As autumn settles in, there’s a distinct magic in the air. The world transforms into a canvas of vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows, and with the season comes a craving for cozy, soul-warming meals. For me, nothing captures the heart of fall quite like Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi. This dish combines the earthy sweetness of pumpkin with the savory allure of sage, tied together by the pillowy softness of gnocchi. Each bite is a celebration of the season’s best flavors, a perfect meal for cool evenings and gatherings with loved ones.

Pumpkin is more than just a seasonal trend. It’s a symbol of harvest and abundance, featured prominently in the traditions of many cultures. Growing up, pumpkin recipes were a staple in our home during fall, from sweet pies to hearty soups. This Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi is a modern take on those traditions, marrying classic fall ingredients with an Italian-inspired flair. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet elegant enough to serve at a festive gathering.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe will guide you step-by-step, making the process approachable and rewarding. The best part? It comes together in under 30 minutes, giving you more time to enjoy its rich, comforting flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfect for Fall: It captures the essence of the season with pumpkin and sage as its star ingredients.
Quick and Easy: Even with its impressive flavor, this dish is ready in under 30 minutes.
Adaptable: It’s naturally vegan, with simple substitutions for gluten-free diets.
Restaurant-Quality at Home: The velvety sauce and crispy sage topping elevate this gnocchi to something truly special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

16 oz gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
2 tbsp olive oil
1/2 yellow onion, chopped
1 small red bell pepper, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup pumpkin purée
1/2 cup unsweetened coconut cream*
1 tbsp white miso paste
1 tsp maple syrup
2 tsp balsamic vinegar
2 tbsp fresh sage, chopped (plus extra for frying, optional)

How to Make Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi

Step 1: Build a Flavorful Base

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil shimmers, add the chopped onion and let it cook for 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and translucent. The caramelized edges add a touch of sweetness that enhances the dish.

Once the onion is golden and fragrant, add the garlic and red bell pepper. The garlic brings its signature punch, while the bell pepper lends a subtle sweetness that balances the sauce. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning the garlic.

Step 2: Create the Pumpkin Sauce

Transfer the sautéed vegetables to a blender or food processor. Add the pumpkin purée, coconut cream, white miso paste, and maple syrup. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy, transforming these simple ingredients into a rich, velvety sauce.

Return the sauce to the skillet, keeping it over low heat to maintain its warmth. Stir in the balsamic vinegar for a subtle tang and balance. The sauce is now ready to envelop your gnocchi in its creamy embrace.

Step 3: Cook the Gnocchi

While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Gently drop in the gnocchi, taking care not to overcrowd the pot. Fresh gnocchi cooks quickly, usually floating to the surface within 1-2 minutes.

Using a slotted spoon, transfer the gnocchi directly into the skillet with the sauce. Don’t discard all the cooking water! Reserve about 1/2 cup to adjust the sauce’s consistency.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Toss the gnocchi gently in the sauce, ensuring each piece is coated in creamy pumpkin goodness. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved cooking water to loosen it. The starchy water helps the sauce cling beautifully to the gnocchi.

Stir in the freshly chopped sage, allowing its earthy, aromatic flavor to permeate the dish.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

For an extra flourish, top the dish with fried sage leaves. To make them, heat a small amount of oil in a skillet, then fry whole sage leaves for about 30 seconds until crisp. Drain on paper towels, and use them as a garnish.

Serve the gnocchi warm, paired with a simple green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Helpful Tips

Homemade vs. Store-Bought Gnocchi: If you’re short on time, store-bought gnocchi is perfectly fine. However, homemade gnocchi can add a personal touch if you’re up for it.
Balancing the Sauce: If the sauce becomes too thick, a splash of vegetable broth or the reserved cooking water will bring it back to a silky consistency.
Fried Sage Leaves: These are optional but highly recommended. The crispy texture and bold flavor make the dish restaurant-worthy.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Diet: Vegan

Notes

Coconut Cream Substitute: If coconut cream isn’t your favorite, try using cashew cream or any plant-based heavy cream. These alternatives work well to achieve the same rich consistency.
Pumpkin Purée: Be sure to use pure pumpkin purée, not pumpkin pie filling, as the latter is sweetened and spiced.
Make It Your Own: Feel free to add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat or a handful of toasted pumpkin seeds for extra texture.
Serving Suggestions: Pair the gnocchi with a crisp side salad or roasted Brussels sprouts for a balanced meal. A slice of crusty bread can help soak up every bit of the creamy sauce.
Leftovers Tip: As gnocchi tends to absorb the sauce when stored, reheating with a splash of broth or water will help restore the creamy texture.
Meal Prep-Friendly: You can prepare the pumpkin sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat and toss with freshly cooked gnocchi when ready to serve.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or vegetable broth to restore the sauce’s creaminess. While the dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the sauce separately for up to 2 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Look for gluten-free gnocchi at your local grocery store or make your own using gluten-free flour blends.

Can I substitute the coconut cream?
If you prefer not to use coconut cream, try cashew cream or a plant-based heavy cream alternative.

What can I serve alongside this dish?
A crisp side salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the creamy gnocchi beautifully. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with roasted vegetables or a light soup.

Related Recipes

If you’re a fan of this Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi, you’ll love these other seasonal dishes:

Cozy Creamy Pumpkin Pasta

Conclusion

Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi is more than just a recipe—it’s an invitation to savor the flavors of fall in the coziest way possible. The dish’s velvety sauce, tender gnocchi, and fragrant sage create a symphony of tastes that’s both comforting and indulgent. It’s quick to make, adaptable, and perfect for sharing with those you love.

So, light a few candles, set the table, and let this gnocchi dish transport you to a world of autumnal bliss. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just treating yourself, it’s sure to become a seasonal favorite that you’ll return to again and again. Enjoy every bite!

Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi: A Bowl of Autumn Comfort

Author: Diane M

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