The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

If you’re looking for a warm, comforting meal that feels like a big hug on a plate, then you’ll love The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi! This dish is not just delicious; it’s incredibly easy to prepare and perfect for cozy nights in or family gatherings. The rich flavors of roasted butternut squash and garlic create a beautiful sauce that clings perfectly to the gnocchi, while crispy turkey strips add an extra layer of texture. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it might just become your new favorite!

This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying yet simple. You can also make it ahead of time—just reheat when you’re ready to serve. Let’s dive into why this recipe has earned its “BEST” title!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the soft gnocchi and creamy mozzarella, making it an ideal choice for family dinners.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Easily prepare the sauce in advance and reheat it when you’re ready to enjoy!
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with wholesome veggies and lean turkey, this dish is as healthy as it is tasty.
• Versatile Flavors: Enjoy it on its own or add your favorite toppings for a unique twist each time!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is half the fun of cooking! For this gnocchi recipe, you’ll need fresh produce and pantry staples that work together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

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 (2 tablespoons))
• 75 ml milk

For the Topping

• 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 how flexible it can be! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use chicken or even grilled vegetables instead of turkey for a different flavor experience.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale at the end for extra nutrients and color.
• Change up the cheese: Try goat cheese or feta if you’re looking for a tangy twist!
• Make it vegan: Substitute turkey with chickpeas or lentils, and use plant-based milk with nutritional yeast instead of parmesan.

How to Make The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheating your oven is crucial because it helps roast the squash evenly. Set your oven to 180ºC so it’s hot and ready when you need it.

Step 2: Prepare the Squash and Vegetables

Toss those lovely butternut squash cubes, sliced onion, and peeled garlic onto a baking tray. Sprinkle them with fresh rosemary and drizzle with olive oil. This step allows all those flavors to meld together beautifully as they roast.

Step 3: Roast the Vegetables

Pop the tray in your preheated oven! Roast everything for about 30 minutes until tender. The goal here is to caramelize those onions and garlic while making the squash soft enough to blend smoothly later.

Step 4: Make the Purée

Once your veggies are roasted, transfer them to a food processor or blender. Blend them until smooth—adding a bit of water if necessary—to achieve that creamy texture that will coat your gnocchi perfectly.

Step 5: Cook the Turkey Strips

In a medium frying pan with high sides, heat a teaspoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add in your turkey strips or slices until they are crispy. This gives your dish a wonderful crunch that complements all that creaminess from earlier!

Step 6: Prepare the Gnocchi

Spoon in your butternut squash purée into that frying pan along with some water and milk. Stir in those gnocchi gently! Let them simmer uncovered for about 8-10 minutes until tender; it’s important not to rush this step so they soak up all those delicious flavors.

Step 7: Finish the Sauce

Stir in grated parmesan cheese along with some lemon juice—this brightens up everything! Remember to taste as you go; adjust seasoning if needed. Add half of your crispy turkey strips along with some reserved fat from cooking them earlier.

Step 8: Melt the Mozzarella

Place those torn mozzarella pieces on top of your gnocchi mixture. Now comes my favorite part—pop that pan under the grill (or broiler) for about five minutes until it’s bubbly and golden!

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Get ready to impress! Top off your dish with remaining turkey strips, cracked black pepper, walnuts, and fresh parsley before serving warm at dinner. Enjoy every bite!

And there you have it—the BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi! It’s sure to become a new staple in your home just like it has in mine. Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Making gnocchi can seem daunting, but with these simple tips, you’ll be able to impress your family and friends with this comforting dish!

• Use fresh butternut squash: Fresh produce will give your gnocchi a richer flavor compared to pre-packaged options. It makes all the difference in creating that warm, cozy vibe.

• Don’t rush the roasting: Allow the squash and garlic to roast until they’re golden and tender. This caramelization enhances the natural sweetness of the squash and adds depth to your sauce.

• Blend until smooth: For a velvety texture, ensure your purée is completely smooth. If you find it too thick, just add a little water slowly until you reach your desired consistency.

• Cook the gnocchi gently: Simmering the gnocchi too vigorously can make them mushy. A gentle simmer ensures they cook evenly while maintaining their shape.

• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add additional herbs or spices according to your taste preferences. Sage or nutmeg can introduce interesting flavors that perfectly complement the butternut squash.

How to Serve The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Presenting your butternut squash gnocchi beautifully can enhance the dining experience! Here are some simple yet effective ways to serve this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness, balancing out the richness of the dish.
• Cracked black pepper: A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper provides a subtle heat that enhances the overall flavor.
• Toasted walnuts: Adding some extra chopped toasted walnuts on top gives a satisfying crunch and a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: Tossed in olive oil and seasoned with salt, these crispy Brussels sprouts offer a delightful contrast to the soft gnocchi.
• Garlic bread: Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your plate, making each bite even more enjoyable.
• Mixed green salad: A light salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides freshness that balances out the richness of the gnocchi.
• Steamed asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus not only adds vibrant color but also brings a crisp texture that complements the creamy gnocchi beautifully.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to create an enchanting meal featuring The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi! Enjoy every comforting bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This butternut squash gnocchi recipe is a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy its comforting flavors throughout the week. Whether you’re planning for busy weeknights or hosting friends, this dish can easily be made ahead of time and stored for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the gnocchi to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Cool the gnocchi completely and portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label the containers with the date and name of the dish.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or milk to prevent sticking.
• Alternatively, reheat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi.

Can I use fresh butternut squash instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Using fresh butternut squash will enhance the flavor of The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi, providing a delightful sweetness and texture.

How can I make The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi vegan?

To make this dish vegan-friendly, substitute dairy milk with plant-based milk and omit the cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.

What can I serve with The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi?

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. You could also serve it with crusty bread for dipping!

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! You can use gluten-free gnocchi available at many grocery stores to create a delicious gluten-free version of The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi.

Final Thoughts

This recipe for butternut squash gnocchi is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and comfort to your dining table. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do! Don’t hesitate to try it out and share your thoughts; I’d love to hear how it turned out for you!