The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then you’ve come to the right place! The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi is one of those recipes that brings joy to any meal. Imagine the aroma of roasted butternut squash and garlic filling your kitchen, while the creamy mozzarella and crispy turkey strips create a symphony of flavors in every bite. This comforting dish is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, making it a favorite in my home.

What truly makes this recipe special is its balance of simplicity and indulgence. You can whip it up in just an hour, yet it feels gourmet enough to impress your loved ones. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into this delightful adventure of flavors!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: With just 60 minutes from prep to plate, you’ll have a delicious meal without spending all day in the kitchen.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy texture and hearty flavors—perfect for picky eaters!
• Make-ahead option: Prepare the butternut squash purée in advance for an even quicker dinner on those busy nights.
• Comforting flavors: The combination of roasted squash and garlic creates a rich sauce that warms your heart with every bite.
• Versatile ingredients: You can easily swap in your favorite veggies or proteins if you want to mix things up!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that make this dish shine. You might already have some of them in your pantry! Let’s gather what we need to create this comforting bowl of goodness.

For the Gnocchi

• 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
• 500 g shelf-stable gnocchi
• 50 g parmesan (grated)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 30 g walnuts (roughly chopped, about 2 tablespoons)
• 75 ml milk
• 50 g turkey strips or turkey slices (chopped)
• 1 ball of fresh mozzarella (torn into 4-6 pieces)

Variations

The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with these variations to suit your taste or dietary needs:

• Swap the protein: If turkey isn’t your thing, try chicken or plant-based strips for a different twist.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition and color.
• Change the nuts: Pecans or pine nuts instead of walnuts can bring a delightful crunch and flavor variation.
• Make it vegan: Use dairy-free cheese options and substitute the milk with almond or oat milk for a vegan-friendly version!

How to Make The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 180ºC. This ensures that when we roast our vegetables, they get perfectly caramelized—bringing out their natural sweetness!

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

Grab a baking tray and toss those butternut squash cubes, sliced onion, and peeled garlic together. Sprinkle with rosemary and drizzle with olive oil. This step not only enhances flavor but also makes sure everything roasts evenly.

Step 3: Roast the Vegetables

Pop that tray into the oven for about 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the onions are golden and tender while the squash is soft. Roasting is key here; it deepens the flavors and gives us that lovely caramelization.

Step 4: Make the Purée

Once roasted, transfer your vegetables into a food processor or blender. Blend until smooth—don’t forget to add a splash of water if needed! This purée serves as our rich sauce base that ties everything together beautifully.

Step 5: Cook the Turkey Strips

In a medium frying pan with high sides, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add your turkey strips until crispy. This adds texture to our dish! Remember to save those crispy bits—they’re packed with flavor.

Step 6: Prepare the Gnocchi

Spoon your luscious butternut squash purée back into that frying pan along with water and milk. Stir in gnocchi gently as they simmer uncovered for about 8-10 minutes until tender. This allows them to soak up all those wonderful flavors!

Step 7: Finish the Sauce

Stir in grated parmesan cheese and lemon juice at this stage. Adjust seasoning as needed—it’s all about balance! Add half of those crispy turkey strips along with some reserved fat for extra flavor.

Step 8: Melt the Mozzarella

Top your gnocchi with torn mozzarella pieces before placing it under the grill (broiler) for around five minutes until melted. Just imagine how good it smells right now!

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Finally, finish by topping with remaining turkey strips, cracked black pepper, walnuts, and fresh parsley for an elegant touch. Serve warm—this is comfort food at its finest!

Pro Tips for Making The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Creating the perfect butternut squash gnocchi is easier than you might think, and these pro tips will help you elevate your dish to a whole new level!

• Choose ripe squash: Using a fresh, ripe butternut squash ensures that your gnocchi is sweet and flavorful. Look for firm squash with a smooth skin and deep color.

• Don’t rush the roasting: Roasting the vegetables until they are golden enhances their natural sweetness and creates a depth of flavor that makes your sauce irresistible.

• Use a food processor for smoothness: Blending your roasted ingredients into a smooth purée gives the gnocchi a creamy texture, which is essential for the overall mouthfeel of the dish.

• Cook gnocchi in batches if needed: If you’re making a larger batch, cooking the gnocchi in smaller portions helps maintain their tenderness and prevents them from clumping together.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: The balance of flavors can vary based on personal preference. Be sure to taste your purée before adding it to the gnocchi, so you can adjust salt, pepper, or acidity as desired.

How to Serve The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Presenting your butternut squash gnocchi beautifully can make all the difference at your dinner table! Here are some ideas to make this comforting dish shine.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of this bright herb adds color and freshness that complements the richness of the dish.
• Cracked black pepper: Adding freshly cracked pepper enhances the flavor profile and adds a bit of heat to balance out the creaminess.
• Grated parmesan: A light dusting of more parmesan cheese right before serving gives an extra cheesy finish that’s hard to resist!

Side Dishes

• Simple arugula salad: A light salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich gnocchi.
• Roasted Brussels sprouts: Their nutty flavor pairs perfectly with butternut squash. Toss them with olive oil and salt before roasting until crispy.
• Garlic bread: A warm loaf of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your plate—a comforting accompaniment!
• Steamed green beans: Bright green beans lightly seasoned with salt add color and crunch to your meal while enhancing its nutritional value.

Enjoy serving this delightful dish! Your family and friends will be coming back for seconds—and maybe even thirds!

Make Ahead and Storage

This butternut squash gnocchi recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a comforting dish even on the busiest of days. You can easily store leftovers or prepare it in advance for a quick weeknight dinner.

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 flavor and texture.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the gnocchi cool completely.
• Place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or milk to prevent sticking.
• Stir occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them, covered, on medium power until warmed.

FAQs

If you have questions about this delicious recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries:

Can I make The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi without dairy?

Absolutely! You can substitute the milk with a plant-based alternative like almond milk or soy milk to make this dish dairy-free.

What is the best way to cook The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi?

The best way to cook this gnocchi is by gently simmering it in the butternut squash purée until tender. This method infuses all that delicious flavor into the gnocchi!

Can I use other types of squash?

Yes! While butternut squash adds a lovely sweetness and texture, you can also experiment with acorn squash or pumpkin for different flavors.

How can I add more protein to The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi?

Adding cooked chickpeas or lentils can boost the protein content while keeping the dish hearty and satisfying!

Final Thoughts

This recipe for butternut squash gnocchi is not just a delightful meal; it’s also a warm hug on a plate! With its rich flavors from roasted squash and garlic, topped off with crispy turkey strips and gooey mozzarella, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. I sincerely hope you enjoy making this dish as much as I do – it’s such a treat! Don’t hesitate to share your thoughts after trying it; I’d love to hear how it turned out for you!