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As the leaves turn vibrant shades of orange and gold and the air fills with the crispness of autumn, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm, hearty dish that embraces the essence of the season. The "Harvest Harmony: Butternut Squash & Sausage Gnocchi Bake" is a perfect embodiment of this sentiment. This recipe showcases the delightful marriage of flavors and textures, making it an ideal centerpiece for gatherings and family meals during the cooler months.

Butternut Squash & Sausage Gnocchi Bake

Celebrate the flavors of fall with the Harvest Harmony: Butternut Squash & Sausage Gnocchi Bake. This comforting casserole features roasted butternut squash, savory Italian sausage, and pillowy gnocchi, all topped with a delicious blend of cheeses. Perfect for autumn gatherings, this dish brings warmth and joy to your table. Easy to prepare and full of rich flavors, it’s a delightful centerpiece for any cozy meal. Get ready to savor every bite!
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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, to your taste), 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, for added heat)

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it's ready for your delicious bake.

    Roast the Butternut Squash: On a baking sheet, toss the cubed butternut squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, a pinch of salt, and freshly cracked pepper. Spread the pieces out in a single layer. Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is tender and caramelized, flipping them halfway through to ensure even cooking.

      Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the sausage (with casings removed), breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the sausage is browned and fully cooked. Incorporate the minced garlic, dried thyme, dried sage, and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for an additional minute until fragrant and the garlic is softened.

        Combine Ingredients: Once the butternut squash is roasted, add it to the skillet with the cooked sausage. Mix in the chopped spinach and stir until the spinach wilts, which should take about 2 minutes. Remove the skillet from heat.

          Mix the Cheeses: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until all the cheeses are blended and season with a sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste.

            Assemble the Bake: In a large baking dish, combine the gnocchi with the sausage and butternut squash mixture along with the cheese blend. Gently mix everything together until evenly distributed. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for that perfect melty finish.

              Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.

                Serve: Once baked to perfection, take the dish out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve warm to enjoy its comforting flavors.

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

                    - Presentation Tips: For an added touch, serve each portion with a sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil for richness.