A Historical Overview of Butternut Squash Gnocchi Soup
Butternut squash has long been cherished in both Native American and European cuisines for its natural sweetness and versatility. Gnocchi, an Italian dumpling made with potato or semolina, dates back to the Roman Empire, evolving into the soft, pillowy pasta we know today. This soup marries the hearty richness of Italian gnocchi with the earthy sweetness of butternut squash, often inspired by Tuscan-style soups. The result is a rustic, nourishing dish that brings together seasonal produce and comforting textures.

Savory Butternut Squash Gnocchi Soup – Easy & Delicious Homemade Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Savory Butternut Squash Gnocchi Soup is creamy, hearty, and packed with flavor—perfect for cozy fall and winter nights. With tender gnocchi, sweet butternut squash, savory sausage, and nutrient-rich kale, this soup makes a complete meal in one bowl. It’s ideal for family dinners, meal prep, or even a comforting holiday starter.
Ingredients
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1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 onion, chopped
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3 garlic cloves, minced
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4 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
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6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
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1 tsp dried thyme
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1/2 tsp nutmeg
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1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi
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2 cups chopped kale or spinach
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1 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for dairy-free)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Grated Parmesan, for garnish
Instructions
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In a large pot, brown sausage in olive oil until cooked through. Remove and set aside.
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In the same pot, sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
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Add butternut squash, broth, thyme, and nutmeg. Simmer until squash is tender, about 20 minutes.
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Use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup for creaminess, leaving chunks of squash.
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Stir in gnocchi, sausage, and cream. Cook until gnocchi float, about 5 minutes.
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Add kale and simmer 2–3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
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Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan.

Notes
Substitute sausage with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Make it vegetarian by skipping the sausage and using extra veggies.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days; gnocchi may soften over time.
Common Questions Answered
1. Can I use store-bought gnocchi?
Yes, store-bought gnocchi works perfectly in this recipe and saves time. You can also use homemade gnocchi if you’d like a more rustic touch.
2. Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Skip the sausage and use vegetable broth. Add white beans, mushrooms, or lentils for extra protein.
3. How do I make it dairy-free?
Swap heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative. It still gives a creamy texture while adding a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the butternut squash.
