There’s something deeply comforting about a one-pan meal that brings together creamy sauce, hearty sausage, and soft, pillowy gnocchi. This Creamy Sausage & Squash Gnocchi Skillet is all that and more — a fall-inspired dish that balances rich, savory sausage with the natural sweetness of roasted squash.
Each bite is an irresistible mix of textures and flavors: golden pan-seared gnocchi, caramelized sausage, tender cubes of butternut squash, and a velvety garlic-Parmesan sauce that clings to everything like a warm hug.
It’s the perfect recipe for cozy nights, busy weeknights, or when you want a home-cooked dinner that feels like comfort in a bowl — made in just one skillet and ready in under 30 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Sausage & Squash Gnocchi Skillet
- One-pan, no-fuss meal — minimal cleanup.
- Creamy, hearty, and packed with flavor.
- Ready in about 30 minutes.
- A balanced mix of sweet, savory, and rich flavors.
- Perfect for fall, winter, or any comfort food craving.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
This skillet dinner is a beautiful blend of simplicity and sophistication. The browned sausage builds deep, savory flavor, while the squash adds a subtle sweetness that brightens the dish. The gnocchi, pan-seared until slightly crispy, soaks up the creamy sauce, making every bite rich and comforting.
It’s also incredibly versatile — you can use Italian sausage, chicken sausage, or even plant-based alternatives. Whether you’re serving it for family dinner or impressing guests, it looks and tastes like a meal that took hours, even though it comes together effortlessly.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed (½-inch pieces)
- 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi (fresh or shelf-stable)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup baby spinach (optional, for color and balance)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or thyme, for garnish
How to Make Creamy Sausage & Squash Gnocchi Skillet (Step by Step)
Step 1: Cook the sausage
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and cooked through — about 6–7 minutes. Remove sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the squash
In the same skillet, add the cubed butternut squash. Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and lightly caramelized. Add a splash of water if needed to help it soften.
Step 3: Add the gnocchi
Stir in the gnocchi (no need to pre-boil) and cook for 3–4 minutes, until lightly golden.
Step 4: Build the sauce
Add garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 5: Combine everything
Return the sausage to the skillet and stir in Parmesan cheese. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the gnocchi. Add spinach, if using, and cook just until wilted.
Step 6: Garnish and serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle with fresh parsley or thyme and extra Parmesan before serving warm.
Tips for the Best Creamy Sausage & Squash Gnocchi Skillet
- Use fresh gnocchi – It browns beautifully and cooks quickly.
- Don’t rush browning the sausage – It builds deep, savory flavor.
- Cut the squash evenly – Ensures it cooks through at the same rate.
- Don’t overcook the gnocchi – It should stay tender, not mushy.
- Simmer gently – Keeps the sauce creamy without separating.
- Add spinach last – So it stays bright green and fresh.
- Use quality Parmesan – Freshly grated cheese melts better and adds richness.
- Balance the sauce – Add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness if it feels too rich.
- Adjust thickness – Add a splash of broth if the sauce gets too thick.
- Serve immediately – The texture is best fresh off the stove.
Variations & Substitutions
- Vegetarian: Use plant-based sausage or omit and add mushrooms.
- Lighter Option: Use half-and-half or evaporated milk instead of cream.
- Cheese Swap: Try Pecorino Romano or Asiago.
- Extra Veggies: Add kale, peas, or roasted red peppers.
- Sweet & Savory: Stir in caramelized onions for more depth.
- Spicy Twist: Use hot Italian sausage or a pinch of cayenne.
- Herb Lovers: Add fresh sage, rosemary, or thyme for an autumn flavor.
- Smoky Flavor: Use smoked sausage or add a dash of smoked paprika.
- Vegan: Use vegan sausage, coconut cream, and dairy-free cheese.
- Make Ahead: Prep all ingredients ahead and cook fresh before serving.
What to Serve With Creamy Sausage & Squash Gnocchi Skillet
- Garlic bread or crusty ciabatta for scooping up the sauce
- Simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Roasted Brussels sprouts or asparagus
- Glass of white wine — Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, or Sauvignon Blanc
- Apple crisp or pumpkin pie for a cozy dessert pairing
Storage & Reheating Tips
To Store:
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
To Reheat:
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid high heat to prevent curdling.
To Freeze:
Not ideal for freezing — gnocchi may become mushy after thawing.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use store-bought gnocchi?
Yes! Both fresh and shelf-stable gnocchi work perfectly here.
Can I use pre-cooked sausage?
Absolutely — just slice and heat it before adding the other ingredients.
Can I use another type of squash?
Yes — acorn, kabocha, or delicata squash all work well.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes — substitute coconut cream or oat cream for the heavy cream.
Can I add wine to the sauce?
A splash of white wine before adding cream adds great flavor depth.
Can I bake it instead of cooking on the stovetop?
Yes — transfer to an oven-safe dish, sprinkle cheese on top, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes.
Can I use frozen squash?
Yes, just thaw and drain before cooking.
Can I use spinach or kale?
Both are great options — kale adds a bit more texture.
Can I add mushrooms?
Definitely — sauté them with the sausage for an earthy flavor boost.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes — just use a larger skillet or cook in two batches.