Creamy Butternut Gnocchi with Spicy Sausage: A Hearty Winter Delight

Winter is the perfect time to indulge in comforting and hearty meals that warm both the body and the soul. One dish that fits the bill perfectly is creamy butternut gnocchi with spicy sausage. This tantalising combination of flavours and textures creates a satisfying meal that is sure to become a winter favorite. Creamy butternut gnocchi with spicy sausage is a must-try winter meal.
 
The Comfort of Gnocchi
Gnocchi, those soft and pillowy potato dumplings, are a beloved Italian comfort food that can make any dish feel like a warm hug on a cold winter's night. When paired with the sweet and nutty flavor of butternut squash, the result is a match made in heaven. The creamy butternut gnocchi base provides a smooth and velvety texture that envelops your taste buds, making each bite an indulgent experience.

1. The Earthy Goodness of Butternut Squash
   Butternut squash is a seasonal star during the winter months. Its earthy sweetness and vibrant orange hue add a touch of warmth and color to your plate. When roasted or pureed and added to gnocchi, it brings a subtle sweetness that balances the spiciness of the sausage. Butternut squash is also rich in vitamins and antioxidants, making this dish not only delicious but also nutritious.

2. The Spice of Spicy Sausage
   To elevate the flavor profile of our creamy butternut gnocchi, we introduce the fiery kick of spicy sausage. The combination of spicy sausage and creamy butternut creates a harmonious contrast that keeps your taste buds engaged. The sausage infuses the dish with a smoky, savory, and slightly spicy kick that warms you up from the inside out. It's a perfect marriage of textures and tastes.
   
   
3. Hearty and Filling
   Winter calls for meals that satisfy both the appetite and the soul, and this creamy butternut gnocchi with spicy sausage does just that. The combination of carbohydrates from the gnocchi and the richness of the creamy sauce makes it a hearty and filling option. It's the kind of meal that leaves you feeling content and ready to face the cold weather with a smile.
   
   
4. Versatile and Customizable
   One of the great things about this dish is its versatility, meaning you can adapt it to suit your taste. Whether you prefer a milder sausage or a vegetarian version like the one we have used, a different type of pasta, or want to incorporate more vegetables, the possibilities are endless. This dish welcomes creativity and experimentation, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences and dietary restrictions.
   
   
5. The Pleasure of Cooking
   Preparing any dish is not just about the end result; it's also about the joy of cooking. Spending time in the kitchen, chopping vegetables, sautéing sausage, and simmering the sauce can be a therapeutic and satisfying experience, especially during the winter months when you want to stay cozy indoors. The tantalizing aromas that fill your kitchen as you cook this dish are a bonus.
   
   
6. Perfect for Entertaining
   This winter favourite isn't just a family meal; it's also a fantastic option for entertaining guests during the cooler seasons. Its rich and flavorful profile makes it an impressive choice for dinner parties or gatherings. Plus, you can make it ahead of time and reheat it, so you can spend more time enjoying your company and less time in the kitchen.

Creamy butternut gnocchi with spicy sausage is the perfect hearty winter meal that ticks all the boxes of comfort, flavor, and warmth, and is a must-try during the chilly winter months. The combination of tender gnocchi, sweet butternut squash, and spicy sausage creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more. So, embrace the winter season with open arms and a plate full of this comforting dish, and let it become a cherished part of your winter culinary repertoire.
 
Enjoy!
The Steens Team x

INGREDIENTS

• 3 sausages casings removed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 250g potato gnocchi
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 cup butternut squash puree
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh sage chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme
• Salt and coarsely ground black pepper to taste
  
  

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil on medium heat in a large, high-sided skillet.
Add sliced sausage and cook on medium heat for about 4 minutes on one side, without turning, to get the sausage slices browned. Flip over to the other side and cook for 2 more minutes.



To the same skillet with sausage, add uncooked potato gnocchi, heavy cream, and chicken stock. Bring to a boil on medium heat and stir everything well. Cover with lid, and allow the gnocchi to cook for about 5 minutes on medium heat, while the sauce boils.



To the same pan with gnocchi and sausage, add butternut squash puree, and minced garlic. Bring the sauce to a boil on medium heat, reduce to low-medium heat, stir everything well. Cook for about 3 or more minutes. Make sure the gnocchi are cooked through, the garlic is cooked to your liking, and the sauce thickens. Cook longer if you would like a thicker sauce. Remove from heat.

Stir in half of the fresh sage and half of the fresh thyme. Season with salt and freshly ground coarse black pepper.

 

Tip: use your best judgment about the salt. If the sausage is salty enough, you might not need to add any extra salt.When serving, top with the remaining half of the fresh sage and the remaining half of the fresh thyme.