Gnocchi with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce Recipe
The Gnocchi with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce Recipe is pure autumn comfort in a bowl, delivering pillowy-soft gnocchi wrapped in a velvety, savory pumpkin sauce that’s both sophisticated and soul-soothing. Each bite bursts with cozy sage, aromatic garlic, and the subtle sweetness of pumpkin, all brought together with a swirl of Parmesan and cream. Whether you’re hosting a festive dinner or just want to add a little warmth to your weeknight table, this dish will delight every pumpkin and pasta lover at first forkful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All you need for this Gnocchi with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce Recipe are a handful of approachable, store-cupboard favorites that each add something essential. From golden gnocchi and luxurious cream to the savory hints of garlic and sage, every ingredient has a job—making the flavors pop and transforming your kitchen into an Italian-inspired haven.
- Potato gnocchi: These little dumplings offer light, pillowy texture—look for fresh or shelf-stable varieties in the pasta aisle.
- Olive oil: A splash brings all the aromatics to life and gives a tender, glossy finish to the sauce.
- Garlic (minced): Just two cloves add robust, fragrant depth that balances the pumpkin’s natural sweetness.
- Pumpkin puree: This is the creamy, slightly sweet star that makes the sauce both velvety and vibrant in color.
- Heavy cream: For luscious silkiness, cream binds all the flavors together (you can swap in half-and-half for a lighter touch).
- Parmesan cheese (grated): Adds salty, umami richness and helps thicken the sauce naturally.
- Salt: Enhances every other ingredient—don’t skip it!
- Black pepper: Grounds the sauce with a touch of warmth and faint spice.
- Ground nutmeg: Just a pinch brings subtle, autumnal aromatic notes that pair beautifully with pumpkin.
- Fresh or dried sage: Sage infuses the dish with earthy, herby character—fresh is best, but dried works in a pinch.
- Optional red pepper flakes: Sprinkle on top for a gentle kick and gorgeous color contrast.
How to Make Gnocchi with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Gnocchi
Fill a large pot with salted water and set it over high heat. Once the water is boiling merrily, drop in your gnocchi. You’ll see them sink at first, but keep a close eye—they only take about 2 to 3 minutes and are done when they float to the surface. Scoop them out promptly so they keep their perfect, tender texture. Set aside while you start on that addictive sauce!
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Pour the olive oil into a large skillet over medium heat. When it’s nicely shimmering, add the minced garlic. Stir it for about half a minute—it should smell irresistible but not get browned. This brief sauté infuses the oil (and ultimately the whole dish) with a gentle garlic fragrance that brings the pumpkin sauce to life.
Step 3: Build the Creamy Pumpkin Sauce
Spoon in the pumpkin puree right on top of that aromatic garlic. Let it sizzle for a minute so it thickens slightly and deepens in flavor. Now, stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and your sage. Give everything a good stir and let the sauce gently simmer for 2 to 3 minutes—you want it silky, cohesive, and gorgeously orange.
Step 4: Combine Gnocchi and Sauce
Tip the tender cooked gnocchi into the skillet, gently tossing to coat every morsel with that golden, creamy sauce. Simmer the gnocchi and pumpkin sauce together for another 1 to 2 minutes, just enough for the flavors to mingle and the sauce to cling seductively to each dumpling. The aroma at this point is absolutely mouthwatering!
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Dish up the gnocchi straight from the pan while it’s hot and luscious. For the final flourish, scatter extra Parmesan, a sprinkle of chopped fresh sage, and a pinch of red pepper flakes over each serving. This perfect touch invites everyone to dig in—no fancy plating required, just pure, cozy indulgence!
How to Serve Gnocchi with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing transforms your Gnocchi with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce Recipe into something truly restaurant-worthy. Shave or grate extra Parmesan on top for salty punch, or add a handful of finely chopped fresh sage for a pop of green. If you love a hint of heat, a flurry of red pepper flakes brings contrast and makes those pumpkin hues stand out. Even a drizzle of nutty browned butter (if you’re feeling decadent!) works brilliantly.
Side Dishes
This velvety gnocchi dish is rich and comforting, which makes it perfect alongside lighter sides. A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette offers palate-cleansing freshness, or try roasted Brussels sprouts or asparagus for earthy balance. Serve with a hunk of crusty bread to swipe up any leftover sauce—no judgment here!
Creative Ways to Present
Elevate your Gnocchi with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce Recipe by serving it in shallow bowls or on a large platter, beautifully swirled. For special dinners, you can spoon the gnocchi into mini pumpkin shells or ramekins for individual, autumn-themed portions. If you’re hosting a party, top with extra sage leaves fried crisp in butter—everyone will be wowed by your presentation skills.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Gnocchi with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The sauce thickens slightly as it sits, making leftovers extra luscious. To avoid sticking, drizzle a few drops of cream on top before closing the lid.
Freezing
While cooked gnocchi is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze this dish if needed. Let the gnocchi and pumpkin sauce cool to room temperature, then portion into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to one month. Thaw gently in the fridge overnight before reheating for the best texture.
Reheating
To reheat, pour the gnocchi and sauce into a skillet or saucepan over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally until heated through. The microwave also works in a pinch—use medium power and stir halfway for even warming.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Simply swap the heavy cream for a plant-based alternative (like coconut or cashew cream), use vegan Parmesan, and double-check your gnocchi are egg-free. The Gnocchi with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce Recipe will still be decadently creamy and flavorful.
Can I use homemade gnocchi instead of store-bought?
Homemade gnocchi works beautifully and elevates the dish even more. If you have a favorite recipe (or leftover mashed potatoes!), this is a great way to showcase it. Just cook the homemade gnocchi as usual and proceed with the sauce.
What if I don’t have sage?
You can substitute with fresh thyme or a pinch of dry Italian herbs; both complement pumpkin well. If you’re in a pinch, even a handful of fresh spinach tossed into the sauce adds herby, earthy notes.
Will this recipe work with other types of gnocchi (like cauliflower or sweet potato)?
Yes, you can swap in cauliflower, sweet potato, or gluten-free gnocchi for a twist! Each type Main Course.
Is there a lighter version of the sauce?
Certainly—swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or even whole milk for a lighter, lower-fat sauce. The sauce won’t be quite as luscious, but it will still cling beautifully and taste wonderful.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for pure comfort, flavorful simplicity, and a dish that truly captures the essence of fall, you can’t go wrong with the Gnocchi with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce Recipe. Give it a try and let it brighten the coziest nights—your taste buds will absolutely thank you!
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Gnocchi with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of fall with this delicious Gnocchi with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce recipe. Tender potato gnocchi coated in a velvety pumpkin sauce, accented with savory Parmesan and aromatic sage, this dish is a hearty and satisfying vegetarian option perfect for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 (16-ounce) package potato gnocchi
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
Pumpkin Sauce:
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage (chopped) or ½ teaspoon dried sage
- Optional: red pepper flakes for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the top, about 2–3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Pumpkin Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the pumpkin puree and cook for 1 minute. Add heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and sage. Stir until smooth and creamy, then simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Combine and Serve: Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet and gently toss to coat with the pumpkin sauce. Simmer for 1–2 more minutes until everything is warmed through. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan, fresh sage, and red pepper flakes if desired.
Notes
- You can use half-and-half instead of cream for a lighter version.
- Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms for extra texture and nutrients.
- This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or roasted Brussels sprouts.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
