The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug, then you’ve come to the right place! This recipe for The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi has quickly become a family favorite in my home. The combination of roasted butternut squash and garlic creates a creamy sauce that’s simply irresistible. And let’s not forget about the crispy turkey strips and gooey mozzarella on top – it’s comfort food at its finest!

Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy gathering with loved ones, this dish fits perfectly into any occasion. It’s simple yet satisfying, making it the ideal recipe to whip up when you want something hearty but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this comforting dish, making it great for family dinners.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the sauce earlier in the day and simply heat it up when you’re ready to enjoy your meal.
• Flavorful and Nutritious: Packed with wholesome ingredients, this gnocchi is both tasty and good for you!
• Versatile: You can easily customize it with different veggies or proteins to suit your taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This recipe uses simple, wholesome items that you probably already have in your pantry. They all come together to create a dish that bursts with flavor!

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
• 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 is! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use chicken breast or plant-based strips instead of turkey for a different twist.
• Add more greens: Toss in some spinach or kale during the last few minutes for an extra boost of nutrients.
• Make it vegan: Substitute dairy milk with almond or oat milk and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan!
• Experiment with spices: Add nutmeg or chili flakes for an extra kick of flavor.

How to Make The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 180ºC. This way, when we’re ready to roast our veggies, they will cook evenly and develop that beautiful caramelization that enhances their natural sweetness.

Step 2: Prepare the Squash and Vegetables

Place those lovely butternut squash cubes, sliced onion, and peeled garlic on a baking tray. Sprinkle them with fresh rosemary and drizzle everything generously with olive oil. This step is crucial because roasting will bring out their flavors beautifully!

Step 3: Roast the Vegetables

Slide your baking tray into the oven and roast for about 30 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want them tender and golden. The sweet aroma wafting through your kitchen will make waiting worthwhile!

Step 4: Make the Purée

Once your vegetables are roasted to perfection, transfer them to a food processor or blender. Blend until smooth, adding a little water if necessary. This thick purée will form the base of our luscious sauce.

Step 5: Cook the Turkey Strips or Turkey Slices

In a medium frying pan with high sides, heat just a teaspoon of olive oil over medium heat. Fry those turkey strips until they’re crispy – this adds great texture to our dish! Save those crunchy bits aside; they’ll be added later for garnish.

Step 6: Prepare the Gnocchi

Spoon that delicious butternut squash purée back into your frying pan. Add some water and milk, then gently stir in the gnocchi. Simmer uncovered for about 8-10 minutes until they’re tender. This will allow them to soak up all those savory flavors!

Step 7: Finish the Sauce

Stir in grated parmesan cheese and lemon juice next. Taste as you go; adjusting seasoning is key! Fold in half of those crispy turkey strips along with some reserved fat from cooking – trust me, it adds fantastic flavor!

Step 8: Melt the Mozzarella

Now comes one of my favorite parts! Top off your gnocchi with torn mozzarella pieces before placing the pan under the grill (broiler) for about five minutes until bubbly and golden.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Finally, sprinkle on those remaining turkey strips for crunch, add cracked black pepper, walnuts, and fresh parsley. Serve it hot; this dish deserves to be enjoyed right out of the oven!

And there you have it—the BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Making gnocchi may seem daunting, but with a few simple tips, you can achieve a deliciously comforting dish that will impress your friends and family!

• Choose ripe butternut squash: A ripe squash will have a sweet flavor and creamy texture, which enhances the overall taste of the gnocchi.
• Don’t rush the roasting: Roasting the squash and garlic brings out their natural sweetness. Be sure to let them get golden and tender for maximum flavor.
• Adjust the consistency: If your purée is too thick, feel free to add a bit more water or milk until it reaches a smooth, creamy consistency. This ensures that the gnocchi are well-coated in sauce.
• Use fresh herbs: Fresh rosemary adds a fragrant depth to the dish that dried herbs simply can’t match. Plus, it looks lovely as a garnish!
• Experiment with toppings: While turkey strips are delightful, don’t hesitate to try other proteins or even sautéed vegetables for variety. It keeps things exciting on your dinner table!

How to Serve The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

This butternut squash gnocchi not only tastes fantastic but also looks stunning on your plate. Here are some ideas to elevate your presentation and make this dish truly shine!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: Sprinkling freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Cracked black pepper: A dash of cracked black pepper provides an aromatic kick that complements the sweetness of the squash beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Crisp and buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate—it’s a classic pairing that’s hard to resist.
• Mixed green salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich gnocchi.
• Roasted Brussels sprouts: These slightly caramelized veggies bring an earthy flavor that balances out the sweetness of the butternut squash.
• Steamed asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds a crisp texture and vibrant color that enhances both taste and presentation.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to create an unforgettable meal! Enjoy every comforting bite of your homemade butternut squash gnocchi!

Make Ahead and Storage

This butternut squash gnocchi is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious servings throughout the week! Whether you’re planning lunches or cozy dinners, this dish stores beautifully and can be reheated easily.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover gnocchi in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Allow it to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze the gnocchi, let it cool completely first.
• Transfer portions into freezer-safe bags or containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Remember to label with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat from the fridge, warm in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring gently until heated through.
• For frozen leftovers, thaw in the fridge overnight, then follow the same reheating instructions.
• You can also reheat in the microwave. Just cover and heat in short intervals until hot.

FAQs

Have questions about making The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi? Here are some answers!

Can I use other types of squash for this gnocchi?

Absolutely! While butternut squash gives a lovely sweetness, you can experiment with other varieties like acorn or pumpkin.

How do I make The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi vegan?

To make this dish vegan-friendly, substitute the mozzarella with a plant-based cheese alternative and use almond milk instead of regular milk.

What should I serve with this dish?

This gnocchi pairs wonderfully with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the butternut squash purée ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just combine it with gnocchi when you’re ready to eat!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi! This recipe embodies warmth and comfort, perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying a quiet evening at home. Embrace its rich flavors and nourishing ingredients, and don’t hesitate to make it your own. Happy cooking!