The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

If you’re looking for a dish that wraps you in warmth and comfort, then let me introduce you to The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi. This recipe has become a cherished favorite in my home, perfect for those chilly evenings when all you want is something hearty and delicious. The combination of roasted butternut squash and garlic creates a rich sauce that’s simply irresistible, while the crispy turkey strips add a delightful crunch. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, this dish is sure to bring smiles around the table.

What makes this gnocchi truly special is how easy it is to prepare. You can whip it up in just about an hour, making it ideal for any occasion. Plus, the flavors are so comforting that it feels like a warm hug in every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 60 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Family-Friendly: With its creamy texture and pleasant flavors, everyone will love this comforting meal.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the sauce in advance—just heat it up and cook the gnocchi when you’re ready!
• Deliciously Nutritious: Packed with wholesome ingredients like butternut squash and walnuts, it’s as good for you as it tastes.
• Versatile Flavor: The balance of sweet squash and savory turkey strips means there’s something for everyone.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! For this recipe, you’ll need simple yet wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

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 this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and make it your own. Here are some ideas:

• Swap the protein: If turkey isn’t your thing, try chicken or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
• Add greens: Toss in some spinach or kale during cooking for an extra boost of color and nutrients.
• Change up the cheese: Parmesan can be replaced with pecorino or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free twist.
• Experiment with spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon to elevate the flavor profile of the butternut squash.

How to Make The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 180ºC. This ensures that everything cooks evenly right from the beginning.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

Place those lovely butternut squash cubes, sliced onion, and peeled garlic on a baking tray. Sprinkle with rosemary and drizzle with olive oil. This step is crucial because roasting brings out their natural sweetness and depth of flavor.

Step 3: Roast the Vegetables

Bake everything in your preheated oven for about 30 minutes. You want those onions to be tender and golden, while the squash should be soft enough to mash easily.

Step 4: Make the Purée

Once roasted, transfer everything to a food processor or blender. Blend until smooth! If it’s too thick, add a splash of water until you get that perfect purée consistency.

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. Fry those turkey strips until they’re crispy—this adds such great texture! Once done, set them aside in a small bowl.

Step 6: Prepare the Gnocchi

Spoon your beautiful butternut squash purée into that same frying pan. Add 75 ml of water along with milk before stirring in the gnocchi. Let it simmer uncovered for about 8-10 minutes until tender; this allows all those flavors to meld beautifully!

Step 7: Finish That Sauce

Stir in grated parmesan cheese and lemon juice; taste as you go! Adjust seasoning if needed before adding half of those crispy turkey strips along with some reserved fat for added flavor.

Step 8: Melt That 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 bubbly and golden.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Finally, top everything off with remaining turkey strips, cracked black pepper, walnuts, and fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy every delicious bite!

This comforting dish will surely become a favorite in your home just like it has in mine!

Pro Tips for Making The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Making gnocchi can be a delightful experience, and with a few pro tips, you’ll ensure that your dish turns out perfectly every time!

• Choose ripe butternut squash: The flavor of your gnocchi largely depends on the squash. A ripe, sweet squash will give your dish a rich taste that shines through.
• Don’t rush the roasting: Allowing the squash and garlic to roast until golden enhances their flavors. This step is essential for creating a depth of flavor in your sauce.
• Adjust the consistency: If your purée is too thick, feel free to add a touch more water or milk to achieve a smooth texture. This will help the gnocchi absorb the sauce beautifully.
• Simmer gently: When cooking the gnocchi, keep the heat low and let them simmer gently. This prevents them from becoming mushy and ensures they cook evenly.
• Experiment with herbs: Feel free to swap out rosemary for other herbs like sage or thyme for an interesting twist on flavor. Fresh herbs can elevate your dish in unexpected ways!

How to Serve The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Serving this beautiful butternut squash gnocchi can be as creative as you want it to be! Here are some ideas to make your presentation pop and enhance the dining experience.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of vibrant parsley adds color and freshness, balancing out the richness of the dish.
• Cracked black pepper: A light dusting of freshly cracked black pepper provides a lovely kick and enhances all the flavors.
• Grated lemon zest: Adding a touch of lemon zest right before serving brightens the dish and complements the sweetness of the squash.

Side Dishes

• Mixed greens salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy gnocchi.
• Roasted Brussels sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts provide a delightful crunch and earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with butternut squash.
• Garlic bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread makes for perfect dipping into any leftover sauce from your gnocchi and adds a satisfying element to your meal.
• Steamed green beans: Lightly steamed green beans bring a pop of color and texture, making for an elegant side that complements the richness of this dish.

With these serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress at your next cozy gathering! Enjoy every bite of The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi!

Make Ahead and Storage

This butternut squash gnocchi is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make this dish in advance, save time during busy weekdays, and enjoy the comforting flavors throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the gnocchi to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Keep the turkey strips separate if possible to maintain their crispiness.

Freezing

• To freeze, ensure the gnocchi is fully cooled and then place it in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or milk to keep it creamy.
• Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals, stirring in between until heated through.

FAQs

Got questions? No worries! Here are some common queries about The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi:

Can I make The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free gnocchi instead of traditional varieties. This will ensure everyone can enjoy this delightful dish.

How can I enhance the flavors in The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi?

Feel free to add extra herbs like thyme or sage, or even sprinkle some red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. These additions can elevate the flavors beautifully!

What should I serve with The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi?

A fresh side salad or steamed vegetables pairs wonderfully. You could also consider a light drizzle of balsamic glaze for added depth.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi! This dish brings together comforting flavors that warm your heart and fill your home with delightful aromas. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cozy night in or sharing it with loved ones, it’s bound to become a favorite. Don’t hesitate to try it out—happy cooking!