When the weather turns cool, nothing feels better than a plate of Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage. It is cozy, rich, and the perfect kind of fall comfort food that warms you from the inside out. The mix of soft gnocchi, savory sausage, and sweet squash makes this dish a go-to for busy weeknights or slow weekends.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Quick and simple to prepare, perfect for fall dinner recipes
- Creamy and savory with just the right touch of sweetness
- Fills your kitchen with warm, cozy aromas that feel like home
Ingredients

Each ingredient brings something special to the dish:
- Butternut squash: adds natural sweetness and creaminess
- Gnocchi: soft and pillowy pasta that soaks up the sauce
- Sausage: gives rich flavor and makes the meal hearty, you can read more about beef sausage if you want to try other types
- Olive oil: for roasting and sautéing, keeps everything golden
- Garlic: adds depth and aroma
- Parmesan cheese: melts into the sauce for salty creaminess
- Fresh sage: earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with squash
- Salt and pepper: simple seasonings to balance it all
Step-by-Step Instructions

- Peel and cube the butternut squash, then roast it with olive oil, salt, and pepper until soft and caramelized.
- Cook the gnocchi in salted water until they float to the top, then set aside.
- In a large pan, cook the sausage until browned and crumbly, then remove to a plate.
- Add garlic and sage to the same pan with a splash of olive oil, letting the flavors bloom.
- Stir in the roasted squash and mash gently, creating a creamy base for the sauce.
- Add the gnocchi and sausage back into the pan, tossing everything together with a handful of Parmesan.
- Serve warm, topped with more cheese and fresh sage if desired.
Mistakes to Avoid

- Do not overcook the gnocchi or they will turn mushy instead of fluffy.
- Avoid using raw squash in the sauce. Roasting first brings out the sweetness and keeps the dish balanced.
- Do not skip fresh herbs. They lift the flavor and keep your Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage from tasting flat.
Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad or roasted veggies like purple sweet potatoes. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated gently. For a sweet finish, try a light dessert like cottage cheese cookie dough.

Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage
Ingredients
- – 1 medium butternut squash peeled and cubed
- – 1 lb gnocchi
- – 1/2 lb sausage Italian, chicken, or beef
- – 2 tbsp olive oil
- – 2 garlic cloves minced
- – 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
- – Fresh sage leaves
- – Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Roast cubed squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper until tender.
- Boil gnocchi in salted water until they float, then drain.
- Cook sausage in a skillet until browned, then set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté garlic and sage until fragrant.
- Stir in roasted squash, mashing slightly to form a creamy base.
- Add gnocchi and sausage, toss with Parmesan, and serve hot.
Notes
- Roast the squash ahead to save time on busy nights.
- Try spicy sausage for extra flavor contrast.
- Use gluten-free gnocchi if needed.
- Top with toasted walnuts for a nutty crunch.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can skip the sausage and keep the dish as a vegetarian version. The roasted squash still makes it hearty and delicious, and it turns into a great choice if you are looking for receitas vegetarianas gnocchi. Adding mushrooms or spinach also makes it filling.
What type of sausage works best?
You can use Italian sausage, chicken sausage, or even beef sausage. Each one changes the flavor slightly, so pick your favorite. Spicy sausage works well if you want to balance the sweetness of the squash.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can roast the squash and cook the sausage earlier in the day. Keep them stored separately in the fridge, then just cook the gnocchi and mix everything together when ready to serve. This makes it perfect for quick fall dinner plans when you want less stress at mealtime.
Conclusion
This warm bowl of Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage is the kind of meal you will want to make on repeat. It feels comforting, fits into your collection of fall dinner recipes, and even works for those who are exploring fitness squash recipes that do not feel boring. Save this recipe now so you can bring the flavors of fall to your table anytime.