The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

If you’re looking for a dish that wraps you in warmth and comfort, look no further! This is truly The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi you’ll ever make. With its creamy, rich sauce made from roasted butternut squash and garlic, this dish is perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering. Each bite feels like a warm hug, making it an instant favorite in our home.

What I love about this recipe is how simple yet satisfying it is. Perfectly cooked gnocchi nestled in a luscious sauce topped with crispy turkey strips and gooey mozzarella—what’s not to love? It’s a delightful meal that brings everyone together around the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious meal in no time.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the comforting flavors of this scrumptious dish.
• Great for meal prep: Make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week!
• Versatile: You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins.
• Deliciously healthy: Packed with nutrients from the butternut squash, it’s a wholesome choice for dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this amazing dish! You’ll find everything you need right here to make The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi.

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! You can easily swap out ingredients or add your personal touch to make it your own. Here are a few ideas:

• Swap the protein: Instead of turkey, try using grilled chicken or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale for extra greens and nutrients.
• Change the cheese: If you want to get creative, use goat cheese or feta instead of mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
• Spice it up: Add some red pepper flakes for a little kick if you like things spicy!

How to Make The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 180ºC. This way, when your veggies are ready, they’ll roast beautifully right away!

Step 2: Prepare the Squash and Vegetables

On a baking tray, place the butternut squash cubes alongside the sliced onion and peeled garlic. Sprinkle them with fresh rosemary and drizzle some olive oil over everything. This step is crucial because roasting brings out their natural sweetness and enhances their flavors.

Step 3: Roast the Vegetables

Pop the tray into your preheated oven for about 30 minutes. You want those onions and garlic tender and golden while ensuring the squash becomes soft and cooked through. It fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma!

Step 4: Make the Purée

Transfer those roasted vegetables into a food processor or blender. Blend until smooth; if needed, add just a little water to achieve that velvety texture. This purée will become your rich sauce base.

Step 5: Cook the Turkey Strips

In a medium frying pan with high sides, heat about 1 teaspoon of olive oil over medium heat until hot. Fry those turkey strips until crispy—this adds great texture to your dish! Once done, transfer them to a small bowl.

Step 6: Prepare the Gnocchi

Spoon that luscious butternut squash purée back into the frying pan. Add 75 ml of water along with milk before stirring in those gnocchi. Let them gently simmer uncovered for about 8-10 minutes until tender. It’s all coming together now!

Step 7: Finish the Sauce

Stir in grated parmesan and lemon juice at this stage, adjusting seasoning as needed. Incorporate half of those crispy turkey strips along with any reserved fat from cooking them—this adds depth of flavor.

Step 8: Melt the Mozzarella

Now comes one of my favorite parts! Place torn mozzarella pieces on top of your gnocchi mixture and pop it under the grill (broiler) for about 5 minutes until melted and bubbly. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Finally, top off your masterpiece with remaining turkey strips, cracked black pepper, walnuts, and fresh parsley for that perfect finishing touch. Now dig in and enjoy every delightful bite!

Pro Tips for Making The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Creating a comforting bowl of butternut squash gnocchi is easier than you might think, and these tips will help you achieve the best results!

• Use fresh ingredients: Opt for fresh rosemary and garlic to enhance the flavors of your dish. Fresh herbs provide a vibrant taste that dried herbs simply can’t match.

• Roast until caramelized: Make sure to roast your vegetables until they’re nicely caramelized. This adds a depth of flavor that makes the sauce irresistible and brings out the natural sweetness of the butternut squash.

• Adjust the consistency: If your purée is too thick, don’t hesitate to add a little water or extra milk. A creamy sauce is key to making sure each gnocchi is perfectly coated and delicious!

• Don’t overcook the gnocchi: Keep an eye on your gnocchi while simmering. They only need about 8-10 minutes to cook through and become tender, ensuring they retain their delightful texture.

• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to play around with different garnishes like crushed red pepper or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for added flavor. Personalizing your dish can make it even more enjoyable!

How to Serve The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Presenting your butternut squash gnocchi beautifully can turn a simple meal into something special! Here are some ideas to elevate your dish at mealtime.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds color but also a burst of freshness that complements the richness of the gnocchi.
• Cracked black pepper: A few cracks of black pepper will add a hint of spice and enhance all the flavors in the dish.
• Toasted pumpkin seeds: For an extra crunch, top your serving with toasted pumpkin seeds which pair beautifully with the squash.

Side Dishes

• Simple green salad: A light mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances out the richness of the gnocchi, offering a refreshing contrast.
• Garlic bread: Crispy garlic bread makes for a perfect accompaniment, ideal for scooping up any leftover sauce from your plate!
• Sautéed spinach: Quick-sautéed spinach with olive oil and lemon juice adds vibrant color and nutrition, making it a lovely side that complements this dish well.
• Roasted Brussels sprouts: Seasoned roasted Brussels sprouts bring a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with sweet butternut squash, enhancing your overall meal experience.

Enjoy crafting and sharing this delightful dish! It’s not just about eating; it’s about creating memories around the table with loved ones.

Make Ahead and Storage

This butternut squash gnocchi is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for busy weeknights, ensuring a comforting meal is always within reach.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Portion the gnocchi into freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or milk until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated.

FAQs

Have some questions? You’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries about this recipe.

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

Absolutely! While butternut squash gives a delightful flavor and texture, you can substitute it with acorn squash or pumpkin if desired. Just keep in mind that different squashes may alter the taste slightly.

How do I know when the gnocchi is done cooking in The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi?

The gnocchi is cooked when it becomes tender and floats to the surface of the simmering sauce. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to avoid overcooking.

Can The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi be made vegan?

Yes! You can replace the mozzarella with a vegan cheese alternative and use plant-based milk instead of regular milk for a delicious vegan version without sacrificing flavor.

What can I serve with The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad or steamed vegetables. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette makes a refreshing side.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do! The comforting flavors of roasted butternut squash combined with crispy turkey and creamy mozzarella create a truly special dish that warms the heart. Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or meal prep for your busy week, this gnocchi will surely impress. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your experience!