The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

If you’re looking for a cozy dish to warm your heart and fill your belly, then let me introduce you to The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi! This recipe is a delightful blend of roasted butternut squash and garlic, creating a rich sauce that envelops tender gnocchi. Topped with crispy turkey strips and creamy mozzarella, it’s a comforting meal perfect for those busy weeknights or family gatherings. Trust me, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen!

Imagine coming home after a long day and being able to whip up this delicious meal in just an hour. It’s not only satisfying but also packed with wholesome ingredients that everyone will love. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting friends, this gnocchi is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With simple steps and minimal fuss, you’ll have dinner on the table in no time!
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the comforting flavors of this dish.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare the sauce ahead of time, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
• Deliciously flavorful: The combination of roasted squash, fresh herbs, and creamy mozzarella makes every bite irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi is easy! These are all simple, wholesome items you likely have on hand or can find at your local store.

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)
• 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 with these variations.

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken or even plant-based alternatives for a different flavor profile.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale for extra nutrients and color.
• Change up the cheese: If you don’t have mozzarella, use gouda or cheddar for a unique twist.
• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free gnocchi if needed so everyone can enjoy!

How to Make The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first! Preheat your oven to 180ºC. This ensures that your vegetables start roasting right away, allowing their natural sweetness to develop beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

Place those gorgeous butternut squash cubes, sliced onion, and peeled garlic on a baking tray. Sprinkle them with rosemary and drizzle with olive oil. This combination creates a flavorful base that’s simply irresistible!

Step 3: Roast the Vegetables

Pop the tray into your preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes. You’re looking for tender onions and golden garlic alongside soft squash. Roasting brings out such wonderful flavors—don’t skip this step!

Step 4: Make the Purée

Once roasted, transfer everything to a food processor or blender. Blend until smooth, adding water as needed to create a thick purée. This creamy base is what makes our sauce so special!

Step 5: Cook the Turkey Strips

In a medium frying pan with high sides, heat a teaspoon of olive oil over medium heat. Fry those turkey strips until they’re crispy; this adds texture and flavor that complements our gnocchi perfectly.

Step 6: Prepare the Gnocchi

Spoon that lovely butternut squash purée into your frying pan along with some water and milk. Stir in your gnocchi gently simmer uncovered for about 8-10 minutes until they’re tender. It’s starting to come together beautifully!

Step 7: Finish the Sauce

Stir in grated parmesan cheese and lemon juice for brightness! Adjust seasoning based on your taste preferences. Add half of those crispy turkey strips back into the mix along with some reserved fat—this makes everything extra delicious.

Step 8: Melt the Mozzarella

Now comes my favorite part: topping! Place torn mozzarella over the gnocchi mixture and pop it under the grill (broiler) for about five minutes until melted and bubbly. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Finally, top your dish with remaining turkey strips, cracked black pepper, walnuts, and fresh parsley for garnish. Serve warm—it’s comfort food at its best! Enjoy every bite of The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi—you’ve earned it!

Pro Tips for Making The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Making gnocchi can seem daunting, but with a few helpful hints, you’ll create a dish that’s not only delicious but also comforting and satisfying!

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

• Don’t skip the roasting: Roasting the squash, garlic, and onion enhances their natural flavors through caramelization, resulting in a richer sauce that elevates your gnocchi.

• Adjust the texture: If your purée is too thick, add a splash of water or milk to achieve the desired consistency. A smoother sauce helps the gnocchi absorb more flavor.

• Simmer gently: When cooking the gnocchi in the sauce, keep the heat at medium-low to avoid overcooking. This allows the gnocchi to soak up all those wonderful flavors without becoming mushy.

• Experiment with herbs: While rosemary is delicious, feel free to try other herbs such as sage or thyme for a different flavor profile that complements the butternut squash beautifully.

How to Serve The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

This dish is not only pleasing to the palate but also visually appealing. Here are some creative ideas to present your butternut squash gnocchi beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of vibrant green parsley adds freshness and color, balancing out the richness of the dish.
• Cracked black pepper: A dash of freshly cracked black pepper provides warmth and depth, enhancing all those lovely flavors.
• Grated parmesan: Additional grated parmesan on top brings an extra savory kick that cheese lovers will appreciate.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: A warm loaf of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate. Its crunchy exterior and soft inside make it irresistible.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light mixed green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy gnocchi, adding crispness and brightness.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These can be seasoned simply with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Their slight bitterness pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the butternut squash.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds nutrition and vibrant color while providing a nice crunch alongside your tender gnocchi.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re sure to impress your family or guests with The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This butternut squash gnocchi is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your gnocchi:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the gnocchi to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate.
• Consume within 3-4 days for the best quality.

Freezing

• Prepare the gnocchi as instructed but do not melt the mozzarella.
• Let it cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or milk if needed.
• Stir gently until heated through; if desired, you can add more mozzarella to melt on top.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful dish!

What makes The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi so special?

The combination of roasted butternut squash and garlic creates a rich, comforting flavour that is beautifully complemented by crispy turkey and creamy mozzarella. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience!

Can I use other types of squash for The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi?

Absolutely! While butternut squash gives a wonderful sweetness, you can experiment with other varieties like acorn or pumpkin. Just keep an eye on cooking times as they may vary.

How do I ensure my gnocchi doesn’t become mushy?

To prevent mushiness, avoid overcooking your gnocchi. Follow the cooking time closely and stir gently while simmering. If you’re making this ahead of time, ensure it’s cooled completely before storing.

Can I make The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi vegan?

Yes! You can substitute dairy products with plant-based alternatives. Use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan and almond or oat milk in place of regular milk for a delicious vegan twist!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this comforting bowl of The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi as much as I do! It’s such a warm, hearty dish that brings joy to any dinner table. Don’t hesitate to put your own spin on it—maybe add some extra herbs or your favorite vegetables! Enjoy every bite, and happy cooking!