Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sage Butter Sauce

Name: Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sage Butter Sauce
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups butternut squash, roasted and mashed; 1 cup all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting; 1 large egg; Salt, to taste; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 10 fresh sage leaves; Salt and pepper, to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Highlighted under: World Cuisine Recipes

This Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sage Butter Sauce is a delightful dish that combines the sweetness of roasted butternut squash with a rich and aromatic sage butter sauce, making it perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-02T17:30:02.792Z

This dish is inspired by the flavors of autumn, with the warm and earthy taste of butternut squash paired perfectly with the fragrant notes of sage. It's not just a meal; it's a celebration of seasonal ingredients!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Deliciously sweet and savory combination of flavors
Homemade gnocchi that melts in your mouth
Perfect for impressing guests or a cozy night in

      

The Magic of Butternut Squash

Butternut squash is a powerhouse of flavor and nutrition, boasting a natural sweetness that complements a variety of dishes. When roasted, its sugars caramelize, enhancing its rich, nutty profile. This makes it the perfect base for gnocchi, which absorbs flavors beautifully. The creamy texture of mashed butternut squash provides a delightful contrast to the tender, pillowy gnocchi, ensuring each bite is satisfying.

Additionally, butternut squash is packed with vitamins A and C, along with fiber, making it a nutritious choice for a hearty meal. Incorporating seasonal produce like butternut squash not only elevates the dish but also allows you to enjoy the freshest ingredients available, bringing a taste of autumn to your table.

Sage Butter Sauce: A Classic Pairing

Sage is a fragrant herb that brings an earthy, aromatic quality to dishes, making it a classic pairing with butternut squash. The process of infusing butter with fresh sage leaves creates a sauce that is both rich and vibrant, elevating the flavor profile of the gnocchi. The golden color of the browned butter adds a visual appeal that is as inviting as it is delicious.

When cooked, sage leaves become crispy, providing a delightful texture contrast in the sauce. This simple yet elegant preparation allows the flavors to shine through, making it an ideal choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The sage butter sauce can also be drizzled over other pasta dishes or roasted vegetables, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire.

Perfecting Your Homemade Gnocchi

Homemade gnocchi may seem intimidating, but with a few simple steps, you’ll find it’s a rewarding process. The key is to handle the dough gently to avoid overworking it, which can result in tough gnocchi. Using the right amount of flour is crucial; too little will make the gnocchi sticky, while too much will lead to a dense texture. Aim for a soft, pliable dough that holds its shape without being overly sticky.

Shaping the gnocchi with a fork not only creates a traditional look but also helps the sauce cling better to each piece. Remember to cook them in small batches to ensure even cooking. Once they float to the surface, they’re perfectly done. With a little practice, you’ll be making gnocchi that rivals your favorite Italian restaurant.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your homemade gnocchi.

For the Gnocchi

2 cups butternut squash, roasted and mashed
1 cup all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
1 large egg
Salt, to taste

For the Sage Butter Sauce

1/2 cup unsalted butter
10 fresh sage leaves
Salt and pepper, to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

With these ingredients ready, you're set to make a delicious dish!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your gnocchi and sage butter sauce.

Make the Gnocchi

In a large bowl, combine the roasted butternut squash, flour, egg, and a pinch of salt. Mix until a dough forms, then knead gently on a floured surface until smooth.

Shape the Gnocchi

Divide the dough into smaller portions, rolling each into a long rope about 1/2 inch thick. Cut into 1-inch pieces and shape with a fork if desired.

Cook the Gnocchi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi in batches and cook until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.

Prepare the Sage Butter Sauce

In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sage leaves and cook until the butter is golden and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Toss the cooked gnocchi in the sage butter sauce, seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.

Enjoy your delicious homemade butternut squash gnocchi!

Storage and Leftovers

If you have any leftover gnocchi, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently sauté them in a bit of olive oil or butter until heated through. This will help revive their texture and enhance the flavors. For longer storage, consider freezing the uncooked gnocchi. Lay them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer bag; this prevents them from sticking together.

When ready to enjoy your frozen gnocchi, simply drop them directly into boiling water without thawing. They may take a minute or two longer to cook, but the result will be just as delightful. This makes it easy to have a delicious homemade meal ready in no time.

Serving Suggestions

This Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sage Butter Sauce pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette adds a fresh contrast to the richness of the dish. For wine enthusiasts, a glass of white wine, such as a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio, complements the flavors of the sage and squash wonderfully.

Feel free to customize your dish by adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach for an extra layer of flavor and nutrition. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can also add a hint of heat, balancing the sweetness of the butternut squash. Get creative and make this recipe your own!

Nutritional Benefits

This dish offers a wealth of nutritional benefits, primarily due to the ingredients used. Butternut squash is rich in antioxidants and vitamins, particularly vitamin A, which is essential for eye health. It also contains potassium, which is vital for heart health and maintaining healthy blood pressure levels. The addition of sage not only enhances the flavor but also brings its own health benefits, known for its anti-inflammatory and digestive properties.

Using whole ingredients like fresh butter and eggs ensures that this dish is not only delicious but also nourishing. It's a comforting meal that satisfies while providing essential nutrients, making it a perfect choice for a healthy lifestyle.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the gnocchi?

Yes, you can freeze uncooked gnocchi. Just place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag.

→ What can I use instead of sage?

You can substitute sage with rosemary or thyme for a different flavor profile.

→ How do I know when the gnocchi are cooked?

Gnocchi are done when they float to the surface of the boiling water.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, you can substitute the egg with a flax egg and use vegan butter for the sauce.