Butternut Squash Gnocchi Recipe Vegan and Delicious Ideas

Butternut squash gnocchi is a delightful twist on traditional gnocchi, offering a naturally sweet, velvety texture that pairs perfectly with a variety of sauces. This vegan recipe brings the warmth and comfort of fall right to your table with wholesome, plant-based ingredients.

If you’ve ever wanted to try making gnocchi from scratch but thought it was too complicated, this recipe proves otherwise. The combination of roasted butternut squash and simple pantry staples creates a tender, pillowy dough that’s surprisingly easy to work with.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply looking for a new, nourishing dish to add to your repertoire, these butternut squash gnocchi will quickly become a favorite.

The secret lies in roasting the squash to bring out its natural sweetness and moisture, then mixing it with flour and a pinch of seasoning to form the dough. From there, it’s all about shaping, boiling, and tossing in your favorite vegan sauce.

This recipe is perfect for cozy dinners, entertaining friends, or meal prepping for the week. Plus, it’s gluten-free adaptable and can be customized with herbs and spices to suit your taste.

Ready to impress yourself and your loved ones? Let’s dive into the full recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Butternut squash gnocchi offers a delicious alternative to traditional potato gnocchi with a vibrant color and slightly sweet flavor that complements countless sauces. It’s vegan-friendly, packed with nutrients, and made from simple ingredients you likely have on hand.

The texture is soft yet holds together beautifully, making these gnocchi perfect for sautéing or boiling. This recipe is also versatile—you can easily swap out flours to make it gluten-free or add spices like sage or nutmeg for different flavor profiles.

Moreover, making gnocchi at home is a rewarding experience that impresses dinner guests and brings a sense of accomplishment. It’s affordable, wholesome, and a fantastic way to use seasonal produce.

Ingredients

• 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 pounds), peeled and cubed
• 1 to 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for warmth)
• Salt to taste
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for roasting and sautéing)
• Water, for boiling

Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Potato masher or fork
• Large pot for boiling
• Slotted spoon
• Rolling surface or clean countertop
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Large skillet (optional, for sautéing)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the peeled and cubed butternut squash with 1 tablespoon olive oil and a pinch of salt. Spread evenly on a baking sheet.
2. Roast the squash for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until it is fork-tender and caramelized on the edges. This brings out the natural sweetness essential for flavor.
3. Remove the squash from the oven and let it cool slightly. Transfer to a mixing bowl and mash thoroughly with a potato masher or fork until smooth. Avoid leaving large chunks.
4. Add nutmeg, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt to the mashed squash and stir well.
5. Gradually add flour, starting with 1 cup, mixing gently until a soft dough forms. You may need to add up to ½ cup more flour depending on moisture content. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
6. Lightly flour your workspace. Divide the dough into 4 portions. Roll each portion into a long rope about ¾ inch thick.
7. Cut the ropes into 1-inch pieces. To create the classic gnocchi ridges, gently roll each piece over the back of a fork or a gnocchi board.
8. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Drop the gnocchi in batches, stirring gently to prevent sticking.
9. Cook until the gnocchi float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and place them on a plate.
10. Optionally, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in the cooked gnocchi and sauté until golden on the outside for extra texture.
11. Serve immediately with your favorite vegan sauce or seasoning.

Tips & Variations

“If your dough feels too sticky, add flour a tablespoon at a time but be careful not to overdo it or your gnocchi will become dense.”

• Use sweet potatoes or pumpkin as an alternative to butternut squash for a similar flavor and texture.
• Add fresh herbs like sage, rosemary, or thyme into the dough or sauce to enhance the flavor.
• For gluten-free gnocchi, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and add a teaspoon of xanthan gum to help bind.
• Try different sauces: a simple garlic and olive oil drizzle, vegan pesto, or a creamy cashew sauce all pair wonderfully.
• Make larger batches and freeze uncooked gnocchi on parchment paper. Once frozen, transfer to a ziplock bag and cook straight from frozen.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This butternut squash gnocchi is incredibly versatile. For a simple, elegant meal, drizzle with browned vegan butter and fresh sage leaves.

The nutty flavor of browned butter complements the sweetness of the squash beautifully.

Alternatively, toss the gnocchi in a vibrant vegan pesto or a garlic tomato sauce for a hearty, comforting dish. Roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or sautéed mushrooms make excellent side dishes.

For a fresh touch, sprinkle crushed toasted walnuts or pine nuts and a pinch of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley to brighten the dish.

Looking for more vegan comfort food ideas? Check out our Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe or try the savory Lion’S Mane Mushroom Crumble Recipes for delicious plant-based inspiration.

Conclusion

Making vegan butternut squash gnocchi from scratch is a rewarding and delicious way to enjoy seasonal produce in a comforting dish. This recipe balances the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash with the satisfying texture of homemade gnocchi, all while keeping it plant-based and wholesome.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, these gnocchi offer a beautiful presentation and delightful taste that will impress.

With simple ingredients, minimal equipment, and easy-to-follow steps, you can enjoy restaurant-quality gnocchi without leaving your kitchen. Plus, the recipe’s flexibility means you can tailor it to your dietary needs and flavor preferences.

For more vegan recipes that bring joy to your plate, explore dishes like our Harvest Hash Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Fall Comfort Food. Happy cooking and bon appétit!

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