If you’re looking for a delicious and simple dinner option that packs a punch of flavor, look no further than this Sheet Pan Gnocchi with Spicy Sausage, Butternut Squash & Hot Honey recipe. Combining crispy gnocchi, roasted butternut squash, and bold spicy sausage with a sweet yet spicy drizzle of hot honey, this one-pan meal will quickly become a go-to for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The beauty of this dish lies not only in its taste but also in its effortless preparation. In just a matter of minutes, you can have a hearty meal ready to go, all with minimal cleanup!
What’s more, this recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to incorporate seasonal vegetables or adjust the spice levels according to your preference. Each bite is a delightful mix of savory, sweet, and spicy that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet dinner at home or serving friends, the charm of this sheet pan gnocchi lies in its simplicity and bold flavors.
With just a few ingredients, you can create a comforting meal that feels gourmet without the fuss. Ready to dive into this culinary adventure? Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Sheet Pan Gnocchi with Spicy Sausage
- Delicious Flavor Fusion: The combination of spicy sausage, sweet butternut squash, and zesty hot honey creates an irresistible flavor profile.
- Effortless Cleanup: Cooking everything on a single sheet pan means less hassle and minimal cleanup after a satisfying meal.
- Quick Preparation: This recipe takes less than an hour from start to finish, making it perfect for busy evenings!
- Customizable Ingredients: Swap out ingredients based on your preferences—whether it’s different spices, sausages, or vegetables.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Leftovers taste just as great, making this dish ideal for meal prepping for the week!
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you start whipping up this delicious Sheet Pan Gnocchi, it’s important to prepare your kitchen and workspace to make the cooking process as smooth as possible. Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) and lining a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier after cooking.
Make sure you have all the ingredients ready, including the cubed butternut squash, sliced red onion, shelf-stable gnocchi, and spicy Italian sausages. Having everything pre-measured and chopped will not only speed up your cooking time but also let you enjoy the process more. Prepare your kitchen tools such as a mixing bowl for tossing ingredients, a knife for chopping, and a spatula for stirring while everything cooks on the sheet pan.
Ingredients
- 4 cups cubed butternut squash
- 1 red onion, halved and sliced
- 1 (16 oz) package shelf-stable gnocchi
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh sage (optional)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 uncooked spicy Italian sausages (chicken or pork)
- 4 oz crumbled feta or goat cheese
- 2–3 tbsp hot honey, plus more if desired
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- Lemon zest, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is key to achieving perfectly roasted vegetables and crispy gnocchi. While the oven is heating, prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. This not only helps with easier cleanup but also prevents the ingredients from sticking together.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients on the Sheet Pan
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed butternut squash, sliced red onion, and shelf-stable gnocchi. Drizzle the mixture with the extra-virgin olive oil, then sprinkle with fresh thyme, sage (if using), garlic powder, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Toss everything together until the ingredients are evenly coated. Once mixed, transfer the mixture to the prepared baking sheet, spreading it out in a single layer for even roasting.
Step 3: Add the Sausage
Remove the casing from the spicy Italian sausages. Break the sausage meat into 1-inch pieces and scatter them evenly over the vegetable and gnocchi mixture. This will allow the savory flavors from the sausages to meld with the vegetables as they roast.
Step 4: Roast and Stir
Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and roast for 25 minutes. About halfway through the cooking time, stir the mixture to ensure even cooking and browning. You want the gnocchi to be crispy and the vegetables to be tender. After 25 minutes, check for doneness and continue baking if necessary, adjusting the time based on your oven.
Step 5: Add Toppings and Serve
Once everything is well roasted, sprinkle the crumbled feta or goat cheese over the top and return it to the oven for an additional 5 minutes. This will allow the cheese to melt and adhere to the gnocchi and vegetables. After this, remove the pan from the oven and drizzle generously with hot honey for that spicy-sweet touch. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and a sprinkle of lemon zest for a fresh finish before serving warm.
Variations
- Protein: Substitute spicy Italian sausage with chicken or turkey sausage for a leaner option. Alternatively, feel free to use plant-based sausage for a vegetarian version.
- Vegetables: Experiment with seasonal vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts for a different taste and texture.
- Spices: Adjust the spice levels by adding crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat or incorporating smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure not to overcrowd the sheet pan; this helps in achieving that beautiful caramelization on the vegetables and gnocchi.
- For a gluten-free version, opt for gluten-free gnocchi available at most grocery stores.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve this dish with a side of mixed greens topped with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- Pair with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc to enhance the meal’s flavor profile.
Tips
- Prep your butternut squash by peeling and cubing it ahead of time to save prep time during the week.
- Make it a complete meal by adding a protein-rich salad or a rustic loaf of bread on the side!
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 400 per serving
- Protein: About 20 grams
- Sodium: Roughly 800 mg
FAQs
Can I use frozen gnocchi instead of shelf-stable?
Yes, frozen gnocchi works well too. Just adjust the cooking time slightly since frozen gnocchi may take a little longer to cook.
What if I leave out the sausage?
Leaving out the sausage is absolutely fine! You can replace it with more vegetables or a plant-based protein for a vegetarian dish.
How can I reheat leftovers?
Reheat leftovers in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or in a microwave for a quick option.
Can this dish be made ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare all your ingredients ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator; just bake right before serving.
Conclusion
This Sheet Pan Gnocchi with Spicy Sausage, Butternut Squash & Hot Honey is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will please anyone at your dinner table. It’s not only quick to prepare but also offers an array of options for customization, ensuring that every family member can enjoy their meal. The best part is that cleanup is a breeze, leaving you with plenty of time to relax and enjoy your evening. Try it this week, and you may find it sneaking into your regular dinner rotation! We’d love to hear how you enjoyed this dish, so feel free to share your thoughts and any variations you tried in the comments below!
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Sheet Pan Gnocchi with Spicy Sausage, Butternut Squash & Hot Honey
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A delicious and simple dinner option that packs a punch of flavor.
Ingredients
- 4 cups cubed butternut squash
- 1 red onion, halved and sliced
- 1 (16 oz) package shelf-stable gnocchi
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh sage (optional)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 uncooked spicy Italian sausages (chicken or pork)
- 4 oz crumbled feta or goat cheese
- 2–3 tbsp hot honey, plus more if desired
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- Lemon zest, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cubed squash, sliced onion, and gnocchi. Drizzle with oil, sprinkle with thyme, sage, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, and toss to coat.
- Remove the sausage casing and break the sausage meat into pieces. Scatter over the mixture.
- Roast for 25 minutes, stirring halfway, until the gnocchi is crispy and vegetables are tender.
- Add cheese and roast an additional 5 minutes. Drizzle with hot honey and garnish with thyme and lemon zest before serving.
Notes
Adjust spice levels according to preference and experiment with seasonal vegetables.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: Approximately 400 kcal
- Sodium: Roughly 800 mg
- Protein: About 20 g