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Kabocha Squash Gnocchi Recipe

Kabocha squash gnocchi served in a white bowl, garnished with crispy sage leaves, cracked black pepper, and grated cheese.

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This cozy Kabocha Squash Gnocchi recipe brings the warmth of fall to your table with soft, sweet gnocchi tossed in nutty brown butter and sage sauce. Perfect for a comforting vegetarian dinner or holiday side dish.

  • Author: Emily
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Boiled and Sautéed
  • Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 1 medium kabocha squash (about 23 lbs)
  • 1 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
  • 1 large egg
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 810 fresh sage leaves
  • Grated parmesan cheese, for garnish
  • Toasted pine nuts or walnuts (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Halve the kabocha squash, remove seeds, and place cut-side down on a baking sheet. Roast for 45–50 minutes or until fork-tender. Let cool and scoop out the flesh.
  2. Mash the squash in a bowl. Add egg, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Gradually add flour until a soft, slightly tacky dough forms.
  3. Divide dough into 4 pieces. Roll each into a rope, cut into 1-inch pieces, and shape with a fork to create ridges.
  4. Bring a pot of salted water to boil. Drop in gnocchi and cook until they float (about 2–3 minutes). Remove and set aside.
  5. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sage and cook until butter is browned and sage is crisp.
  6. Add cooked gnocchi to the skillet and gently toss in the brown butter sauce.
  7. Serve with grated parmesan and toasted nuts if desired.

Notes

  • Don’t overwork the dough to keep the gnocchi light and fluffy.
  • Use a gnocchi board or fork to create ridges for better sauce coverage.
  • Freeze uncooked gnocchi on a tray before storing in bags for up to 1 month.
  • For a gluten-free version, use a neutral-flavored gluten-free flour blend.