Squash Gnocchi Brown Butter is a delightful dish that captures the essence of fall. This cozy meal features tender butternut squash gnocchi tossed in a rich, nutty brown butter sauce, accompanied by crispy sage, sautéed kale, mushrooms, and caramelized onions. It brings warmth and comfort to your dinner table, making it a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy a hearty and satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Squash Gnocchi Brown Butter

This Butternut Squash Gnocchi Recipe is not just any pasta; it’s a nourishing embrace of flavors. Here’s why you’ll adore it:

• Rich and flavorful brown butter sauce enhances every bite.
• Tender gnocchi provides a comforting texture that melts in your mouth.
• Easy to make from scratch, perfect for home cooks.
• Vegetarian dish packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables.
• It offers a unique twist on traditional pasta dishes.
• Great for meal prep, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
• Can be customized with your favorite vegetables or proteins.
• Perfect for special occasions and family gatherings.

This dish combines the comforting elements of a hearty meal with the elegance of Italian cuisine, making it the best squash gnocchi recipe with brown butter you’ll ever try.

Ingredients for Squash Gnocchi Brown Butter

Gather these items:

• 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups kale, chopped
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 6-8 fresh sage leaves
• Salt, to taste
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Grated parmesan (optional)
• Crushed walnuts or pecans (optional)

How to Make Squash Gnocchi Brown Butter Step-by-Step

1. Step 1: Boil the butternut squash until tender, then blend into a smooth puree.
2. Step 2: Mix the squash puree with flour and a pinch of salt to form a soft dough.
3. Step 3: Divide dough into 4 parts, roll into ropes, and cut into small gnocchi pieces.
4. Step 4: Boil gnocchi in salted water until they float (about 2–3 minutes).
5. Step 5: In a skillet, sauté onions, mushrooms, and garlic in olive oil until softened.
6. Step 6: Add kale and cook until wilted.
7. Step 7: In another pan, melt butter and cook over medium heat until it browns and smells nutty, then add sage leaves to crisp.
8. Step 8: Toss boiled gnocchi into the brown butter sage sauce and add sautéed veggies.
9. Step 9: Top with optional walnuts, parmesan, or red pepper flakes. Serve warm.

Pro Tips for the Best Squash Gnocchi Brown Butter

Keep these in mind:

• Make sure the butternut squash is fully cooked before mashing to ensure creamy gnocchi.
• Dust your work surface with flour when rolling out the dough to prevent sticking.
• Use fresh sage for the best flavor; it complements the brown butter beautifully.
• Cook in batches if you’re making a large amount to avoid overcrowding the pot.

Best Ways to Serve Squash Gnocchi Brown Butter

Here are a few delicious ideas to elevate your dish:

• Serve with a sprinkle of grated parmesan for added richness.
• Pair with a side salad for a balanced meal.
• Add a splash of cream for a creamy squash gnocchi with brown butter twist.

How to Store and Reheat Squash Gnocchi Brown Butter

For optimal storage, place the gnocchi in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a touch of olive oil or butter to maintain the flavors. This method works perfectly for meal prep and ensures you can enjoy this dish multiple times throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Squash Gnocchi Brown Butter

What’s the secret to perfect Squash Gnocchi Brown Butter?

The secret lies in ensuring that the butternut squash is well-cooked and fully mashed before mixing with the flour. This ensures a smooth and creamy texture, making your gnocchi light and fluffy.

Can I make Squash Gnocchi Brown Butter ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the gnocchi and refrigerate or freeze them before cooking. This is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a quick and delicious meal.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Squash Gnocchi Brown Butter?

Be careful not to overwork the dough, as this can lead to tough gnocchi. Also, ensure your water is at a rolling boil before adding the gnocchi for the best cooking results.

Variations of Squash Gnocchi Brown Butter You Can Try

If you’re looking to mix things up, consider these variations:

• Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Brown Butter: A delightful alternative that adds a different sweet flavor profile.
• Creamy Squash Gnocchi with Brown Butter: Incorporate cream for a rich, luscious sauce.
• Brown Butter Squash Gnocchi with Sage: Enhance the sage flavor for a more aromatic experience.
• Harvest Gnocchi: Add seasonal vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots for a colorful twist.

For more delicious recipes, check out our homemade tomato sauce or spaghetti with garlic and oil.

For more tips on cooking vegetables, visit The Many Benefits of Onions.

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