Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi is a cozy fall dinner made with tender gnocchi tossed in a rich pumpkin cream sauce. Garlic, Parmesan, sage, and warm spices give this easy dish plenty of seasonal flavor.
Why This Recipe Works
- Pumpkin creates a naturally creamy, flavorful sauce.
- Gnocchi cooks quickly for an easy weeknight meal.
- Parmesan and garlic add rich savory flavor.
- Sage and nutmeg complement the pumpkin perfectly.
Ingredients
- 1 lb potato gnocchi
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken or vegetable broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried sage
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes, optional
- Fresh sage or parsley, for garnish
How to Make Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi
1. Cook the Gnocchi
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to the package directions until tender and floating. Reserve ½ cup of the cooking water, then drain.
2. Start the Sauce
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the Pumpkin
Stir in the pumpkin puree, heavy cream, and broth. Add the sage, nutmeg, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
4. Simmer
Cook the sauce for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
5. Add Parmesan and Gnocchi
Stir in the Parmesan until melted and smooth. Add the cooked gnocchi and gently toss until coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water.
6. Serve
Cook for another 1–2 minutes, then remove from the heat. Garnish with fresh sage or parsley and extra Parmesan.
Tips for the Best Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi
- Use pure pumpkin puree rather than pumpkin pie filling.
- Avoid boiling the cream sauce too vigorously.
- Add pasta water gradually to reach your preferred consistency.
- Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly.
- Add crispy sage or toasted pumpkin seeds for extra texture.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi is an easy and comforting fall meal with a rich pumpkin sauce, tender gnocchi, and savory Parmesan. Serve it on its own or alongside a simple green salad for a cozy seasonal dinner.
