This Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sage is pure comfort food. Cozy, creamy, and deeply satisfying, without feeling heavy or complicated. It’s the kind of dish you make when you want something warm and nourishing, when the kitchen light is low, and you’re craving a bowl of pasta that feels both indulgent and grounding.

Soft pillowy gnocchi are coated in a velvety butternut squash sauce that’s gently spiced, slightly sweet, and rich in the best way. Crispy sage leaves are scattered over the top, adding earthy flavor and a subtle crunch that cuts through the creaminess perfectly. Finished with grated parmesan and cracked black pepper, this dish tastes like fall in a bowl but honestly, it’s good any time of year.

Simple ingredients, minimal cleanup, and food that feels special without being fussy.

Why You’ll Love This Butternut Squash Gnocchi

One pot from start to finish
Creamy and comforting without being overly heavy
Quick enough for weeknights, cozy enough for weekends
Vegetarian and crowd-pleasing
Restaurant-worthy, but approachable

It’s one of those meals that feels like a hug. Warm, familiar, and deeply comforting.

Ingredients:

Gnocchi & Sauce:

1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 small shallot or yellow onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups butternut squash purée (canned or homemade)
½ teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
¼ teaspoon nutmeg
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
¾ cup vegetable broth
½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
1 (16 oz) package shelf-stable potato gnocchi

Crispy Sage:

1 tablespoon butter
8–10 fresh sage leaves

To Finish:

Freshly grated parmesan cheese
Cracked black pepper
Optional: chili flakes or lemon zest

How to Make Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sage

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large, deep skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes, until soft and translucent.

Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant. This step builds the base flavor of the dish, so don’t rush it.

Step 2: Build the Sauce

Stir in the butternut squash purée, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and red pepper flakes if using. Let it cook for 1–2 minutes to deepen the flavor.

Slowly pour in the vegetable broth, stirring constantly until the sauce loosens and becomes smooth. Add the cream and stir until fully combined. Lower the heat to medium-low and let the sauce gently simmer.

Step 3: Add the Gnocchi

Add the gnocchi directly into the sauce. Stir gently to coat.

Simmer uncovered for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gnocchi are tender and the sauce thickens slightly. The gnocchi will release starch into the sauce, making it extra creamy.

Step 4: Crisp the Sage

While the gnocchi cooks, melt butter in a small pan over medium heat. Add the sage leaves and cook for 30–45 seconds per side, until crispy and fragrant.

Remove immediately and place on a paper towel. Sprinkle lightly with salt.

Step 5: Finish & Serve

Taste the gnocchi and adjust seasoning as needed. Spoon into bowls and top with crispy sage leaves, freshly grated parmesan, and cracked black pepper.

Serve hot.

What Makes This Dish So Good

Butternut Squash Purée

Butternut squash brings natural sweetness, a silky texture, and depth to the sauce. It pairs beautifully with sage and parmesan, creating that classic cozy flavor combination.

Gnocchi

Shelf-stable gnocchi cook quickly and soak up the sauce perfectly. They’re soft, pillowy, and make this dish feel hearty without needing hours in the kitchen.

Sage Butter

Crispy sage adds earthy aroma and contrast. It’s a small step that makes the dish feel elevated and intentional.

Tips for the Best Gnocchi

Don’t overcook gnocchi only need a few minutes
Simmer gently to avoid breaking them apart
Season well squash loves salt
Use fresh parmesan, not pre-grated, for best flavor

Variations & Substitutions

Make it vegan: Use plant-based butter and cream
Add protein: Crispy chickpeas or white beans work beautifully
Extra greens: Stir in spinach or kale at the end
More depth: Add a splash of white wine before the broth
Brighter finish: Add lemon zest just before serving

Storage & Reheating

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
Reheat: Gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream
Freezer: Not recommended, gnocchi texture won’t hold

This dish thickens as it sits, so loosening it with a little liquid when reheating is key.

What to Serve with Butternut Squash Gnocchi

Simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette
Roasted broccoli or Brussels sprouts
Garlic bread or focaccia
A glass of dry white wine

It’s rich enough to stand on its own but pairs well with something fresh and crisp on the side.

Final Thoughts

This Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sage is everything comfort food should be. Warm, creamy, flavorful, and deeply satisfying, without being complicated or heavy. It’s the kind of recipe you make once and immediately crave again.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or friends, this dish feels special every time it hits the table. Light a candle, grate a little extra parmesan, and enjoy every bite.

Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sage