The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that warms the heart and fills the belly, you’ve come to the right place! I’m excited to share with you my recipe for The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi. This delightful meal is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. With its creamy sauce, crispy turkey, and rich flavors from roasted garlic and squash, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or simply indulging in some self-care on a quiet evening, this gnocchi is just what you need. Plus, it’s so easy to make that even novice cooks can whip it up without breaking a sweat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have this delicious dish ready in under an hour.
• Flavorful Comfort: The roasted butternut squash and garlic create a rich sauce that’s both hearty and satisfying.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone from kids to adults will love the creamy texture and delicious taste of this gnocchi.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the butternut squash purée ahead of time, making dinner even quicker on busy nights.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients like squash, walnuts, and turkey, this dish is as healthy as it is tasty.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the ingredients. They’re simple and wholesome—perfect for creating a delicious meal that feels special! Here’s what you’ll need for The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi:

For the Roasted Vegetables

• 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 Dish

• 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

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Instead of turkey strips, try using grilled chicken or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
• Add some greens: Toss in some spinach or kale during cooking for extra nutrition and color.
• Change up the nuts: If walnuts aren’t your thing, pine nuts or pecans work beautifully too!
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat in your dishes.

How to Make The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 180ºC. This step is crucial because we want our vegetables roasted perfectly—soft on the inside with just the right amount of caramelization on the outside.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

Place the butternut squash cubes, sliced onion, and peeled garlic on a baking tray. Sprinkle them with rosemary and drizzle with olive oil. This combination not only enhances flavor but also ensures everything roasts evenly.

Step 3: Roast the Vegetables

Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You want those onions golden brown and soft while ensuring that your squash becomes tender—this creates that beautiful depth of flavor we’re after.

Step 4: Make the Purée

Transfer your roasted veggies to a food processor or blender. Blend until smooth; add a little water if needed to achieve a thick consistency. This purée will be the heart of our sauce—rich, creamy, and full of flavor!

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. Once hot, fry your turkey strips until crispy. This adds texture to our dish! Transfer them to a small bowl when done.

Step 6: Prepare the Gnocchi

Spoon your butternut squash purée back into the frying pan. Add 75 ml of water along with milk and stir in your gnocchi. Gently simmer uncovered for about 8-10 minutes until tender—this allows all those flavors to meld beautifully together!

Step 7: Finish the Sauce

Stir in parmesan cheese and lemon juice while adjusting seasoning to taste. Add half of those crispy turkey pieces too! This step brings everything together into one cohesive dish that sings with flavor.

Step 8: Melt the Mozzarella

Place torn mozzarella pieces on top of your gnocchi mixture. Pop it under the grill (broiler) for about 5 minutes until melted—this gooey goodness takes our dish over-the-top!

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Top off your creation with remaining turkey strips, cracked black pepper, walnuts, and fresh parsley before serving. It’s all about those finishing touches that make every bite delightful!

Now you’re ready to dig into The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi! Enjoy this cozy meal with loved ones—or savor every bite by yourself; I won’t tell!

Pro Tips for Making The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Making gnocchi from scratch can be a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time!

• Choose ripe squash: Opt for butternut squash that feels heavy for its size and has a smooth skin. This ensures sweetness and creaminess in your purée.

• Roast longer for flavor: Don’t rush the roasting process! Allow the squash and garlic to caramelize; this brings out their natural sugars and enhances the overall flavor.

• Use a food processor: A smooth purée is key to achieving that velvety texture. Blending in small batches can help ensure a consistent mix without overloading your machine.

• Monitor gnocchi cooking time: Keep an eye on the gnocchi as they simmer. Overcooking can lead to mushy dumplings, while undercooking leaves them chewy. Aim for a tender bite!

• Experiment with garnishes: Don’t hesitate to customize your dish with different toppings or herbs. Fresh ingredients can brighten up the flavors and add visual appeal.

How to Serve The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

This comforting dish not only tastes incredible but also looks beautiful on the plate. With a little creativity, you can enhance its presentation and elevate your meal experience.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or basil on top for a burst of freshness.
• Cracked black pepper: A dash of freshly cracked black pepper adds a lovely kick that complements the creaminess of the sauce.
• Toasted nuts: Add some extra crunch by scattering extra walnuts or pine nuts over the dish just before serving.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Soft, warm garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce and adds a delightful crunch to your meal.
• Mixed greens salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty gnocchi.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like Brussels sprouts or carrots not only add color but also provide additional nutrients.
• Steamed broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli adds vibrancy and pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of the gnocchi.

Now that you have all these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to impress your family or guests with The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This butternut squash gnocchi is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a comforting, homemade dish throughout the week. You can easily store leftovers, make them ahead of time, or even freeze portions for later.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Portion the leftover gnocchi into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw frozen gnocchi in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or milk to keep it moist.
• Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi that you might find helpful!

Can I use fresh butternut squash instead of frozen?

You can absolutely use fresh butternut squash! Just follow the roasting instructions as outlined in the recipe for maximum flavor.

How do I ensure my gnocchi turns out light and fluffy?

To achieve light and fluffy gnocchi, be careful not to overmix the dough after adding flour. It’s also important to cook the gnocchi just until they float in boiling water.

What’s special about The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi?

The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi is special because it’s not only delicious but also packed with flavor from roasted garlic and rosemary. It’s a warm hug on a plate!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi as much as I do! This dish brings together comforting flavors and warm textures that will surely make your meal special. Don’t hesitate to share your experience or any variations you try—I love hearing from fellow food lovers! Happy cooking!