Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage

Looking for a warm, cozy meal that’s packed with flavor and nutrition? This Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage recipe combines the earthy sweetness of roasted butternut squash with tender whole wheat gnocchi and savory chicken sausage.

With a combination of wholesome ingredients like kale, garlic, sage and thyme, this recipe offers a delicious balance of comfort food and healthy eating. Plus, it’s simple to make and fits perfectly into any fall menu!

Why You’ll Love This Butternut Squash and Gnocchi Recipe

There’s something irresistible about the combination of butternut squash with gnocchi. The natural sweetness of roasted squash blends seamlessly with the pillowy texture of gnocchi, creating a perfect base for a creamy sauce. Add in savory chicken sausage and nutrient-dense kale, and you’ve got a meal that’s not only delicious but also full of protein and fiber!

For those wondering how to make butternut squash gnocchi, this recipe keeps things simple by using store-bought whole wheat gnocchi, which is quick to cook and adds a hearty, wholesome touch to the meal. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen.

Star Ingredients

One of the key components of this gnocchi and butternut squash recipe is the roasted butternut squash, a seasonal vegetable that’s loaded with health benefits. Butternut squash is rich in vitamins A and C, which are great for supporting immune function and keeping your skin healthy. It’s also high in fiber, helping to keep you full longer, and low in calories, making it an excellent addition to a balanced diet.

Kale, another superfood included in this recipe, is packed with vitamins K, A and C, as well as antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Paired together, butternut squash and kale provide a powerhouse of nutrition that makes this dish a guilt-free indulgence.

How to Make Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage

This butternut squash and gnocchi recipe starts with roasting cubed butternut squash in the oven until it’s soft and caramelized, bringing out its natural sweetness. The roasted squash is then blended with milk and low-sodium chicken broth to create a creamy butternut squash sauce that coats the gnocchi perfectly.

The next step involves sautéing sliced chicken sausage with garlic and fresh herbs like sage and thyme. These herbs bring a lovely, earthy aroma that complements the rich flavors of the sausage and butternut squash sauce.

Once the sausage is browned and the kale is wilted, the cooked gnocchi is added to the pan. Finally, everything is gently tossed in the creamy sauce.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy butternut squash gnocchi is a satisfying meal on its own, but you can also serve it with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables to round out your plate. A glass of white wine, like a crisp Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay, pairs beautifully with the creamy, savory notes of the dish.

If you’re meal-prepping, this recipe stores well and can be reheated for lunch or dinner the next day. The flavors deepen as they sit, making it just as delicious—if not more—after it’s had some time to rest in the fridge.

Customizing Your Gnocchi and Butternut Squash Recipe

One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is. While it’s already packed with flavor, you can easily customize it to fit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

• Make it vegetarian: Swap the chicken sausage for a plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty, vegetarian-friendly version.
• Add more veggies: If you’re looking to pack in even more vegetables, feel free to add roasted Brussels sprouts, spinach or even some caramelized onions.
• Try a different gnocchi: While this recipe calls for whole wheat gnocchi, you could also try it with sweet potato gnocchi or cauliflower gnocchi for a gluten-free alternative.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or sauté the sausage with a little crushed fennel seed to give the dish a bit of a kick.

A Comforting Fall Favorite

This butternut squash gnocchi sausage recipe is a perfect example of how comfort food can also be nutritious and balanced. With the combination of whole wheat gnocchi, lean chicken sausage and nutrient-rich vegetables, this dish offers a well-rounded meal that’s both satisfying and wholesome.

At just 272 calories per serving, it’s also a great option for those looking to enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal without overindulging. If you’re on a Nutrisystem plan, you can count each serving as one SmartCarb, one PowerFuel and half of a Vegetable serving.

Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner for your family or hosting friends for a cozy fall gathering, this butternut squash with gnocchi recipe is sure to impress. Try it out and enjoy the delicious flavors of the season!

Looking for more delicious ways to cook with butternut squash? Try our recipe for Butternut Squash Stuffed Shells with Alfredo Sauce!