How to Make Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage, Thyme, and Sage

This Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage, Thyme, and Sage is the perfect balance of cozy comfort and gourmet flavor. Soft, pillowy gnocchi pairs beautifully with naturally sweet roasted butternut squash, while savory chicken or turkey sausage adds depth. Fresh thyme and sage elevate the dish with warm, aromatic notes, making every bite rich and satisfying.

Not only is this dish delicious, it’s visually stunning—golden gnocchi, vibrant orange squash, and browned sausage create a colorful, inviting plate. Perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or a special date night at home, this recipe is easy to prepare yet feels restaurant-quality. It’s a comforting, flavorful dish that’s sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi

You’ll love this dish for its flavor, texture, and simplicity. The gnocchi’s soft, pillowy texture soaks up the creamy sauce, while roasted butternut squash adds natural sweetness. Chicken or turkey sausage gives a savory punch, and fresh thyme and sage bring aromatic warmth.

It’s versatile, easy to make, and perfect for both weeknights and dinner parties. Plus, it fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and delivers comfort in every bite. Rich, creamy, and herb-infused, this gnocchi dish is a cozy, flavorful crowd-pleaser you’ll return to again and again.

What You’ll Need

To make this Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage, Thyme, and Sage, you only need a handful of fresh, accessible ingredients. The key is balancing creamy, savory, and aromatic elements:

• 1 pound gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 small butternut squash (about 2 cups, peeled and cubed)
• 12 ounces chicken or turkey sausage, casings removed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• 6 fresh sage leaves, chopped
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Optional garnish: fresh sage or additional Parmesan

These ingredients come together to create a creamy, comforting dish with a hint of sweetness from the squash and an aromatic lift from the herbs.

How to Make Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi

1. Roast the squash: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20–25 minutes until tender and lightly caramelized.
2. Cook the sausage: While the squash roasts, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it into small pieces. Cook for 5–7 minutes until browned and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté aromatics: In the same skillet, add the onion and cook until soft, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in garlic, thyme, and sage, cooking another minute until fragrant.
4. Combine with cream: Reduce heat to low and stir in roasted squash and heavy cream. Use a spoon or potato masher to lightly mash some of the squash for a creamy texture. Add Parmesan and season with salt and pepper.
5. Cook the gnocchi: Boil gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain and gently fold into the creamy squash and sausage mixture. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
6. Serve: Transfer to plates, garnish with fresh sage or extra Parmesan, and enjoy warm.

This method creates a rich, aromatic, and satisfying dish that’s both comforting and elegant.

You Must Know

A few key tips make this dish shine. Use high-quality or fresh gnocchi and cook just until they float to avoid mushiness. Roast the squash evenly to bring out natural sweetness and caramelization. Fresh thyme and sage elevate the flavor, so add them toward the end. Lightly mashing some squash into the sauce creates a creamy texture without being too heavy. These small steps make every bite tender, flavorful, and comforting.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Timing and technique matter. Prep all ingredients first for smooth cooking. Spread squash evenly when roasting and cook sausage separately for even browning. Sauté onions, garlic, and herbs in the same skillet to build depth. Simmer the cream gently, then fold in gnocchi carefully to avoid breaking them. The result is a creamy, well-balanced dish with perfectly coated gnocchi and savory, aromatic flavors.

Add Your Touch Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi

One of the best things about this dish is how easy it is to personalize. You can swap the sausage for a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian-friendly version, or use spicy chicken sausage for a bit of heat. Add toasted nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch, or stir in a handful of baby spinach or kale for more color and nutrients. A drizzle of truffle oil or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan before serving adds an elegant touch.

Herbs are your secret weapon: fresh sage, thyme, or even rosemary can subtly change the flavor profile. Feel free to experiment with seasoning—smoked paprika, nutmeg, or a pinch of cayenne can enhance the depth of the dish without overpowering it. Garnishing with crispy fried sage leaves or microgreens can elevate presentation and make it feel extra-special, perfect for serving guests or celebrating a cozy evening at home.

Storing & Reheating

Another must-try recipe awaits you

This dish stores well, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers. Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s creaminess. Avoid microwaving for long periods, which can make the gnocchi mushy.

For freezing, place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stove. Gently stir to recombine the sauce with the gnocchi, and sprinkle with fresh herbs or Parmesan before serving to bring back the fresh, vibrant flavors. Proper storage ensures you can enjoy this comforting, creamy meal anytime without losing its delicious texture or aroma.

Chef’s Helpful Tips for Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Keep the comfort food coming here.

To make this dish perfectly every time:

• Don’t overcook gnocchi—they’re done once they float.
• Roast squash evenly for maximum sweetness and caramelization.
• Use fresh herbs—thyme and sage add the signature aroma.
• Mash some squash into the sauce for creaminess without extra cream.
• Fold gnocchi gently to prevent them from breaking.

Optional touches like adding greens, toasted nuts, or a sprinkle of Parmesan elevate flavor and presentation effortlessly.

FAQ for Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the sausage for plant-based sausage or roasted mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian version.

Try this easy weeknight favorite next

Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Absolutely. Just boil according to package instructions.

Can I prep in advance?
Roast the squash and cook the sausage a day ahead. Assemble and heat just before serving for fresh flavor.

How do I keep it creamy when reheating?
Add a splash of cream or milk when warming on the stovetop to restore the sauce.

Conclusion

This Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage, Thyme, and Sage is the perfect balance of comfort and elegance. Soft gnocchi, sweet roasted squash, savory sausage, and aromatic herbs create a cozy, flavorful dish everyone will love. Simple enough for a weeknight yet special enough for guests, it’s versatile, satisfying, and endlessly customizable.

Whether enjoyed fresh, stored for leftovers, or adapted with your personal twist, this dish is a celebration of fall flavors and creamy indulgence. It’s the kind of recipe that keeps people coming back for seconds and makes every meal feel like a little special occasion.