Ingredients
Sausage and Base
- 12 oz Italian sausage, casings removed (about 3 sausage links)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Gnocchi and Sauce
- 10 oz potato gnocchi
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup butternut squash puree
Seasoning and Herbs
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped (divided)
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme (divided)
- Salt, to taste
- Coarsely ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Sausage: Remove the sausage from its casings and slice into pieces for even cooking and easier integration with the gnocchi.
- Heat Oil in Skillet: Warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, high-sided skillet over medium heat to prepare for cooking the sausage.
- Cook the Sausage: Add the sliced sausage to the skillet and cook on medium heat for about 4 minutes on one side, allowing it to brown without turning. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes until browned on both sides.
- Add Gnocchi and Liquids: Into the same skillet, add uncooked potato gnocchi, heavy cream, and chicken broth. Stir to combine and increase heat to bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer Gnocchi: Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for approximately 5 minutes on medium heat, allowing the gnocchi to cook through as the sauce boils and thickens.
- Add Puree and Garlic: Stir in the butternut squash puree and minced garlic. Bring the sauce back to a boil, then reduce the heat to low-medium. Cook, stirring occasionally, for at least 3 minutes or until the gnocchi is tender, the garlic is cooked, and the sauce has thickened to your liking.
- Season and Finish: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in half of the fresh sage and thyme. Season with salt and coarsely ground black pepper, adjusting the salt based on the saltiness of the sausage.
- Serve: When plating, garnish with the remaining fresh sage and thyme for a fresh herbal aroma and added flavor.
Notes
- Choose good quality Italian sausage for the best flavor.
- Be careful with salt since the sausage can be quite salty; taste before adding additional salt.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, continue cooking after adding butternut squash puree and garlic until the desired consistency is reached.
- Fresh herbs add brightness—add them at the end to keep their flavor vibrant.
- Use a high-sided skillet to prevent splattering and allow enough space to stir the gnocchi and sauce easily.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian