As the leaves turn golden and the air cools, I find myself drawn to cozy flavors that encapsulate the essence of autumn. One of my favorite kitchen moments happened last fall when I decided to turn a simple butternut squash into something magical. The result? Homemade Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sage Butter—a recipe that perfectly balances comfort with earthy elegance.
The soft, pillowy dumplings are made from lightly roasted butternut squash, a hint of nutmeg, and just enough flour to bring it all together. Drenched in a luxurious sage butter sauce that’s as fragrant as it is delicious, this dish transforms a handful of seasonal ingredients into a star-worthy meal. Whether it’s for an intimate weeknight dinner or to impress guests at a gathering, this gnocchi celebrates simple cooking while delivering rich, comforting flavors that remind us of home. Join me in recreating this heartwarming gem, and let’s savor the beauty of fall one delicious bite at a time!
Why Love Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sage Butter?
Comforting, this dish wraps you in cozy flavors, making it a true autumn favorite.
Easy to make, even beginners can master it with just a few simple steps.
Rich and creamy, the sage butter elevates the gnocchi to a restaurant-quality delight, perfect for impressing guests.
Seasonal goodness shines through with roasted squash and aromatic nutmeg, celebrating fall’s harvest.
Versatile by nature, you can swap ingredients or add toppings for a personal twist.
Elevate your dinner tonight and discover the joy of homemade goodness in every bite of this Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sage Butter!
Butternut Squash Gnocchi Ingredients
For the Gnocchi
- Butternut Squash – Adds natural sweetness and acts as the main ingredient; any winter squash can work as a substitute.
- Flour – This binds the gnocchi together; all-purpose flour is recommended, or use gluten-free flour if desired.
- Nutmeg – Infuses warm and aromatic notes; freshly grated nutmeg enhances the flavor profile significantly.
- Salt – Essential for balancing flavors; kosher or sea salt are great options to use here.
For the Sage Butter Sauce
- Butter – Richly enhances the dish; feel free to swap with olive oil for a dairy-free alternative.
- Sage – Imparts earthy flavors; fresh sage leaves are best but can be replaced with dried if fresh is unavailable.
Embrace the essence of autumn with this savory Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sage Butter recipe, where every ingredient shines!
How to Make Butternut Squash Gnocchi
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Roast Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Halve the butternut squash, scoop out the seeds, and place it cut-side down on a baking sheet. Roast for about 30-40 minutes, until tender and easily pierced with a fork.
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Mash and Combine: Once the roasted squash is cool enough to handle, scoop the flesh into a mixing bowl. Mash it thoroughly, then gradually mix in flour, nutmeg, and salt until a smooth dough forms. Aim for a soft consistency that isn’t sticky.
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Shape Gnocchi: Lightly flour your work surface. Divide the dough into manageable portions, rolling each into logs about ¾-inch thick. Cut the logs into small pieces, and use a fork to create grooves on each piece, helping them hold the sauce later.
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Boil Gnocchi: Bring a pot of salted water to a gentle boil. Drop in the gnocchi and cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until they float to the surface. This indicates they’re cooked through.
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Prepare Sage Butter: While the gnocchi cook, hop over to a pan and melt the butter over medium heat. Add in the fresh sage leaves and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, until the butter turns golden brown and the sage becomes fragrant.
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Combine and Serve: Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cooked gnocchi to the sage butter pan. Gently toss them together until the gnocchi are well-coated in the sauce. Serve immediately for a delightful, warm meal!
Optional: Garnish with extra sage leaves or toasted nuts for added crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sage Butter?
Elevate your cozy autumn meal with delightful sides and pairings that complement the warmth of this savory dish.
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Garlic Bread: The crispy, buttery crunch of garlic bread adds a delightful contrast to the soft gnocchi and enhances the overall flavor experience.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their earthy flavor and crispy texture provide a great balance to the sweet notes of the butternut squash, creating harmony on your plate.
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Crisp Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, walnuts, and a light vinaigrette brightens the meal while adding a refreshing crunch to each bite.
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Grilled Asparagus: Tender, grilled asparagus delivers a smoky flavor and a crisp texture that beautifully plays off the rich sage butter.
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Maple Glazed Carrots: Sweet and savory, these roasted carrots with a touch of maple syrup enhance the seasonal vibe and engage your senses.
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Red Wine: A glass of medium-bodied red, like Pinot Noir, complements the dish’s rich flavors and elevates your dining experience into something truly special.
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Cheesecake: End on a sweet note with a creamy slice of cheesecake. Its richness makes a wonderful contrast to the warm, earthy flavors lingering on your palate.
Embrace the essence of fall with these pairings, and create a heartwarming dining experience you’ll cherish!
Butternut Squash Gnocchi Variations
Get ready to play with this delightful recipe and create your very own unique twist!
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Sweet Potato: Swap out the butternut squash for sweet potatoes for a sweeter profile and delicious color contrast.
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Herb Infusion: Try adding chopped fresh thyme or rosemary into the dough for an aromatic touch that brightens each bite.
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Cheesy Finish: Top with freshly grated Parmesan or a sprinkle of vegan cheese to add a creamy richness that complements the sauce.
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Nutty Crunch: Garnish with toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a delightful crunch that elevates the texture and flavor.
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Creamy Sauce: For an extra indulgent twist, stir in a touch of heavy cream or coconut cream to the sage butter for a luxurious sauce.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sage butter for a warm kick that balances the sweetness of the gnocchi.
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Vegetable Medley: Toss in sautéed seasonal vegetables like spinach or kale with the finished dish for added nutrition and vibrant color.
These variations will take your Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sage Butter to a whole new level, inviting everyone to enjoy the flavors of fall—even more!
How to Store and Freeze Butternut Squash Gnocchi
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Room Temperature: Gnocchi should be served immediately after cooking. If left out too long, they may become sticky and lose their desirable texture.
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Fridge: Store any leftover gnocchi in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Ensure they are completely cool before sealing to reduce moisture buildup.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze uncooked gnocchi on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a zip-top bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
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Reheating: Cook frozen gnocchi directly from the freezer in boiling salted water until they float, then proceed to toss them in the sage butter. Avoid thawing to maintain texture.
Make Ahead Options
These Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sage Butter are perfect for busy weeknights, allowing you to prep in advance and savor delicious homemade flavors! You can make the gnocchi dough and shape the pieces up to 24 hours ahead; simply refrigerate them on a floured tray covered with plastic wrap to prevent sticking. For longer storage, freeze the uncooked gnocchi for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve, cook them directly from frozen in boiling salted water for about 4-5 minutes. Prepare the sage butter just before finishing by sautéing it fresh, ensuring a delightful flavor that’s just as vibrant as if made on the spot. Enjoy the time-saving benefits while enjoying a cozy meal!
Expert Tips for Butternut Squash Gnocchi
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Perfectly Roasted Squash: Ensure the butternut squash is fully tender before mashing; undercooked squash will lead to dense gnocchi.
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Gentle Handling: Avoid overworking the dough. This keeps your gnocchi light and fluffy rather than tough.
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Fork Groove Trick: Use a fork to create grooves on the gnocchi; this helps capture the sage butter and intensifies the flavor.
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Boiling Magic: Cook gnocchi until they float to the top in boiling water; this indicates they’re cooked through and ready for serving.
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Storage Wisdom: If making ahead, refrigerate gnocchi for up to a day, or freeze for longer storage. Cook from frozen without thawing for best results.
Embrace these tips to master your Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sage Butter and create a cozy, autumnal dish!
Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sage Butter Recipe FAQs
What type of butternut squash should I use?
Absolutely! Look for a butternut squash that feels heavy for its size, with a smooth, firm skin and no dark spots. The sweeter and fresher the squash, the better your gnocchi will taste! If butternut isn’t available, feel free to substitute with any other winter squash, like acorn or kabocha.
How should I store leftover gnocchi?
To keep your gnocchi fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They can remain good for up to 3 days. Make sure they have cooled completely to avoid moisture buildup that can lead to stickiness!
Can I freeze uncooked gnocchi?
Yes, you can! I often prepare a double batch to freeze. Simply place the uncooked gnocchi on a baking sheet in a single layer, making sure they’re not touching. Freeze until firm, about 1-2 hours, then transfer them to a zip-top bag. They can stay frozen for up to 3 months! When you’re ready to cook them, drop them directly into boiling water without thawing.
How can I avoid dense gnocchi?
A great question! To ensure your gnocchi are light and airy, make sure your butternut squash is fully tender before mashing; it helps maintain a lighter texture. Also, handle the dough gently and avoid overworking it—this makes a big difference. After boiling, only cook until they float to the top of boiling water, which indicates they’re fully cooked.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians or those with food allergies?
Yes! This Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sage Butter is vegetarian and can easily be made dairy-free by substituting the butter with olive oil. Be cautious about allergies; check that your flour is gluten-free if necessary, and ensure that your sage does not have any added preservatives or allergens.
What’s the best way to serve butternut squash gnocchi?
The more the merrier! I recommend serving the gnocchi immediately after tossing them in the sage butter. Garnish with extra sage leaves, toasted nuts, or a sprinkle of Parmesan or nutritional yeast for a lovely crunch and additional flavor. Enjoy every comforting bite!
Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sage Butter: A Cozy Fall Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Halve the butternut squash, scoop out the seeds, and place it cut-side down on a baking sheet. Roast for about 30-40 minutes, until tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- Once the roasted squash is cool enough to handle, scoop the flesh into a mixing bowl. Mash it thoroughly, then gradually mix in flour, nutmeg, and salt until a smooth dough forms.
- Lightly flour your work surface. Divide the dough into manageable portions, rolling each into logs about ¾-inch thick. Cut the logs into small pieces, creating grooves with a fork.
- Bring a pot of salted water to a gentle boil. Drop in the gnocchi and cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
- While the gnocchi cooks, melt the butter over medium heat in a pan. Add in the fresh sage leaves and sauté for about 2-3 minutes.
- Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cooked gnocchi to the sage butter pan. Gently toss them until well-coated. Serve immediately.