If you’re looking for a dish that wraps you in warmth and comfort, look no further than The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi. This recipe has been a treasured part of my kitchen for years, bringing smiles to everyone who digs in. It’s the kind of meal that warms your heart, perfect for cozy nights in or family gatherings where stories are shared over hearty plates.

The roasted butternut squash and garlic create a rich sauce that is so flavorful, while the crisp turkey strips and gooey mozzarella add layers of deliciousness. Trust me; this gnocchi will become a favorite in your home too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to prepare: With simple steps, you can whip up this delicious dish without any fuss.
Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves gnocchi! This recipe is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
Perfect for meal prep: Make it ahead of time and simply reheat – ideal for busy weeknights.
Rich flavors: The combination of roasted squash and fresh herbs delivers a taste sensation that is hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for this delightful dish. You probably have many of these on hand already!

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 (2 tablespoons))
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! Here are a few ideas to customize it to your taste:

Add greens: Toss in some spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for an extra nutrient boost.
Make it vegan: Substitute the turkey with sautéed mushrooms and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan for a cheesy flavor.
Change up the nuts: Swap walnuts for pecans or pine nuts to change the texture and flavor profile.
Experiment with spices: Add a dash of nutmeg or chili flakes for a warming twist.

How to Make The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Step 1: Roast the Vegetables

Preheat your oven to 180ºC. Start by placing those lovely butternut squash cubes, sliced onion, and peeled garlic on a baking tray. Sprinkle with rosemary and drizzle olive oil over everything. Roasting these veggies not only brings out their natural sweetness but also creates an aromatic base for our sauce.

Step 2: Blend into Purée

After about 30 minutes in the oven, check your veggies. They should be tender and golden. Now it’s time to transfer them into a food processor or blender! Blend until smooth; don’t hesitate to add a splash of water if needed. This thick purée will serve as the rich foundation for our gnocchi dish.

Step 3: Cook the Turkey Strips

In a medium frying pan with high sides, heat just a teaspoon of olive oil over medium heat. Fry those turkey strips until they turn crispy! This step adds texture and flavor that beautifully complements our creamy sauce.

Step 4: Simmer the Gnocchi

Spoon that luscious butternut squash purée back into your frying pan along with 75 ml of water and milk. Stir in your gnocchi gently, letting them simmer uncovered for about 8-10 minutes until tender. This will allow them to soak up all those wonderful flavors.

Step 5: Finish Your Sauce

Stir in grated parmesan cheese and freshly squeezed lemon juice, adjusting seasoning as necessary. Add half of those crispy turkey strips along with some reserved fat from cooking them; this enhances the overall taste.

Step 6: Melt the Mozzarella

Now comes one of my favorite parts! Scatter torn mozzarella pieces over your gnocchi mixture. Pop it under the grill (or broiler) for about five minutes until melty and heavenly.

Step 7: Garnish & Serve

Finally, it’s time to plate up! Top off your masterpiece with remaining turkey strips, cracked black pepper, walnuts, and some fresh parsley for color. Serve hot, sit back, and enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Making gnocchi can feel intimidating, but with these handy tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a comforting bowl of goodness that everyone will love!

Choose fresh squash: Using fresh butternut squash instead of pre-packaged options enhances the flavor and ensures a smoother purée, making for a richer sauce.
Don’t rush the roasting: Allowing the squash and garlic to roast until golden not only develops their sweetness but also adds layers of flavor to your dish.
Perfectly cook the gnocchi: Keep an eye on the gnocchi while simmering. Overcooking can lead to mushy gnocchi, so aim for that perfect tender texture.
Experiment with herbs: If you’re feeling adventurous, add other herbs like sage or thyme along with rosemary for more complex flavors in your sauce.
Adjust seasoning wisely: Always taste before serving! A squeeze of lemon or a pinch of salt can elevate the dish and bring out all those wonderful flavors you’ve built.

How to Serve The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Presentation is key when serving this delicious dish. A few thoughtful touches can turn your meal into a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds!

Garnishes

Fresh parsley: Sprinkling chopped parsley over your finished dish adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors beautifully.
Cracked black pepper: A few twists of cracked black pepper not only enhance flavor but also give an appealing contrast against the creamy mozzarella.
Grated parmesan: A light dusting of extra parmesan on top right before serving adds both texture and a delicious salty bite.

Side Dishes

Simple green salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich gnocchi.
Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like Brussels sprouts or carrots make an excellent side that echoes the comforting theme of this meal.
Garlic bread: Soft, warm garlic bread pairs perfectly—its crispy edges are ideal for scooping up any leftover sauce!
Steamed broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli adds color to your plate while providing a nutritious balance to this hearty dish.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll be ready to impress your family or guests with The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi at your next meal! Enjoy every comforting bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Butternut Squash Gnocchi is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a cozy dinner any night of the week without the last-minute rush. Here’s how to store it properly for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover gnocchi in an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk or water to bring back creaminess.

Freezing

Allow the gnocchi to cool completely before freezing.
Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible.
Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to use, thaw in the fridge overnight.

Reheating

For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a bit of milk or water until warmed through.
Alternatively, microwave in short bursts (1-2 minutes), stirring in between until hot.

FAQs

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

Can I make The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the butternut squash purée and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days before cooking your gnocchi. Just combine it with the other ingredients when you’re ready to eat!

What should I serve with The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi?

This dish is hearty and flavorful on its own but pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or some sautéed spinach for a well-rounded meal.

Can I use other vegetables instead of butternut squash?

Yes! While this recipe focuses on butternut squash, you can experiment with other roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes or carrots for different flavors and textures.

How can I make The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi dairy-free?

Simply substitute dairy products like parmesan and mozzarella with plant-based alternatives. Nutritional yeast can be a great cheesy flavor substitute!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi just as much as I do! This recipe is not only comforting and delicious but also brings warmth and love to your dining table. Whether it’s for family dinners or gatherings with friends, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experience—happy cooking!

The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

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Author: Autumn
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Category: Main
Method: Baking/Frying
Cuisine: Italian

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Description

If you’re searching for a warm and comforting dish that’s sure to impress, look no further than The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi. This delightful recipe has been a kitchen favorite for years, captivating hearts with its creamy texture and rich flavor. The combination of roasted butternut squash and garlic creates a luscious sauce that envelops tender gnocchi, while crispy turkey strips and gooey mozzarella add layers of savory goodness. Perfect for cozy nights or family gatherings, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also a fantastic meal prep option. Enjoy every comforting bite of this fall-inspired masterpiece!

Ingredients

Scale

500 g butternut squash (peeled and chopped)
4 cloves garlic (peeled)
1 yellow onion (sliced)
2 tbsp olive oil
500 g shelf-stable gnocchi
50 g grated parmesan
Juice of 1 lemon
30 g walnuts (chopped)
75 ml milk
50 g turkey strips (chopped)
Fresh mozzarella (torn into pieces)

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 180ºC. Place butternut squash cubes, onion, and garlic on a baking tray with rosemary and olive oil. Roast for about 30 minutes until golden.
Blend the roasted vegetables into a smooth purée, adding water if needed.
In a frying pan, cook turkey strips in a bit of olive oil until crispy.
Add the purée back to the pan with water and milk, then gently stir in the gnocchi simmering for about 8-10 minutes until tender.
Stir in parmesan cheese and lemon juice; mix in half of the crispy turkey strips.
Top with torn mozzarella and place under the grill for about five minutes until melted.
Serve hot, garnished with remaining turkey strips, walnuts, and parsley.