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Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage, Thyme, and Sage

Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage, Thyme, and Sage

This Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage, Thyme, and Sage is the ultimate autumn comfort dish. Soft potato gnocchi and savory Italian sausage are coated in a silky butternut squash cream sauce infused with garlic and fresh herbs. It’s a one-pan meal that feels elegant enough for entertaining yet quick and simple enough for a busy weeknight.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz Italian sausage, casings removed and sliced

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 10 oz potato gnocchi (uncooked)

  • 1 cup heavy cream

  • ½ cup chicken broth

  • 1 cup butternut squash purée

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped (divided)

  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme (divided)

  • Salt and coarsely ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  • Brown the Sausage
    Heat olive oil in a large, high-sided skillet over medium heat. Add sliced sausage and cook for about 4 minutes on one side without turning to develop a good sear. Flip and cook 2 more minutes until browned.

  • Cook the Gnocchi
    To the same skillet, add uncooked gnocchi, heavy cream, and chicken broth. Stir well and bring to a boil over medium heat. Cover and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gnocchi are tender.

  • Make the Sauce
    Stir in butternut squash purée and minced garlic. Bring back to a gentle boil, then reduce to low-medium heat. Cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring, until the sauce thickens and the garlic is cooked.

  • Finish with Herbs
    Remove from heat. Stir in half of the sage and thyme. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper, adjusting carefully depending on how salty your sausage is.

  • Serve
    Garnish with the remaining sage and thyme and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Prep ahead: Roast the butternut squash and make the purée in advance to keep this meal quick.

  • Sauce thickness: Simmer a bit longer if you prefer a thicker, more luxurious sauce.

  • Herb swaps: If using dried thyme, use ½ teaspoon dried (or ¼ teaspoon powdered).

  • Extra flavor: Finish with grated Parmesan or a drizzle of brown butter for added richness.