The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms the heart and fills the belly, then you have to try The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi. This recipe is one of my all-time favorites, blending the sweet, nutty flavor of roasted butternut squash with the comforting texture of gnocchi. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings where everyone needs a little extra love and comfort.

What makes this recipe special is how simple it is to prepare while still being packed with flavor. Roasting the squash and garlic brings out their natural sweetness, and when paired with crispy turkey strips and gooey mozzarella, it creates an unforgettable meal. Trust me, your loved ones will be coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delightful dish without breaking a sweat.
• Family-friendly: Everyone from kids to adults will enjoy the delicious flavors and comforting textures.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy hearty meals throughout the week.
• Rich in flavor: The combination of roasted squash and garlic creates a sauce that’s both rich and satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store. 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)
• 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 wonderfully flexible! Feel free to customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale for added nutrition and color.
• Change up the cheese: If mozzarella isn’t your favorite, feel free to use ricotta or feta instead.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

How to Make The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 180ºC. This step ensures that we roast our vegetables quickly and evenly, helping them caramelize beautifully.

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 combo not only adds flavor but also helps the vegetables roast perfectly.

Step 3: Roast the Vegetables

Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the onions are golden and tender, and the squash is soft. Roasting enhances their natural sweetness while creating that lovely caramelized flavor.

Step 4: Make the Purée

Transfer those roasted beauties to a food processor or blender. Blend until smooth! If needed, add a splash of water to achieve a thick purée—this creamy base will be key to our sauce.

Step 5: Cook the Turkey Strips

In a medium frying pan with high sides, heat a teaspoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, fry those turkey strips until they’re nice and crispy. This adds texture to our dish!

Step 6: Prepare the Gnocchi

Spoon your butternut squash purée into the frying pan. Add some water along with milk, then stir in your gnocchi. Let it gently simmer uncovered for about 8-10 minutes until they’re tender—this step allows them to soak up all that delicious flavor.

Step 7: Finish the Sauce

Stir in grated parmesan cheese and lemon juice at this stage. Adjust seasoning as needed! Don’t forget to add half of those crispy turkey strips along with some reserved fat for extra flavor.

Step 8: Melt the Mozzarella

Top your gnocchi with torn mozzarella pieces and place it under the grill for about 5 minutes until melted. Watching that cheese bubble is one of my favorite parts!

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Finally, top with remaining turkey strips, cracked black pepper, walnuts, and fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy this comforting bowl of goodness with family or friends!

Pro Tips for Making The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Making gnocchi can be a delightful experience, especially when you follow these handy tips!

• Use fresh butternut squash: Fresh squash has a sweeter and richer flavor compared to canned options, enhancing the overall taste of your gnocchi.

• Don’t skip roasting: Roasting the squash and garlic caramelizes their natural sugars, resulting in a depth of flavor that boiling simply can’t achieve.

• Adjust gnocchi cooking time: Keep an eye on the gnocchi while they simmer. Cooking times can vary based on brand, so aim for tender but not mushy pieces.

• Go easy on the salt: Since parmesan and turkey can add saltiness, start with less seasoning and adjust as needed to keep the flavor balanced.

• Experiment with herbs: While rosemary is wonderful, feel free to try sage or thyme for a different herbal note that complements the sweetness of the squash.

How to Serve The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Presenting your butternut squash gnocchi beautifully can transform this comforting dish into a stunning centerpiece for your table. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving game!

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up each bite.
• Cracked black pepper: A few cracks of pepper offer a hint of spice that complements the creamy mozzarella wonderfully.
• Toasted walnuts: Adding extra toasted walnuts on top not only enhances texture but also gives a nutty richness that pairs beautifully with the dish.

Side Dishes

• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the rich gnocchi.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These crispy sprouts bring an earthy flavor that balances out the sweetness of the butternut squash while adding a satisfying crunch.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is always a hit! It’s perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce and makes every meal feel special.
• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color to your plate and offers a nutritious side that complements the heaviness of the gnocchi.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re ready to impress family and friends with The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi! Enjoy your cozy meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch of The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi ahead of time, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• If you want to freeze this dish, let it cool completely first.
• Portion the gnocchi into freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen gnocchi in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• To reheat, place in a saucepan over medium heat with a splash of water or milk until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave in short increments, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

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

Can I use fresh butternut squash instead of frozen?

Yes! For The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi, using fresh butternut squash will enhance the flavor and texture. Just ensure to roast it until tender.

What can I substitute for parmesan cheese?

If you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative in The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi, try nutritional yeast or a store-bought vegan parmesan substitute to add that cheesy flavor without dairy.

How do I know when the gnocchi is cooked?

The gnocchi is cooked when it floats to the surface of the simmering sauce. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi as much as I do! This dish is not only delicious but also brings warmth and comfort to any table. Whether it’s a cozy night in or impressing friends at dinner, it’s sure to be a hit. Happy cooking!