Gnocchi with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that combines the comforting allure of autumn with the indulgence of Italian cuisine, then Gnocchi with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce is your ultimate go-to. Imagine tender, pillowy gnocchi bathed in a velvety sauce, bursting with savory pumpkin flavor and aromatic herbs—this is a dish that promises warmth and satisfaction with every bite.

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Gnocchi with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce requires only a handful of ingredients that come together in the most delightful symphony of flavors. Each ingredient brings its unique contribution, from the aromatic garlic to the savory pumpkin, ensuring every bite is full of depth.

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Adds a fruity richness and helps sauté the shallots to perfection.
• Shallot: Delivers a subtle sweetness and complexity to the sauce.
• Garlic: Infuses the sauce with its classic aromatic flavor.
• Butter: Provides creaminess and helps create the base of the sauce.
• Heavy Cream: Enhances the sauce’s richness and silky texture.
• Pumpkin Puree: The star ingredient, lending a hearty, autumnal essence.
• Broth: Adds depth of flavor; choose chicken or vegetable for a tailored taste.
• Cream Cheese: Thickens and gives the sauce a smooth, cheesy layer.
• Fresh Thyme and Sage: These herbs bring an earthy, aromatic note, elevating the sauce.
• Pancetta: Provides a salty, crispy contrast to the creamy sauce.
• Crispy Sage: Adds a delightful crunch and fragrance as a garnish.
• Gnocchi: The pillows of potato pasta that soak up all the creamy goodness.

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully versatile, allowing you to tweak it to your heart’s content. Whether you’re catering to dietary needs or looking to introduce new flavors, it’s simple to adapt with just a few changes.

• Vegetarian Friendly: Swap pancetta for mushrooms to keep the richness without the meat.
• Vegan Option: Use coconut cream and dairy-free cream cheese for a plant-based version.
• Cheesy Addition: Stir in some grated parmesan for an extra layer of umami-richness.

How to Make Gnocchi with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Gnocchi

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to boil on the stove. This prepares the stage for cooking your gnocchi, ensuring they’re perfectly tender once ready. As you wait, let the anticipation build—this dish is worth it!

Step 2: Sauté the Shallots and Garlic

In a large non-stick skillet, heat some extra virgin olive oil over medium heat until shimmering. Add in the diced shallot and cook for about 5 minutes. Follow with the garlic, stirring for an additional 2 minutes until they release a mouthwatering aroma.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Base

Lower the heat and introduce the butter, allowing it to melt into the shallot and garlic mix. Deglaze the pan by scraping any fond off the bottom, adding depth to the sauce. As it foams, add the heavy cream, whisking diligently.

Step 4: Incorporate Pumpkin and Herbs

Stir in the pumpkin puree along with broth, sea salt, and pepper. The mixture will thicken, developing a robust flavor. Simmer before adding the cream cheese, letting it melt beautifully as you fold in the thyme and sage.

Step 5: Finish with Gnocchi and Serve

Add the gnocchi to your boiling water, cooking until they float to the top—about 2 minutes. Simultaneously, integrate the pasta water into your sauce for the final simmer. Blend the gnocchi with the sauce, and serve garnished with pancetta and crispy sage.

How to Serve Gnocchi with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce

Garnishes

Enhance your dish with generous sprinkles of crispy pancetta and sage. These not only add a burst of flavor but also a delightful crunch, underscoring the dish’s rich, creamy base.

Side Dishes

Pair this comforting meal with a refreshing side salad or lightly roasted vegetables to balance the rich creaminess of the gnocchi sauce. Spinach or arugula would make a vibrant, savory contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a truly elegant presentation, serve your Gnocchi with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce in individual bowls with a few fresh thyme leaves sprinkled on top. A dash of grated parmesan adds a touch of sophistication.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This ensures the flavors remain intact and the gnocchi retains its delightful chewiness.

Freezing

If you’re planning to freeze the dish, do so before adding the gnocchi to the sauce, as freezing can alter their texture. Simply prepare the sauce, freeze it, and add fresh gnocchi when reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the dish over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. This maintains its original creamy texture and lusciousness.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been searching for a dish that feels like a warm hug in culinary form, this Gnocchi with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce is it. Its harmonious blend of flavors and inviting aroma promise a delectable experience that’s both comforting and sophisticated. I encourage you to take this flavorful journey—your taste buds will thank you!

Print