The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

This The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi recipe is a delightful comfort dish that shines on any dinner table. With its creamy texture and rich flavors from roasted squash and garlic, it’s perfect for cozy nights or impressing guests. The addition of crispy turkey strips and melted mozzarella elevates this meal, making it both satisfying and unique.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, even beginner cooks can whip this up in no time.
• Rich in Flavor: The combination of roasted butternut squash and garlic creates a decadent sauce that pairs beautifully with gnocchi.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish can be easily adjusted to suit your taste.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vitamins and minerals from the squash and walnuts, making it a healthy choice.
• Comfort Food Vibe: This dish brings warmth and satisfaction that everyone will love.

Tools and Preparation

To create the BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These will help streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor or blender
• Baking tray
• Medium frying pan
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor or blender: Essential for creating a smooth butternut squash purée, which is the base of your sauce.
• Baking tray: Provides a sturdy surface for roasting vegetables evenly, ensuring they cook to perfection.
• Medium frying pan: Ideal for sautéing ingredients and gently simmering the gnocchi in the sauce without spilling.

Ingredients

This butternut squash gnocchi is a delicious and comforting dish perfect for a cosy meal. The roasted squash and garlic create a rich, flavourful sauce, complemented by the crisp turkey strips and creamy mozzarella.

For the Gnocchi 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)
• 75 ml milk
• 50 g turkey strips or turkey slices (chopped)
• 1 ball of fresh mozzarella (torn into 4-6 pieces)

How to Make The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 180ºC. This ensures that your vegetables roast evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Squash and Vegetables

Place the butternut squash cubes, sliced onion, and peeled garlic on a baking tray. Sprinkle with rosemary and drizzle with olive oil.

Step 3: Roast the Vegetables

Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes. Check for tenderness; onions should be golden while squash must be soft.

Step 4: Make the Purée

Transfer the roasted vegetables to a food processor or blender. Blend until smooth, adding water if needed to achieve a thick consistency.

Step 5: Cook the Turkey Strips or Slices

In a medium frying pan with high sides, heat 5 ml (1 teaspoon) of olive oil over medium heat. Fry turkey strips until crispy, then transfer them to a small bowl along with any fat rendered during cooking.

Step 6: Prepare the Gnocchi

Spoon butternut squash purée into the frying pan. Add 75 ml of water and milk, then stir in the gnocchi. Simmer uncovered for about 8–10 minutes until tender.

Step 7: Finish the Sauce

Stir in grated parmesan cheese and lemon juice. Adjust seasoning as needed before adding half of the crispy turkey strips along with some reserved fat.

Step 8: Melt the Mozzarella

Place torn mozzarella pieces on top of gnocchi. Broil under grill for about 5 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Top with remaining turkey strips, cracked black pepper, walnuts, and fresh parsley before serving warm. Enjoy your delightful plate of The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi!

How to Serve The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Serving The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi can elevate your dining experience, making it perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance this comforting dish.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.
• Rosemary: Add finely chopped rosemary to complement the roasted squash taste.

Pair with a Side Salad

• Mixed Greens: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette adds freshness.
• Caesar Salad: Classic Caesar complements the richness of the gnocchi wonderfully.

Serve with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
• Crusty Baguette: Serve slices of crusty baguette for a rustic touch.

Create a Cozy Plating

• Individual Bowls: Serve in individual bowls for a warm, inviting presentation.
• Rustic Platter: For sharing, use a large platter lined with parchment paper for a charming display.

How to Perfect The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

To achieve The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi, it’s essential to focus on key elements that enhance flavor and texture. Here are some tips to help you perfect your dish.

• Roast until caramelized: Ensure the butternut squash is well-roasted until caramelized to bring out its natural sweetness.
• Blend until smooth: For a creamy purée, blend the roasted vegetables until they reach a perfectly smooth consistency.
• Don’t overcook gnocchi: Cook gnocchi just until tender; overcooking can make them mushy.
• Adjust seasoning carefully: Taste and adjust seasoning gradually to ensure balanced flavors without overpowering the dish.
• Use fresh mozzarella: Opt for high-quality fresh mozzarella for an authentic melt-in-your-mouth experience.
• Add nuts for crunch: Incorporate walnuts or other nuts before serving for added texture and richness.

Best Side Dishes for The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Pairing side dishes with The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies roasted in garlic and olive oil to complement the gnocchi.
2. Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach with lemon juice adds freshness and brightens up the meal.
3. Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts seasoned with salt and pepper provide a delightful crunch and flavor contrast.
4. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon dressing offers a nutritious side option.
5. Creamy Polenta: Smooth polenta topped with herbs pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of gnocchi.
6. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes baked until tender add sweetness that complements the savory elements of the dish.
7. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze enhance the Italian theme of your meal.
8. Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous tossed with fresh herbs provides an excellent base that absorbs any extra sauce from the gnocchi.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make your butternut squash gnocchi perfect, here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Not roasting the squash properly: Ensure the squash is soft and caramelized for optimal flavor. Overlook this, and your dish may lack depth.
• Using too much water: Adding excess water can make your gnocchi mushy. Use just enough to achieve a thick purée for the right consistency.
• Skipping the seasoning: Don’t forget to season your gnocchi mixture adequately. A pinch of salt and pepper enhances the overall taste.
• Overcooking the gnocchi: Keep an eye on cooking times; overcooked gnocchi can become gummy. Aim for tender gnocchi that retains its shape.
• Ignoring the cheese melt: Take time to melt the mozzarella properly under the grill. This step adds a delightful creaminess that elevates your dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow it to cool completely before sealing to avoid moisture buildup.

Freezing The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bags for up to 2 months.
• Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Reheating The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi

• Oven: Preheat to 180ºC, cover with foil, and heat for 15-20 minutes until warm throughout.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until heated through.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of milk or broth in a pan over medium heat, stirring gently until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How do I know when my butternut squash is done roasting?

The squash should be tender when pierced with a fork and slightly caramelized on the edges for best flavor.

Can I use different types of cheese in The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like ricotta or goat cheese for a unique twist on flavor.

What can I serve alongside The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi?

A simple salad or steamed vegetables pairs well, complementing the richness of the gnocchi.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

To make it vegan, substitute dairy with plant-based alternatives like vegan cheese and almond or oat milk.

Final Thoughts

The BEST Butternut Squash Gnocchi is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding seasonal vegetables or swapping proteins as desired. Give this comforting dish a try; it’s perfect for any cozy meal!