As I stood over my simmering pot, the rich aroma of garlic and herbs swirling around me, I felt an overwhelming sense of warmth and comfort. Today, I’m sharing my favorite recipe for Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi Soup, a cozy vegetarian delight that warms both the body and spirit on a chilly day. This recipe offers a delightful balance of flavors with tender gnocchi, wholesome kale, and the sweet earthiness of butternut squash. One of the best perks? It’s quick to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights, plus it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some nutritious veggies while indulging in a creamy bowl of comfort. Are you ready to add a splash of vibrancy to your dinner table? Let’s dive in!
What makes this soup a must-try?
Creamy Comfort: This Butternut Squash Gnocchi Soup is a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for cozy nights in.
Quick & Easy: With minimal prep and fuss, you can have this delicious dish ready in under 30 minutes!
Nutritious Boost: Packed with vitamins from butternut squash and kale, it’s a guilt-free indulgence.
Versatile Ingredients: Customize it to your taste—swap in your favorite veggies or a different grain, just like in my Savory Butternut Squash or Potato Cheese Soup.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for gatherings or family dinners; everyone will want seconds!
Embrace the joy of cooking with this delightful blend of flavors and textures—everyone will fall in love!
Butternut Squash Gnocchi Soup Ingredients
For the Base
• Olive Oil – Provides richness and helps sauté other ingredients. No substitutions needed.
• Plant-Based Sausage – Adds protein and a meaty texture; substitute with diced mushrooms or crumbled tempeh for a whole-food option.
• Onion – Offers aromatic flavor; yellow or white onion works best.
• Garlic – Essential for depth of flavor; fresh garlic is preferred.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Add umami and a tangy sweetness; can substitute with fresh tomatoes if necessary.
• Garlic Powder – Enhances the garlic taste; optional if using fresh garlic.
• Dried Rosemary & Thyme – Herbs that boost the soup’s earthy profile; fresh herbs can be used; double the amount for more intense flavor.
• Vegetable Broth – Forms the soup’s base; use homemade or store-bought, low-sodium preferred.
For the Main Ingredients
• Butternut Squash – Main flavor and texture component; can substitute with sweet potatoes or pumpkin, with slight adjustments in cooking time.
• Salt & Pepper – For seasoning; adjust to taste.
• Gnocchi – Provides heartiness; adds a chewy texture; use store-bought or homemade.
• Kale – Adds nutrition and color; spinach or Swiss chard can also work.
For Creaminess
• Half-and-Half – Adds creaminess; substitute with full-fat coconut milk or a cashew cream blend for a dairy-free version.
Dive into this delightful Butternut Squash Gnocchi Soup and enjoy the cozy comfort it brings!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Butternut Squash Gnocchi Soup
Step 1: Heat the Oil
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-low heat. Allow the oil to shimmer, creating a light haze, which indicates it’s ready for cooking. This step lays the foundation for our savory Butternut Squash Gnocchi Soup, infusing the dish with rich flavors from the get-go.
Step 2: Sauté the Sausage
Add in your sliced plant-based sausage and sauté for 10-15 minutes until golden brown, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. The sausage will become crispy on the edges, filling your kitchen with a delightful aroma. Once done, remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside, letting those tasty bits stay behind to flavor the next ingredients.
Step 3: Cook the Aromatics
In the same pot, toss in one diced onion, sautéing for about 5 minutes until it turns translucent. This will create a savory base for your soup. Stir often and enjoy watching the onions soften, releasing their sweetness and mingling with the leftover sausage flavors in the pot.
Step 4: Add Garlic and Herbs
Next, add 3 minced garlic cloves, ½ cup of sun-dried tomatoes, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary, and 1 teaspoon of dried thyme. Sauté everything for another minute until fragrant—this is the moment when the kitchen truly comes alive with aromatic goodness.
Step 5: Incorporate the Broth and Squash
Pour in 4 cups of vegetable broth and add 2 cups of peeled and cubed butternut squash. Season generously with salt and pepper. Scrape any brown bits off the bottom of the pot, which will enhance your Butternut Squash Gnocchi Soup’s flavor, and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 6: Simmer to Perfection
Allow the soup to simmer uncovered for 15-25 minutes, or until the butternut squash is fork-tender. Keep an eye on it, as it develops a lovely golden color while the flavors deepen, making your kitchen smell heavenly and inviting.
Step 7: Add Gnocchi and Kale
Stir in 1 package of gnocchi and 2 cups of chopped kale. Cook for about 2 minutes or until the gnocchi float to the surface. This visual cue indicates that they’re cooked through and ready to enjoy, adding an irresistible heartiness to your Butternut Squash Gnocchi Soup.
Step 8: Finish with Creaminess
Reduce the heat to low and gently stir in 1 cup of half-and-half and the previously sautéed sausage. Let everything mingle on low heat for another minute, just until warmed through, creating that creamy texture that defines this cozy soup.
Step 9: Adjust and Serve
Taste the soup one last time, adjusting seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed. Ladle the warm, comforting Butternut Squash Gnocchi Soup into bowls, and prepare to serve this delightful dish that promises warmth and satisfaction with every spoonful.
Make Ahead Options
This Butternut Squash Gnocchi Soup is an ideal candidate for meal prep, perfect for those busy weeknights! You can prep the soup base—sautéing the sausage, onion, garlic, and adding broth and butternut squash—up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in the refrigerator, ensuring it’s tightly sealed to maintain its vibrant flavors. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply bring the soup back to a simmer, add the gnocchi and kale, and finish by stirring in the half-and-half and sausage. This way, you’ll enjoy a cozy bowl of soup that tastes just as delightful as when freshly made, saving you crucial time while still delivering comfort with every spoonful!
What to Serve with Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi Soup
Create a delightful dining experience by complementing this cozy soup with vibrant side dishes that enhance its comforting flavors.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, a warm crusty loaf adds a satisfying crunch and allows you to savor every last drop of the soup.
- Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with lemon vinaigrette adds brightness, balancing the richness of the soup with a light, tangy touch.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These caramelized bites of goodness add depth and a nutty flavor, enhancing the earthy notes of the butternut squash.
- Garlic Parmesan Breadsticks: Soft, cheesy breadsticks provide a wonderful contrast in texture, making your meal feel even more indulgent and enjoyable.
- Apple Crisp for Dessert: A warm apple crisp brings a sweet end to your meal, with cinnamon notes that echo the cozy spices in your soup.
- Chai Tea: A warm cup of spiced chai tea complements the soup beautifully, adding a soothing warmth and aromatic complexity.
Pair these delightful options with your creamy butternut squash gnocchi soup for a full, satisfying experience that delights the senses!
Expert Tips for Butternut Squash Gnocchi Soup
Cooking Time Matters: Adjust the cooking time based on the type of squash; fresh butternut squash cooks differently than frozen.
Watch the Gnocchi: After adding gnocchi, be mindful as it absorbs broth and can thicken the soup. Add more vegetable broth if needed when reheating.
Frequent Tasting: Taste as you cook! Ensuring the seasoning is just right makes all the difference in your butternut squash gnocchi soup.
Texture Check: For a smoother soup, blend a portion of the soup before adding the gnocchi and kale, creating a delightful contrast.
Customize to Your Liking: Feel free to add extra vegetables like carrots or mushrooms to enhance flavor and nutrition.
How to Store and Freeze Butternut Squash Gnocchi Soup
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Leave some space for expansion as it freezes.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove. Add broth as needed if it thickens too much while reheating.
Storing Ingredients Separately: If possible, store gnocchi and soup separately to maintain texture. Combine them when ready to serve for the best experience!
Butternut Squash Gnocchi Soup Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize your soup experience with these delightful twists and substitutions!
- Dairy-Free Creaminess: Use full-fat coconut milk or a cashew cream blend instead of half-and-half to maintain the creaminess without dairy.
- Add Extra Veggies: Toss in diced carrots or celery for a boost of nutrition and texture. These additions bring a great color pop and crunch!
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a lovely aromatic finish when serving.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped jalapeños for a heat level that can warm you from the inside out. Spice it up and embrace the warmth!
- Protein-Packed: Swap in cooked lentils or chickpeas for a protein punch, making it even more filling without sacrificing flavor.
- Creamy Cheese Bliss: Stir in some goat cheese or a sprinkle of Parmesan at the end for a luscious finish, enhancing the dish’s richness beautifully.
- Swap Gnocchi: Try using homemade or store-bought pasta shapes if gnocchi isn’t your thing—this will give a different texture and mouthfeel. The possibilities are endless!
- Flavor Boost: Marinate sun-dried tomatoes in balsamic vinegar before adding, providing a tangier, robust flavor to the soup base.
Each variation opens up a world of flavor, just like in my warm and delicious Italian Penicillin Soup. Enjoy the journey of creating your perfect Butternut Squash Gnocchi Soup!
Butternut Squash Gnocchi Soup Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select a ripe butternut squash?
When choosing butternut squash, look for a squash that has a tan, matte skin and a firm texture. It should feel heavy for its size, indicating ripeness. Avoid any squash with dark spots, soft areas, or blemishes. These are signs of overripeness, which can lead to a less than desirable flavor in your soup.
How should I store leftover Butternut Squash Gnocchi Soup?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing the container to prevent condensation. If you’d like to retain the best texture for your gnocchi, it’s often best to store the gnocchi separately from the soup until ready to enjoy.
Can I freeze Butternut Squash Gnocchi Soup?
Absolutely! To freeze, ladle the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving enough headspace for expansion—about an inch from the top. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge, and gently reheat it on the stove, adding a splash of vegetable broth if necessary to restore its creamy texture.
What should I do if my soup turns out too thick?
If your Butternut Squash Gnocchi Soup is thicker than you’d like, simply add more vegetable broth or water while reheating until you reach your desired consistency. Remember, the gnocchi will continue to absorb liquid, so it’s wise to add some broth as you gently warm it up.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! This soup is naturally vegetarian and can be made dairy-free by substituting half-and-half with full-fat coconut milk or a cashew cream blend. Additionally, always double-check the ingredients for any potential allergens, especially if sharing with friends or family who may have dietary restrictions like gluten or nut allergies.
Butternut Squash Gnocchi Soup: Your Cozy Comfort Bowl
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-low heat until shimmering.
- Add sliced plant-based sausage and sauté for 10-15 minutes until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté one diced onion for about 5 minutes until translucent.
- Add 3 minced garlic cloves, ½ cup of sun-dried tomatoes, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary, and 1 teaspoon of dried thyme. Sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in 4 cups of vegetable broth and add 2 cups of cubed butternut squash. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Simmer uncovered for 15-25 minutes or until the squash is fork-tender.
- Stir in 1 package of gnocchi and 2 cups of chopped kale. Cook for about 2 minutes until the gnocchi float.
- Reduce heat to low and gently stir in 1 cup of half-and-half and the sautéed sausage. Warm through.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm in bowls.
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