Savory Butternut Squash Gnocchi (Printable Version)

Comforting blend of butternut squash, tender gnocchi, and herbs in a warm, savory broth.

# Components:

→ Vegetables

01 - 1 medium butternut squash (about 4.4 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
02 - 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 2 medium carrots, diced
05 - 2 celery stalks, diced
06 - 2 cups baby spinach (optional)

→ Gnocchi

07 - 1 lb potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)

→ Broth & Seasonings

08 - 6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
09 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
10 - 1 teaspoon dried thyme
11 - 1 teaspoon dried sage
12 - ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
13 - ½ teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
14 - Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

→ Garnishes

15 - ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese or vegetarian alternative
16 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

# Preparation steps:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery, sautéing for 5 minutes until softened.
02 - Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
03 - Add cubed butternut squash, dried thyme, dried sage, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir to evenly coat the vegetables with the spices.
04 - Pour in vegetable broth. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and cook uncovered for 15 minutes or until the squash is tender.
05 - Use an immersion blender to partially purée the soup in the pot, leaving some texture. Alternatively, blend half of the soup and return to the pot.
06 - Add gnocchi to the soup and simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until they float and are cooked through.
07 - Stir in baby spinach and cook until wilted, about 1 minute.
08 - Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.
09 - Ladle soup into bowls and top each serving with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Pillowy gnocchi adds delightful texture
  • Velvety butternut squash creates a comforting flavor
02 -
  • For extra richness, stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk before serving
  • Swap spinach for kale or Swiss chard if desired
03 -
  • Do not overpuree the soup; leaving texture adds interest
  • Simmer gnocchi gently to avoid breaking them apart
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