Sheet Pan Gnocchi with Spicy Sausage, Butternut Squash & Hot Honey

If you’re looking for a cozy and comforting dish that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious, you’ve come to the right place! This Sheet Pan Gnocchi with Spicy Sausage, Butternut Squash & Hot Honey has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen. It’s one of those recipes that effortlessly combines the warmth of roasted vegetables with the satisfying heartiness of gnocchi and sausage. Plus, the drizzle of hot honey adds just the right kick to elevate your taste buds!

Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a relaxed family gathering, this dish fits any occasion perfectly. You can prep everything on one sheet pan, pop it into the oven, and let the heat do all the work while you sit back and relax. Trust me; once you try this recipe, it will become your go-to for quick dinners!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan wonder: Everything cooks together in one place, making cleanup a breeze!
• Flavor explosion: The combination of spicy sausage and sweet butternut squash creates a perfect balance of flavors.
• Meal prep friendly: Cook once and enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week!
• Customizable: Easy to adapt with your favorite veggies or proteins.
• Family-approved: Even picky eaters will love this hearty meal!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe features simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Let’s gather what we need for our delicious Sheet Pan Gnocchi with Spicy Sausage, Butternut Squash & Hot Honey.

For the Veggies and Gnocchi

• 4 cups cubed butternut squash
• 1 red onion, halved and sliced
• 1 (16 ounce) package shelf-stable gnocchi
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1 tablespoon fresh chopped sage leaves (optional!)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 4 uncooked spicy Italian chicken or beef sausages (I prefer chicken!)

For Topping

• 4 ounces feta or goat cheese, crumbled
• 2 to 3 tablespoons hot honey (plus more if you’d like), for drizzling
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• Lemon zest, for brightness

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Use turkey sausage or even plant-based sausage for a lighter option.
• Change up the veggies: Try using sweet potatoes or bell peppers instead of butternut squash.
• Add some greens: Toss in some spinach or kale during the last few minutes of baking for added nutrition.
• Experiment with cheese: Swap out feta for ricotta or mozzarella based on your preference!

How to Make Sheet Pan Gnocchi with Spicy Sausage, Butternut Squash & Hot Honey

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first! Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F. A hot oven helps everything cook evenly and gives those veggies a nice golden color. Don’t forget to line a large baking sheet with parchment paper; this makes cleanup so much easier!

Step 2: Prepare Your Veggies and Gnocchi

On your lined baking sheet, add the cubed butternut squash, sliced red onion, and gnocchi. Drizzle them all with olive oil and sprinkle on fresh thyme leaves, sage (if using), garlic powder, salt, and some freshly ground black pepper. Using clean hands—because who doesn’t love getting a little messy?—toss everything together until well coated. Spread it out into an even layer; this allows everything to roast beautifully.

Step 3: Add the Sausage

Next comes the fun part! Remove the sausage from its casing and break it into bite-sized pieces right onto your sheet pan. This method is super quick compared to rolling meatballs! Don’t worry if some sausage overlaps with the gnocchi or veggies; they’ll all get cozy in there while they bake.

Step 4: Bake Away!

Pop that glorious sheet pan into your preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes. Halfway through, gently stir everything around so that each piece gets its time in the spotlight. You’ll know it’s ready when everything is tender and starting to caramelize.

Step 5: Add Cheese

Once you pull it out of the oven, sprinkle crumbled feta or goat cheese all over your hot mixture. Pop it back in for another 5 minutes just to warm that cheese up nicely. The smell will be irresistible!

Step 6: Drizzle & Serve

Finally, drizzle your creation generously with hot honey—about 2 tablespoons should do—but feel free to add more if you want extra sweetness! Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and a bit of lemon zest for brightness before serving warm. Enjoy every bite—it’s truly comfort food at its finest!

Pro Tips for Making Sheet Pan Gnocchi with Spicy Sausage, Butternut Squash & Hot Honey

This recipe is all about simplicity and flavor, so here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time!

• Choose the right gnocchi: Opt for shelf-stable gnocchi for convenience. It cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors from the spices and sausage beautifully.
• Don’t skip the parchment paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper not only makes cleanup a breeze but also helps achieve that golden, crispy texture without sticking.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the seasoning! Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can boost the heat even more, complementing the spicy sausage perfectly.
• Use fresh herbs: Fresh thyme and sage elevate the dish’s flavor profile. Their aromatic qualities enhance every bite and make your kitchen smell incredible!
• Drizzle generously with hot honey: The sweet heat from hot honey is what ties this dish together. Don’t hold back—add extra if you love that sweet kick!

How to Serve Sheet Pan Gnocchi with Spicy Sausage, Butternut Squash & Hot Honey

Presenting your sheet pan meal can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to make your dish look as good as it tastes.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle extra fresh thyme or sage on top right before serving for a pop of color and flavor.
• Lemon zest: A bright sprinkle of lemon zest adds freshness and vibrancy to each plate.
• Crushed nuts: For added texture, consider topping with crushed walnuts or pistachios; they offer a delightful crunch that complements the creamy cheese.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the gnocchi while keeping things fresh.
• Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover hot honey or cheese sauce, making it a comforting side.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The slight bitterness of roasted Brussels sprouts complements the sweetness of butternut squash beautifully.
• Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans: These veggies add a nice crunch and vibrant color to your meal while being quick to prepare.

With these serving suggestions and tips, you’ll not only enjoy a delicious dinner but impress everyone at your table! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Sheet Pan Gnocchi with Spicy Sausage, Butternut Squash & Hot Honey is not just a delightful meal; it’s also fantastic for meal prep! You can easily prepare this dish in advance, making it a great option for busy weekdays.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3-4 days for the best flavor and texture.
• Refrain from adding hot honey until you’re ready to reheat, as it can lose its drizzle quality when stored.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months. Remember to label with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe:

Can I use different sausages in my Sheet Pan Gnocchi with Spicy Sausage, Butternut Squash & Hot Honey?

Absolutely! While spicy Italian chicken sausages are a favorite, feel free to experiment with other types of sausage that suit your taste preferences. Just ensure they are uncooked and suitable substitutes.

How do I make my Sheet Pan Gnocchi with Spicy Sausage, Butternut Squash & Hot Honey less spicy?

If you prefer a milder dish, opt for mild Italian sausages instead of spicy ones. You can also reduce or omit any additional spicy seasonings you might add.

What can I serve with Sheet Pan Gnocchi with Spicy Sausage, Butternut Squash & Hot Honey?

This dish is hearty on its own but pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or some crusty bread. You could also serve it alongside roasted vegetables for an extra veggie boost!

Can I use fresh gnocchi instead of shelf-stable gnocchi?

Yes! Fresh gnocchi will work fine; just be mindful of adjusting your cooking time since fresh gnocchi cooks faster than shelf-stable varieties.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Sheet Pan Gnocchi with Spicy Sausage, Butternut Squash & Hot Honey! It’s not only easy to prepare but also brings together wonderful flavors that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your own variations or experiences with this recipe. Happy cooking!