Creamy, cozy, and full of flavor — this Creamy Sausage Butternut Squash Gnocchi brings comfort to your table in just 20 minutes. Tender gnocchi, savory sausage, and velvety butternut squash sauce make this an easy one-pan meal that feels fancy without the fuss.

Creamy Sausage Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Name: Creamy Sausage + Butternut Squash Gnocchi
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 12 oz. Italian sausage, sliced; 1 Tablespoon olive oil; 10 oz. potato gnocchi, uncooked; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1 cup butternut squash puree*; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 Tablespoons fresh sage, chopped; 1 Tablespoons chopped rosemary; salt and coarsely ground black pepper, to taste

Nothing says cozy fall comfort like a bowl of creamy gnocchi. This Creamy Sausage Butternut Squash Gnocchi recipe is the ultimate weeknight dinner — rich, flavorful, and ready in under 20 minutes. The velvety butternut squash sauce clings to pillowy gnocchi, while Italian sausage and fresh herbs bring the perfect savory balance. Whether it’s a chilly weeknight or a weekend dinner with friends, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort.

Ingredients for Creamy Sausage Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Here’s what to grab at the grocery store:

Italian sausage

Olive oil

Potato gnocchi

Heavy cream

Chicken broth

Butternut squash puree

Minced garlic

Fresh sage

Fresh thyme

Salt

Black pepper

That’s it! A short and simple list for a big, cozy payoff.

Keep reading for full ingredient list + recipe, below

Why You’ll Love Creamy Sausage Butternut Squash Gnocchi

This dish checks all the boxes for a perfect weeknight dinner. It’s easy, comforting, and tastes like something you’d order at a restaurant.

Here’s why it’ll become your new favorite:

1. One-pan simplicity. Everything cooks in one skillet — fewer dishes, faster cleanup.

2. Cozy, creamy flavor. The sauce is rich and velvety, with just the right amount of savory depth from sausage and herbs.

3. Seasonal and satisfying. Butternut squash adds a touch of sweetness that makes every bite taste like fall.

4. Feels fancy, but isn’t. You’ll impress everyone at the table without breaking a sweat.

5. Ready in 20 minutes. Perfect for busy nights when you still want something homemade and delicious.

Tips and Tricks for the Best Gnocchi

Use store-bought shortcuts. Pre-cut butternut squash saves tons of time without sacrificing flavor.

Make it your own. Swap sausage for chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even crispy bacon.

Add greens. Toss in spinach or kale for a boost of color and nutrition.

Lighten it up. Sub half-and-half for heavy cream, if you want a slightly lighter version.

More easy fall dinner recipes:

• Homemade Hamburger Helper

• Creamy Tuscan Sausage Gnocchi

• Creamy Mushroom Marsala Gnocchi

• One Pot Creamy Beef and Shells

• Sheet Pan Gnocchi with Sausage Meatballs

• Gnocchi with Pumpkin, Bacon and Sage

FAQ: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just skip the sausage or sauté some mushrooms or chickpeas instead. The creamy butternut squash sauce is flavorful enough to carry the dish on its own. You can even use a splash of extra broth or add a little smoked paprika for extra depth.

FAQ: What can I use instead of butternut squash puree?

If you can’t find butternut squash puree, pumpkin puree works perfectly. It gives a similar silky texture and mild sweetness. You can also roast fresh butternut squash, then mash or blend it until smooth.

FAQ: Can I make this ahead of time?

You can! Cook the sauce and sausage ahead of time, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce in a skillet, add freshly cooked gnocchi, and stir to combine. Add a splash of broth or cream if it’s too thick after reheating.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish with a simple green salad and a crusty loaf of bread to soak up every drop of that creamy sauce. It’s also delicious with roasted Brussels sprouts or garlic bread on the side. For wine pairing, try a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to balance the rich sauce.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid overcooking, as gnocchi can become soft if reheated too long.

Creamy Sausage Butternut Squash Gnocchi is everything you crave in a fall comfort meal — cozy, creamy, and full of flavor. It’s a simple way to elevate your weeknight dinner without the stress of complicated prep or long cook times. With just a handful of ingredients and one pan, you’ll have a warm, inviting meal that feels special enough for guests and easy enough for a Tuesday night.