Rustic Butternut Squash Sage (Print Version)

Tender gnocchi combined with roasted butternut squash, crisp sage, and brown butter sauce.

# What You'll Need:

→ Roasted Butternut Squash

01 - 1 small butternut squash (approximately 4.4 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
04 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ Gnocchi and Sauce

05 - 18 ounces potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
06 - 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
07 - 20 fresh sage leaves
08 - 2 garlic cloves, minced
09 - 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
10 - 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
11 - Salt and pepper, to taste

→ To Finish

12 - Zest of 1 lemon
13 - 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Heat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Toss butternut squash cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread evenly on the sheet.
02 - Roast squash for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until golden and tender.
03 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
04 - Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sage leaves and cook 2 to 3 minutes until butter foams and browns and sage is crisp. Stir in minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking 30 seconds. Remove from heat.
05 - Cook gnocchi in boiling water following package instructions or until they float to the surface, approximately 2 to 3 minutes. Drain thoroughly.
06 - Return skillet with brown butter to medium-low heat. Add drained gnocchi and roasted squash; gently toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper.
07 - Stir in Parmesan cheese and lemon zest. Cook for 1 minute until warmed through.
08 - Plate immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan and parsley if desired.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • Rich autumn flavors and vibrant presentation make this dish perfect for special occasions or everyday meals
  • Uses simple ingredients yet delivers an impressive, restaurant-quality result
02 -
  • Use fresh sage for optimal aroma—the leaves crisp up and infuse the butter during cooking
  • To save time, prep the squash ahead or opt for pre-cubed fresh varieties if available
03 -
  • Homemade gnocchi give the dish an extra tender bite but quality store-bought gnocchi save time
  • Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or walnuts for crunch and additional flavor
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