Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi is the perfect blend of autumnal comfort food and rich, savory flavor. With its creamy texture, delicate sweetness from maple syrup, and the boldness of balsamic vinegar, it’s a treat for the taste buds. The addition of miso paste adds depth to the sauce, while the crispy fried sage gives the dish a crunchy contrast. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for a special occasion, this recipe is sure to satisfy.

Ingredients

• 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 sage, chopped (and fried for serving – see notes)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Gnocchi: In a large pot of salted water, cook the gnocchi according to package instructions. Once they float to the surface, remove them with a slotted spoon and set aside.
2. Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper and cook, stirring occasionally, until they soften, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Make the Sauce: Add the pumpkin purée, coconut cream, white miso paste, maple syrup, and balsamic vinegar to the skillet. Stir well to combine and cook over medium heat, allowing the sauce to simmer and thicken, about 5-8 minutes.
5. Combine Gnocchi and Sauce: Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet, tossing gently to coat the gnocchi in the creamy sauce. Let everything simmer together for another 3-4 minutes.
6. Fry Sage: In a small pan, fry the chopped sage in a bit of olive oil until crispy, about 1-2 minutes.
7. Serve: Spoon the creamy gnocchi into bowls and garnish with the crispy fried sage. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation time: 10 minutes
• Cooking time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: For added protein, consider adding cooked chicken, sausage, or even crispy tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Vegan Option: This dish is already vegan with the use of coconut cream and miso paste. Ensure the gnocchi is vegan-friendly or make your own.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a bit of heat.
• Swap Coconut Cream: If you’re not a fan of coconut cream, substitute it with heavy cream or a dairy-free alternative like oat cream.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or vegetable broth to loosen the sauce if needed. You can also reheat in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use homemade gnocchi for this recipe?

Yes, you can use homemade gnocchi in place of store-bought. Just be sure to cook it until it floats in the water.

Can I use another type of cream instead of coconut cream?

Yes, you can use heavy cream, oat cream, or any other dairy or non-dairy cream substitute, though the flavor may differ slightly.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It depends on the gnocchi you use. If you use store-bought gluten-free gnocchi or make your own, the recipe can be gluten-free.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the gnocchi ahead of time. Simply store them separately and reheat when ready to serve.

How do I make crispy sage?

To make crispy sage, heat olive oil in a pan and fry fresh sage leaves until they become crispy and fragrant. It only takes about 1-2 minutes.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

You can freeze the gnocchi and sauce together. Store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Can I use canned pumpkin instead of fresh pumpkin puree?

Yes, canned pumpkin works perfectly for this recipe.

How do I know when the gnocchi is cooked?

Gnocchi is ready when it floats to the surface of the boiling water. Once it does, allow it to cook for another minute or two.

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Feel free to add spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra flavor and texture.

Can I use a different vinegar?

Yes, balsamic vinegar works well here, but you can substitute with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi is a dish that brings together the best of savory and sweet flavors, with a creamy, comforting sauce that will have you coming back for more. Whether served as a standalone meal or paired with your favorite protein, it’s a versatile and indulgent dish perfect for any time of year. With easy-to-follow directions and the option for various customizations, it’s sure to become a family favorite!

Print