Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi: A Deliciously Comforting Recipe

Introduction

Welcome to EatBrightly! I’m Mia Langston, a passionate chef and nutrition enthusiast living in the heart of Asheville, North Carolina. Today, I’m excited to share a recipe that brings together the cozy flavors of fall with a touch of indulgence: Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi. This dish is not only a perfect way to embrace the seasonal bounty, but it also exemplifies my philosophy that healthy food should be both nourishing and joyful. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just dipping your toes into the world of homemade gnocchi, this recipe is designed to be approachable and utterly delicious.

What Makes This Recipe Special

Key Benefits

This Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dish, offering a velvety texture and rich flavor profile that’s hard to resist. The pumpkin not only adds a subtle sweetness but also packs a nutritional punch with its high vitamin A content. Moreover, this dish is vegetarian-friendly and can be easily adapted for vegan diets.

Unique Features

What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity paired with gourmet appeal. The gnocchi is light and pillowy, made from scratch with just a few ingredients. The creamy sauce, infused with earthy sage and nutty Parmesan, elevates the dish to a restaurant-quality experience in the comfort of your home. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead meal, perfect for those cozy nights in or special family gatherings.

Ingredients for Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

Optional Add-ins

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage
• 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
• 1/4 cup heavy cream or coconut cream (for a vegan option)

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Preparation Steps

1. Begin by setting up your workspace with all the necessary ingredients and tools. This makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, egg, Parmesan cheese, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
3. Gradually add the flour, folding it into the mixture until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this could make the gnocchi tough.

Cooking Process

1. Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and gently knead it a few times until it holds together. Divide the dough into four portions.
2. Roll each portion into a long rope, about 1/2 inch in diameter. Cut the ropes into 1-inch pieces and set aside.
3. In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the gnocchi in batches until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
4. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter or heat olive oil. Add the sage and sauté until fragrant.
5. Add the gnocchi to the skillet, tossing gently to coat them in the butter and sage. Optionally, stir in the cream or coconut cream for a richer sauce.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and toasted pine nuts.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Results

Pro Chef Tips

For the fluffiest gnocchi, avoid compacting the dough too much or overworking it. Use a gentle touch when mixing and shaping. Additionally, if you’re looking for a bit of texture, try browning the gnocchi in a pan with a little butter before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake is adding too much flour, which can result in dense gnocchi. Start with the recommended amount and only add more if the dough is too sticky. Also, ensure the water is at a rolling boil before adding the gnocchi to prevent them from becoming gummy.

Nutritional Information and Health Benefits

Calories and Macros

A serving of this Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi provides approximately 350 calories, with 10g of protein, 12g of fat, and 50g of carbohydrates. The nutritional content will vary depending on any additional ingredients or substitutions you make.

Health Benefits

Pumpkin is a powerhouse of nutrients, offering a good dose of vitamin A, fiber, and antioxidants. This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also supports immune health and digestion. The use of sage is not just for flavor; it’s known for its anti-inflammatory and cognitive-enhancing properties.

Pumpkin isn’t just cozy and comforting it’s also highly nutritious. According to Harvard Health, pumpkin is rich in vitamin A and antioxidants that support immune function, eye health, and overall wellness, making it an excellent ingredient for nourishing fall meals.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

Dietary Modifications

To make this recipe vegan, substitute the egg with a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese. Coconut cream can replace heavy cream for the sauce.

Flavor Variations

For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, to create a new flavor dimension. For a nutty twist, try incorporating some finely chopped walnuts.

t to elevate pasta night into something truly special, my Creamy Tomato and Lobster Pasta offers rich flavor with a refined touch. It’s indulgent yet balanced ideal for celebrations or cozy dinners that call for a little extra elegance.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

How to Store

Store any leftover gnocchi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you wish to freeze them, lay them out on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag.

Serving Ideas

This Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi pairs beautifully with a simple arugula salad or roasted Brussels sprouts. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside a protein like grilled chicken or tofu.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you love comforting dishes like this one, explore my full collection of Healthy Pasta and Gnocchi Recipes. You’ll find nourishing, flavor-packed meals designed to bring warmth, balance, and joy to your table without sacrificing comfort.

Conclusion

Thank you for joining me on this culinary adventure into the world of Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi. This dish embodies the essence of autumn, offering a comforting and nourishing experience that’s both simple and sophisticated. As you explore this recipe, remember that cooking is about creativity and connecting with the food you prepare. Whether you’re sharing this meal with loved ones or enjoying a quiet dinner for one, I hope it brings warmth and joy to your table. Don’t forget to check out more vibrant and wholesome recipes on EatBrightly. Happy cooking!

Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi: A Deliciously Comforting Recipe

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A cozy, indulgent dish that blends homemade pillowy gnocchi with a rich pumpkin and sage-infused cream sauce. Perfect for fall evenings or family dinners.

• Author: Mia
• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage
• Optional: 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
• Optional: 1/4 cup heavy cream or coconut cream (for a vegan option)

Instructions

1. Set up your workspace with all ingredients and tools.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine pumpkin puree, egg, Parmesan, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
3. Gradually fold in the flour until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing.
4. Transfer dough to a floured surface and knead gently. Divide into four portions.
5. Roll each portion into ropes (1/2 inch thick) and cut into 1-inch pieces.
6. Boil salted water in a large pot. Cook gnocchi in batches until they float (2–3 minutes). Remove with slotted spoon.
7. In a large skillet, heat butter or olive oil. Add sage and sauté until fragrant.
8. Add cooked gnocchi and toss to coat in butter and sage. Stir in cream or coconut cream if desired.
9. Serve hot, topped with extra Parmesan and toasted pine nuts.

Notes

For fluffier gnocchi, avoid overworking the dough. Only add extra flour if absolutely necessary. Browning the gnocchi in butter adds a delicious crispy edge.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 55mg

Keywords: pumpkin gnocchi, fall recipe, vegetarian, creamy pasta, sage, cozy dinner