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Incorporating seasonal ingredients into your cooking not only enhances the flavors of your dishes but also supports local farmers and reduces your carbon footprint. Butternut squash, a staple of autumn, brings a natural sweetness and creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the savory notes of Italian sausage. This recipe allows these ingredients to shine, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that reflects the bounty of the harvest.

Butternut Squash & Sausage Gnocchi Bake

Experience the essence of autumn with the delightful Harvest Harmony: Butternut Squash & Sausage Gnocchi Bake. This comforting dish combines sweet butternut squash, savory Italian sausage, and fresh spinach, all baked to golden perfection with a blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, this one-dish meal not only warms the heart but also celebrates seasonal ingredients while simplifying your cooking routine. Enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal this fall!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)

2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed

1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, based on preference), casings removed

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried sage

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

    Roast the Butternut Squash: On a baking sheet, toss the cubed butternut squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread it out in a single layer and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.

      Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the remaining olive oil. Add the removed sausage casings, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned and fully cooked. Add minced garlic, thyme, sage, and red pepper flakes (if desired). Sauté for another minute until fragrant.

        Combine Ingredients: Once the squash is done roasting, add it to the skillet with the sausage, followed by the chopped spinach. Stir until the spinach wilts, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat.

          Mix the Cheeses: In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Mix until well blended and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

            Assemble the Bake: In a large baking dish, combine the gnocchi, sausage and butternut squash mixture, and cheese blend. Mix gently to combine everything evenly. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.

              Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

                Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 1 hour | 4-6 servings