One Skillet Butternut Squash Gnocchi

There’s something magical about a cozy evening spent cooking, and that’s when I often turn to One Skillet Butternut Squash Gnocchi. This dish is a celebration of flavors that come together in perfect harmony, and it brings warmth to every bite. The golden hues of the butternut squash, the comforting texture of the gnocchi, and the rich flavor of the sausage create an unforgettable experience. I remember the first time I made this dish; the aroma filled my kitchen, drawing my family in, and soon we were gathered around the table sharing stories and laughter. It’s not just a meal—it’s an invitation to slow down and savor the moment.

One Skillet Butternut Squash Gnocchi Shopping List

When it comes to cooking, the right ingredients can make all the difference. For this delicious One Skillet Butternut Squash Gnocchi, we’ll focus on fresh, quality ingredients that not only enhance the flavor but also work in harmony together. Each component plays a critical role in creating a dish that’s not only satisfying but also nutritious.

• Unsalted butter: 5 tablespoons, divided. This adds richness and depth to the dish.
• Ground sweet Italian turkey sausage: 1 pound, removed from casings if needed. This provides a savory and hearty base.
• Butternut squash: 1 small, about 1 1/4 pounds, cut into 1/2-inch cubes. This brings sweetness and a beautiful texture.
• Yellow onion: 1 small, diced, about 1 cup. Onion adds aromatic flavor.
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced. Garlic enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Kosher salt: ½ teaspoon, plus additional to taste. Essential for bringing out the flavors.
• Ground black pepper: ¼ teaspoon. Adds a little heat.
• Rubbed sage: 1 teaspoon or 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage. This herb elevates the dish with its earthy flavor.
• Ground nutmeg: ¼ teaspoon. Nutmeg adds a warm, aromatic flavor.
• Slow-sodium chicken broth: 1 ½ to 2 cups. This provides moisture and depth to the dish.
• Potato gnocchi: 1 pound. The star of the dish, contributing a delightful chewy texture.
• Baby spinach: 5 cups, loosely packed, about 5 ounces or 5 generous handfuls. Fresh greens add color and nutrition.
• Freshly grated Parmesan: ¼ cup, optional. This adds a creamy, salty finish to the dish.
• Red pepper flakes: A pinch, optional. For those who like a little kick!

Step by Step Guide for One Skillet Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Cooking One Skillet Butternut Squash Gnocchi is a delightful experience that comes together effortlessly. With just a few steps, you can create a flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into the simple process of bringing this meal to life.

1. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a very large skillet with a tight-fitting lid over medium-high heat. As the butter begins to melt, inhale that savory aroma—it’s the start of something wonderful. Once melted, add the sausage. Cook, breaking apart the meat with a spatula, until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes. Once done, transfer the sausage to a plate, letting it rest while you continue with the next steps.

2. Reduce the skillet heat to medium. Add the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, toss in the butternut squash and onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the squash is tender and golden, about 8 to 10 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want that lovely caramelization to develop, which will add depth to the dish.

3. Next, add the garlic, salt, pepper, rubbed sage (if you’re using fresh sage, wait to add it until the end), and nutmeg. Continue cooking for about 1 additional minute, allowing the garlic to soften and become fragrant. Your kitchen should smell heavenly at this point!

4. Add 1 ½ cups of chicken broth and the gnocchi to the skillet. Increase the heat to medium-high. Stir gently to coat the gnocchi, making sure it’s all submerged in that delicious broth. Cover the pan with a lid and let it cook, covered, until the gnocchi is just tender, approximately 5 minutes. Check occasionally to ensure it’s not sticking to the bottom.

5. Once the gnocchi is cooked to perfection, uncover the skillet and stir in the reserved sausage. Then, add the baby spinach a few handfuls at a time, allowing it to wilt down before adding more. If you like a looser sauce, don’t hesitate to add a bit more chicken broth to achieve your desired consistency.

6. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan and season to taste with additional salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Give everything a gentle toss to combine, then enjoy hot. This is where you can really dig in and appreciate all the hard work you put into this scrumptious dish!

Recipe Notes about One Skillet Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Every dish has its nuances, and One Skillet Butternut Squash Gnocchi is no exception. Here are some tips to help you get the best results.

• Storage: Refrigerate gnocchi in an airtight storage container for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Rewarm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of extra chicken broth or water to keep it from drying out.
• Freezing: Freeze leftovers in an airtight freezer-safe storage container for up to 3 months. Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Ingredient Availability: You can find packaged gnocchi near the pasta in your grocery store.
• Nutritional Info: Nutritional info is calculated as 1 of 5 servings, or about 1 1/2 heaping cups.

Side Dish Ideas for One Skillet Butternut Squash Gnocchi

When it comes to enjoying One Skillet Butternut Squash Gnocchi, the right side dishes can elevate your meal experience. Here are some perfect pairings:

• Garlic Bread: A warm slice of garlic bread makes for the perfect dipping companion!
• Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will complement the richness of the gnocchi.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots add a delightful crunch.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli is a nutritious and vibrant addition to your plate.
• Wine Pairing: Opt for a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio to balance the dish’s richness.
• Enjoy as a Main Course: This dish is hearty enough to serve as a stand-alone meal, making it great for lunch or dinner.
• Comfort for Winter Evenings: Serve this dish during cold months for a warm, comforting dinner.

FAQ

Conclusion

One Skillet Butternut Squash Gnocchi is truly a standout dish that combines comforting flavors and easy preparation. This recipe brings a heartwarming experience to your table, making it perfect for gatherings or solo dinners. I encourage you to give it a try—you won’t regret it!

One Skillet Butternut Squash Gnocchi

The ultimate comfort food, One Skillet Butternut Squash Gnocchi is a creamy, savory dish packed with flavor. Perfect for a cozy evening, this easy weeknight dinner will satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Italian

Servings 6 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• Skillet
• Frying Pan
• Grater
• Chef's Knife
• Cutting Board
• Wooden Spoon

Ingredients

  

• 5 tablespoons Unsalted butter divided
• 1 pound Ground sweet Italian turkey sausage removed from casings if needed
• 1 small Butternut squash about 1 1/4 pounds, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
• 1 small Yellow onion diced, about 1 cup
• 3 cloves Garlic minced
• ½ teaspoon Kosher salt plus additional to taste
• ¼ teaspoon Ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Rubbed sage or 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage
• ¼ teaspoon Ground nutmeg
• 1 ½ to 2 cups Slow-sodium chicken broth
• 1 pound Potato gnocchi
• 5 cups Baby spinach about 5 ounces or 5 generous handfuls
• ¼ cup Freshly grated Parmesan optional
• pinch Red pepper flakes optional

Instructions

 

• Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a very large skillet with a tight-fitting lid over medium high. Once the butter is melted, add the sausage. Cook, breaking apart the meat, until it is browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes. Transfer the sausage to a plate.
• Reduce the skillet heat to medium. Add the remaining 4 tablespoons butter. Once melted, add the butternut squash and onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the squash is tender and golden, about 8 to 10 minutes. Add the garlic, salt, pepper, rubbed sage (if using fresh sage, wait to add it until the end), and nutmeg. Continue cooking until the garlic is softened and fragrant, about 1 additional minute.
• Add 1 ½ cups chicken broth and gnocchi to the skillet. Increase the heat to medium high. Stir to coat the gnocchi, then cover the pan. Cook, covered, until the gnocchi is just tender, about 5 minutes. Uncover and stir in the sausage. Stir in the spinach a few handfuls at a time, allowing it to wilt. If you’d like a looser sauce, add a bit more chicken broth. Sprinkle with Parmesan and season to taste with additional salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Enjoy hot.

Notes

• Storage: Refrigerate gnocchi in an airtight storage container for up to 4 days.
• Reheat: Rewarm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of extra chicken broth or water to keep it from drying out.
• Freezing: Freeze leftovers in an airtight freezer-safe storage container for up to 3 months. Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Ingredient Availability: You can find packaged gnocchi near the pasta in your grocery store.
• Nutritional Info: Nutritional info is calculated as 1 of 5, or about 1 1/2 heaping cups.

Keyword Butternut Squash Gnocchi, comfort food, Easy Dinner Ideas, one skillet recipes

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Meet Natalie Cole

I’m Natalie! I appreciate simple, honest food that nourishes the soul without requiring hours of effort. I’m always looking for smart shortcuts that save time but never sacrifice quality or taste. I cooked and photographed this meal right here in our kitchen, capturing every step to show you that a beautiful, cozy dinner is completely within reach.