The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms your heart and delights your taste buds, then you’ve come to the right place! This recipe for The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi is one of my all-time favorites. There’s something incredibly comforting about the creamy texture of roasted butternut squash combined with garlic and herbs. It’s the perfect dish for busy weeknights or family gatherings, and I promise it will quickly become a staple in your home.

What makes this gnocchi so special is how simple it is to prepare, yet it feels indulgent. The rich flavors of the roasted squash sauce, crispy turkey strips, and melty mozzarella create a delightful harmony. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies while satisfying those comfort food cravings!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious meal that feels gourmet without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this creamy gnocchi, making it a hit for dinner parties or family meals.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep the butternut squash purée in advance, saving time on busy nights.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of roasted squash, garlic, and fresh herbs creates an irresistible sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that these ingredients are not only simple but also wholesome and full of flavor. They come together beautifully in this recipe to create a comforting dish perfect for any occasion.

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

Variations

This recipe is versatile and can easily be adapted based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use chicken or even sautéed mushrooms instead of turkey for a different twist.
• Add greens: Toss in some spinach or kale to add more nutrition and color to your dish.
• Change up the cheese: Use feta or goat cheese for a tangy flavor if you prefer something different from mozzarella.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some extra heat if you’re feeling adventurous!

How to Make The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 180ºC. This ensures that your vegetables roast perfectly when they go in.

Step 2: Prepare the Squash and Vegetables

Place the butternut squash cubes, sliced onion, and peeled garlic on a baking tray. Sprinkle with rosemary and drizzle with olive oil. This step allows all those flavors to meld together while roasting.

Step 3: Roast the Vegetables

Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes until the onions are golden, garlic is tender, and the squash is soft. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness which enhances your sauce later.

Step 4: Make the Purée

Transfer all those lovely roasted veggies into a food processor or blender. Blend until smooth! If necessary, add a little water for a thick consistency. This purée forms the base of your flavorful 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 crispy. This adds texture to our creamy gnocchi dish!

Step 6: Prepare the Gnocchi

Spoon that luscious butternut squash purée back into the frying pan. Add 75 ml of water along with milk, then stir in shelf-stable gnocchi. Let it gently simmer uncovered for about 8-10 minutes until tender—this is where magic happens!

Step 7: Finish the Sauce

Stir in grated parmesan and lemon juice while adjusting seasoning to taste. Add half of those crispy turkey strips along with some reserved fat—you want every bite packed with flavor!

Step 8: Melt the Mozzarella

Place torn mozzarella pieces on top of your gnocchi mix. Slide the pan under the grill (broiler) for about 5 minutes until bubbly and melted—this step takes it over-the-top delicious!

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Top off your masterpiece with remaining turkey strips, cracked black pepper, walnuts, and fresh parsley before serving warm. Enjoy every bite as you share this delightful dish with loved ones!

Pro Tips for Making The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Creating the perfect butternut squash gnocchi is a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll elevate your dish to new heights!

• Choose ripe butternut squash: A sweet, well-ripened squash will enhance the flavor of your gnocchi, making it more delicious and comforting.
• Don’t rush the roasting: Roasting the squash and garlic until golden brings out their natural sweetness. This step is crucial for a rich, flavorful base.
• Adjust water as needed: When blending your roasted vegetables into a purée, add water gradually. This ensures a thick yet smooth consistency that clings beautifully to the gnocchi.
• Simmer gently: Allowing the gnocchi to simmer gently in the sauce helps them absorb flavors while preventing them from becoming mushy.
• Experiment with herbs: While rosemary adds a lovely aroma, feel free to experiment with other herbs like sage or thyme for a different twist on flavor!

How to Serve The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Presenting your gnocchi can turn a simple meal into an impressive feast! Here are some ideas to make your dish shine at any dinner table.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up each bite.
• Cracked black pepper: A dash of freshly cracked black pepper enhances the dish’s warmth and complexity.
• Grated lemon zest: Adding some lemon zest just before serving gives a zesty kick that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your gnocchi.
• Mixed green salad: A light salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the gnocchi.
• Roasted Brussels sprouts: These caramelized bites bring extra texture and flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of butternut squash.
• Steamed asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds a lovely green element to your plate, bringing both color and crunch alongside your hearty meal.

Enjoy crafting this cozy meal with friends or family—it’s bound to become a cherished favorite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This butternut squash gnocchi is not only a delight to eat, but it’s also perfect for meal prep! With a few simple steps, you can make this dish ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the gnocchi to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the cooked gnocchi cool down before freezing.
• Place portions of gnocchi in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen gnocchi overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• To reheat, add a splash of water or milk in a pan over medium heat, stirring gently until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, checking frequently to avoid overheating.

FAQs

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

Can I use fresh gnocchi instead of shelf-stable?

Absolutely! Fresh gnocchi will cook faster, so be sure to adjust your cooking time accordingly. Enjoy the same delicious flavors!

How do I make The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi vegan?

To make this dish vegan, simply substitute the mozzarella with a plant-based cheese alternative and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan. It will still be creamy and satisfying!

What can I serve with The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi?

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables. A sprinkle of fresh herbs can also elevate it further!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi as much as I do! This cozy dish brings warmth and comfort to any meal, perfect for sharing with family and friends. It’s easy to prepare and can easily become a weeknight favorite. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to get creative with your toppings! Happy cooking!