Transform your fall harvest: how to make butternut squash gnocchi from scratch

Indulge in the cozy flavors of fall and winter with this delectable recipe for homemade butternut squash gnocchi. With its tender texture and sweet, nutty flavor, butternut squash gnocchi is a culinary masterpiece that will warm your heart and fill your belly. Here’s a step-by-step guide to create this delightful dish:

Ingredients

• 1 medium butternut squash (about 3 pounds)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage

Instructions

Preparing the Butternut Squash

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. Place the squash halves cut side down on a baking sheet and bake for 45-60 minutes, or until tender.
4. Scoop the roasted squash flesh into a large bowl and mash until smooth.

Making the Gnocchi

1. Add the flour, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper to the mashed squash.
2. Mix well until a dough forms. The dough should be slightly sticky but not too wet.
3. Dust a work surface with flour and divide the dough into 4 equal pieces.
4. Roll out each piece of dough into a long rope about 1/2-inch thick.
5. Cut the ropes into 1-inch pieces to form the gnocchi.
6. Use a fork to create indentations on each piece of gnocchi for a classic shape.

Cooking the Gnocchi

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the gnocchi and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they float to the top.
3. Remove the gnocchi from the water and drain well.

Finishing the Dish

1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the gnocchi and cook until golden brown on all sides.
3. Stir in the chopped sage and cook for an additional minute.
4. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the butternut squash gnocchi with your favorite sauce, such as:

• Brown butter and sage sauce
• Tomato sauce
• Pesto sauce
• Alfredo sauce

Tips for Success

• For a richer flavor, roast the butternut squash with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
• If the dough is too sticky, add more flour 1 tablespoon at a time.
• Do not overcook the gnocchi, as they will become tough.
• Serve the gnocchi immediately for the best texture.

Variations

• Add a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon to the dough for a warm, fall-inspired flavor.
• Use sweet potato or pumpkin instead of butternut squash for a different twist.
• Make the gnocchi gluten-free by using gluten-free flour.

The Bottom Line: A Culinary Adventure with Butternut Squash Gnocchi

With its tantalizing flavors and comforting textures, butternut squash gnocchi is a culinary delight that will become a staple in your fall and winter cooking repertoire. Embrace the season’s bounty and indulge in this delicious dish.

What You Need to Learn

Q: Can I make the gnocchi ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the gnocchi up to 2 days in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

Q: How can I freeze the gnocchi?
A: Once the gnocchi are cooked, spread them on a baking sheet and freeze for 1 hour. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months.

Q: What is the best way to reheat the gnocchi?
A: To reheat frozen gnocchi, boil them for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. For fresh gnocchi, simply reheat them in a skillet with a little butter until warmed.