The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

If you’re looking for a comforting meal that warms your heart and fills your belly, look no further than The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi. This dish combines the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash with the creamy goodness of mozzarella, making it perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. I love how simple yet satisfying it is—ideal for busy weeknights or when you want to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen.

What makes this gnocchi truly special is its rich flavor profile, brought to life by garlic and rosemary. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate more veggies into your meals. Trust me; this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delightful dish in no time.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the creamy texture and comforting flavors!
• Make-ahead convenience: You can easily prepare the purée ahead of time and finish the dish when you’re ready.
• Deliciously versatile: Feel free to customize with your favorite ingredients or snacks, making it a different experience each time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that create a deliciously satisfying meal. Here’s what you’ll need for The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi:

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

Variations

One of the best things about The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi is how flexible it can be! Feel free to experiment with these fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
• Change up the cheese: If you’re not a fan of mozzarella, goat cheese or ricotta would add a lovely creaminess!
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale while simmering for an extra nutrient boost.
• Spice it up: A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can give this dish an exciting kick!

How to Make The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by setting your oven to 180ºC. This will ensure it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to roast those beautiful vegetables.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

Place your butternut squash cubes, sliced onion, and peeled garlic on a baking tray. Sprinkle with rosemary and drizzle everything with olive oil. Mixing these ingredients together helps them roast evenly, bringing out all those wonderful flavors.

Step 3: Roast the Vegetables

Pop your tray into the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the onions are tender and golden, and the squash is soft. This step really enhances their natural sweetness!

Step 4: Make the Purée

Once roasted, transfer everything into a food processor or blender. Blend until smooth, adding just a little water if needed to achieve that creamy texture. A silky purée makes all the difference in tying together every bite of gnocchi.

Step 5: Cook the Turkey Strips

In a medium frying pan with high sides, heat 5 ml (1 teaspoon) of olive oil over medium heat. Fry those turkey strips until they’re crispy—this adds a lovely crunch to contrast against the creamy gnocchi.

Step 6: Prepare the Gnocchi

Spoon your delicious butternut squash purée back into that frying pan, adding in 75 ml of water and milk before stirring in the gnocchi. Let it gently simmer uncovered for about 8-10 minutes—this is where all those flavors meld together beautifully!

Step 7: Finish the Sauce

Mix in grated parmesan and lemon juice; taste and adjust seasoning as needed! Then fold half of your crispy turkey strips back into the sauce along with some reserved fat—this adds even more flavor.

Step 8: Melt the Mozzarella

Now comes one of my favorite parts! Place those torn mozzarella pieces on top of your gnocchi goodness and pop it under the grill (broiler) for about five minutes until melted. Just imagine that cheesy goodness!

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Finally, finish off by topping with remaining turkey strips, cracked black pepper, walnuts, and some fresh parsley. Serve warm and get ready for compliments from everyone at the table!

With this easy recipe at hand, you’ll have The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi ready to enjoy any night of the week! Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Making gnocchi at home can be so rewarding, and with these tips, you’ll ensure your dish is nothing short of perfect!

• Choose ripe butternut squash: Selecting a ripe squash ensures a naturally sweet and creamy flavor, which is key to a delicious gnocchi sauce.

• Don’t rush the roasting: Allowing the vegetables to roast until golden brings out their natural sweetness and depth of flavor, enhancing the overall taste of your dish.

• Adjust the consistency of the purée: If your purée is too thick, adding a splash of water will help achieve the right texture. A smooth sauce allows the gnocchi to absorb all those wonderful flavors.

• Cook gnocchi gently: Simmering the gnocchi slowly helps them maintain their shape and ensures they cook evenly. This way, you won’t end up with mushy dumplings!

• Experiment with garnishes: Fresh herbs or a sprinkle of nuts can brighten up your dish and add texture. Don’t shy away from making it your own!

How to Serve The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Presenting your butternut squash gnocchi beautifully will make it even more enjoyable! Here are some ideas to consider:

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: Adding some freshly chopped parsley not only enhances the color but also provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.

• Cracked black pepper: A sprinkle of cracked black pepper adds not just visual appeal but also a lovely kick that complements the sweet squash.

• Toasted walnuts: Tossing some extra toasted walnuts on top gives a satisfying crunch and boosts the nutty flavors in the dish.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: A warm, crusty garlic bread pairs perfectly with this creamy gnocchi, allowing you to soak up every last bit of that delicious sauce.

• Simple Green Salad: A light salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast and balances out the richness of the gnocchi.

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The slight bitterness of roasted Brussels sprouts complements the sweetness of the butternut squash and adds another layer of flavor to your meal.

• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli not only looks stunning on the plate but also provides a nutritious addition that rounds out this comforting dish.

By following these serving suggestions, you can elevate your The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi experience into something truly special! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This butternut squash gnocchi is perfect for meal prep, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights. You can easily store leftovers or even prepare it in advance to enjoy later!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the gnocchi to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3-4 days for the best taste and texture.

Freezing

• Let the cooked gnocchi cool down to room temperature.
• Transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag, ensuring as much air as possible is removed.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months. For best results, consider portioning into smaller servings.

Reheating

• To reheat from the refrigerator, warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or milk if necessary.
• If reheating from frozen, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before warming.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions until heated through, stirring halfway.

FAQs

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

Can I use other types of squash for this recipe?

While butternut squash is recommended for its sweetness and texture, you can also experiment with acorn squash or pumpkin. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

What makes this The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi?

This dish stands out because of its creamy roasted squash sauce combined with crispy turkey strips and melted mozzarella. It’s a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare yet feels gourmet!

Can I make the gnocchi ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the butternut squash purée in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add the gnocchi and remaining ingredients when you’re ready to cook.

Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

To make this recipe vegan-friendly, substitute turkey strips with sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas, and swap mozzarella and parmesan for plant-based cheeses.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi as much as I do! This recipe combines comforting flavors with easy preparation—perfect for any cozy meal at home. Don’t hesitate to invite friends over to share; they’ll be amazed by your culinary skills! Happy cooking!