will be our rich sauce.

Step 5: Cook the Turkey Strips

In a medium frying pan with high sides, heat about 5 ml (1 teaspoon) of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, fry your turkey strips until they’re golden brown and crispy—this adds wonderful texture to our dish.

Step 6: Prepare the Gnocchi

Spoon your butternut squash purée into the frying pan along with some water and milk. Stir in the gnocchi gently simmering uncovered for about 8-10 minutes until they are tender and infused with flavor.

Step 7: Finish the Sauce

Stir in freshly grated parmesan cheese and lemon juice, adjusting seasoning as needed. Adding half of those crispy turkey strips enhances flavor as well as adds texture!

Step 8: Melt the Mozzarella

Now comes one of my favorite parts! Place torn mozzarella pieces on top of your gnocchi mix. Pop it under the grill (broiler) for about 5 minutes until gooey goodness happens!

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Top off your masterpiece with remaining turkey strips, cracked black pepper, walnuts, and some fresh parsley for color! Serve warm with a smile—your guests will adore this cozy meal!

Pro Tips for Making The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Creating the perfect butternut squash gnocchi is a delightful journey, and with a few handy tips, you can elevate your dish even further!

• Use fresh butternut squash: Fresh squash has a sweeter and more robust flavor than pre-packaged options, making your gnocchi taste more vibrant and delicious.

• Don’t rush the roasting: Roasting the squash and garlic until they’re golden enhances their natural sweetness. This step is crucial in building the rich flavors of your sauce.

• Adjust the consistency: If your purée is too thick, add a splash of water or milk to achieve a smoother texture. This will help create a creamy sauce that clings beautifully to the gnocchi.

• Taste as you go: Seasoning is key! Make sure to taste your sauce before serving so you can adjust with salt, pepper, or lemon juice for that perfect balance of flavors.

• Experiment with herbs: While rosemary adds a lovely aroma, feel free to try other herbs like thyme or sage for a different twist on flavor that complements the butternut squash wonderfully.

How to Serve The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Serving your butternut squash gnocchi beautifully can make all the difference in presentation and enjoyment. Here are some ideas on how to present this comforting dish!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Cracked black pepper: A dash of cracked black pepper not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the flavors with its aromatic zest.
• Parmesan shavings: For an extra touch of indulgence, add some delicate parmesan shavings on top right before serving.

Side Dishes

• Mixed green salad: A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the gnocchi while adding a refreshing crunch.

• Garlic bread: Warm garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your plate, creating an irresistible combination that’s hard to resist.

• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables (like Brussels sprouts or carrots) provide additional textures and flavors that harmonize with the sweetness of the butternut squash.

• Steamed asparagus: The slight bitterness of asparagus balances out the creaminess of the gnocchi and adds a pop of color to your meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi in style! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This butternut squash gnocchi is not only delightful to eat but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for those busy weeknights when you crave comfort food without the fuss.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the gnocchi cool fully, then portion it out into freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Label the bags with the date, and freeze for up to 2 months.
• To prevent sticking, consider freezing the gnocchi in a single layer on a baking tray before transferring to bags.

Reheating

• For refrigerated leftovers, reheat in a saucepan over medium heat with a splash of water or milk until warmed through.
• If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, or reheat straight from frozen on low heat, adding liquid as needed.

FAQs

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

Can I use other types of squash in The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi?

Absolutely! While butternut squash is recommended for its sweetness and texture, you can substitute with acorn or pumpkin squash for a different flavor profile. Just ensure they’re cooked well to achieve that creamy purée.

Is The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi suitable for vegetarian diets?

Yes! This recipe can easily be made vegetarian by omitting the turkey strips. You can enhance the flavor by adding extra nuts or sautéed vegetables instead.

How long does it take to prepare The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi?

The total time is approximately 60 minutes, with about 20 minutes of prep time and 40 minutes of cooking time. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner!

Can I make The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi gluten-free?

Certainly! Use gluten-free gnocchi instead of regular ones. Make sure all your other ingredients are also certified gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this recipe for The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi as comforting and satisfying as I do! Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it such a special dish that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones. Enjoy making this delightful meal, and don’t hesitate to gather around the table with family or friends. Happy cooking!