As the leaves turn golden and the air turns crisp, there’s a quiet magic that surrounds fall cooking, especially when it comes to crafting a comforting dish like creamy pumpkin gnocchi. This recipe melds soft, pillowy gnocchi with a rich pumpkin-infused sauce, fresh spinach, and savory Italian sausage, making it the perfect embodiment of autumn on a plate. Not only is this creamy pumpkin gnocchi an uncomplicated dish that comes together in a flash, but it’s also a delightful crowd-pleaser ideal for cozy gatherings. Whether you’re treated to a warm bowl solo or serving it up to friends and family, this dish warms the heart and fills the belly. Curious about how such a beautiful blend of flavors can come together so effortlessly? Stay with me as I guide you through this seasonal favorite! Why is Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi a must-try? Comforting flavors anchor this recipe, combining savory sausage and sweet pumpkin for a fall-inspired feast. Quick and easy to prepare, you can whip this up in under 30 minutes! Versatile enough to swap in your favorite vegetables or make it vegetarian, it caters to everyone. Plus, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any gathering, much like my Spiced Pumpkin Pancakes or Cajun Chicken Pasta – both perfect pairings for that autumn vibe! Embrace the season with this creamy delight that feels indulgent yet remains simple at heart. Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi Ingredients • You’ll love creating this comforting dish! For the Gnocchi Potato Gnocchi – A soft base that absorbs the creamy pumpkin sauce beautifully; you can experiment with other pasta types too! For the Sauce Olive Oil – Sautéing the sausage and garlic, adding a fruity flavor; always go for high-quality oil for the best taste. Italian Sausage – Offers a savory depth; feel free to substitute with vegetarian sausage or mushrooms for a meatless option. Pumpkin Puree – The star of the creamy sauce, delivering sweetness and rich color; canned pumpkin puree is super convenient! Heavy Cream – Provides a velvety texture to the sauce; consider non-dairy alternatives for a lighter version. Grated Parmesan Cheese – Enhances the umami flavor and helps thicken the sauce; nutritional yeast works for a dairy-free substitution. Minced Garlic – Infuses the sauce with aromatic warmth; fresh garlic brings out the best flavor. Nutmeg – Delivers subtle warmth that enhances the pumpkin sweetness; you could swap in cinnamon if preferred. Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning and elevating all the flavors of this creamy pumpkin gnocchi. For the Veggie Boost Fresh Spinach Leaves – Adds a vibrant pop of color and freshness to the dish; kale makes for a hearty alternative. Fresh Parsley or Basil – Optional herbs that lend brightness and color as a garnish. Feel free to mix, match, and explore your favorite substitutions while making this creamy pumpkin gnocchi experience truly yours! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi Step 1: Boil the Gnocchi Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the potato gnocchi and cook according to the package instructions, which typically takes about 2–4 minutes. Watch for the gnocchi to float to the surface, indicating they are cooked. Carefully drain them in a colander and set aside while you prepare the sauce. Step 2: Sauté the Sausage In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Crumble the Italian sausage into the skillet, cooking it for about 5–7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Stir occasionally to break it apart for even cooking. Once browned, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside, leaving the flavorful drippings in the pan. Step 3: Sauté the Garlic Lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the same skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant and golden but not burnt, as burnt garlic will spoil the flavor. This aromatic base will enhance the creamy pumpkin gnocchi sauce profoundly, creating a delightful foundation for the dish. Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce Reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in the pumpkin puree, heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix well, allowing the ingredients to combine seamlessly into a creamy sauce, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Keep stirring continuously until the sauce is smooth and heated through, then taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Step 5: Combine Gnocchi and Spinach Gently fold in the cooked gnocchi and fresh spinach leaves, stirring carefully so as not to break the gnocchi. The spinach will wilt after about 2-3 minutes, adding a vibrant color and fresh flavor to the creamy pumpkin gnocchi. Continue stirring until everything is well coated with the luxurious sauce. Step 6: Add the Sausage Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and carefully toss everything together. Cook on medium heat for an additional 2 minutes, ensuring all ingredients are evenly mixed and warmed through. The blend of flavors in this creamy pumpkin gnocchi will deepen as it continues to cook, creating an irresistible comfort dish. Step 7: Serve Your Dish Once everything is heated, spoon the creamy pumpkin gnocchi into serving bowls. Optionally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for an added burst of freshness and color. This dish is best enjoyed immediately, capturing the comforting essence of fall with every creamy, savory bite. Expert Tips for Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi Garlic Management: Don’t burn the garlic; sauté it just until fragrant to keep your sauce flavorful. Overcooked garlic turns bitter, affecting the creamy pumpkin gnocchi. Cook to Float: Make sure the gnocchi are cooked just right—watch for them to float in boiling water to know they’re done. Overcooked gnocchi can become mushy. Gentle Handling: Stir the gnocchi and ingredients gently. Overmixing can break the delicate gnocchi and affect the overall texture of your dish. Herb Options: Feel free to experiment with fresh herbs. While parsley and basil are delightful, don’t hesitate to add rosemary or sage for an aromatic twist! Temperature Control: When making the sauce, keep the heat moderate to prevent the cream from curdling, ensuring a silky finish to your creamy pumpkin gnocchi. Versatile Substitutes: Remember, this dish can easily become vegetarian by swapping the Italian sausage for your favorite plant-based options or mushrooms—delicious and inclusive! Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi Variations Customize this comforting dish to suit your taste buds and dietary needs—with enticing swaps that will awaken your culinary spirit! Vegetarian Twist: Substitute Italian sausage with your choice of vegetarian sausage or sautéed mushrooms for a meatless delight. The earthy flavors from mushrooms add depth while keeping the essence intact. Dairy-Free Option: Swap heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream for a dairy-free sauce that still maintains that rich creaminess. This alternative not only lightens the dish but adds a subtle sweetness from the coconut! Extra Veggie Boost: Incorporate bell peppers or zucchini alongside the spinach for added texture and nutrients. Roasting them slightly before adding can enhance their natural sweetness. Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or sage rather than parsley or basil. These herbs complement pumpkin beautifully, wrapping your dish in warm, aromatic flavors. Spicy Kick: For those who adore heat, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to spice up your creamy pumpkin gnocchi. It’s an easy way to elevate the dish to new flavor heights! Nutty Finish: Sprinkle crushed walnuts or pine nuts on top for a delightful crunch. This not only adds texture but brings a lovely nutty flavor that enhances the creamy sauce. Cheesy Goodness: Swap out Parmesan for other cheese options like goat cheese or feta for a tangy twist. They add a unique dimension to the dish and enhance its creaminess! Lighten It Up: Reduce the amount of cream and replace it with vegetable broth for a lighter but still delicious sauce. This simple adjustment can make your comforting dish a bit healthier without sacrificing flavor. Curious about other fall-inspired recipes? You might enjoy crafting my Pumpkin Spice Smoothie or warming up with Creamy Shrimp Alfredo for a heartwarming meal! Make Ahead Options These Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the creamy sauce (without the spinach and sausage) up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can cook the gnocchi and keep them covered in the fridge for up to 3 days—just make sure to toss them lightly in olive oil to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce gently on the stove, fold in the spinach until wilted, and add the gnocchi and cooked sausage. This way, you’ll have a delightful, homemade meal with minimal effort, just as delicious as when freshly made! What to Serve with Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi As you savor each bite of this creamy delight, consider these complementary dishes that will transform your meal into a cozy autumn feast. Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery crunch is perfect for scooping up leftover sauce, enhancing the overall experience with its comforting texture. Arugula Salad: Tossed with lemon vinaigrette, this bright and peppery salad brings a refreshing balance to the rich creaminess of the gnocchi. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crisp-tender and slightly caramelized, they lend a hearty, savory contrast that elevates the dish to a new level. Wine Pairing: A light Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc beautifully complements the earthy flavors and creamy sauce, making for a delightful pairing. Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of homemade cranberry sauce offers a seasonal flair, perfectly cutting through the richness of the dish while adding a pop of color. Pumpkin Spice Muffins: Serve these on the side for a sweet surprise, embracing the pumpkin theme and adding a deliciously warm touch to your meal. Apple Crisp: As a perfect autumnal dessert, the sweet-tart flavors and crunchy topping will leave you with a memorable finish to your comforting feast. Storage Tips for Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi Fridge: Store any leftover creamy pumpkin gnocchi in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the flavors and creamy texture. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the creamy pumpkin gnocchi in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Be sure to cool the dish completely before freezing. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to keep the sauce luscious and prevent it from thickening too much. Handling Leftovers: If the gnocchi absorbs too much sauce after being stored, feel free to add a bit more cream or broth when reheating for that perfect creamy texture. Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi Recipe FAQs What type of pumpkin puree should I use? Absolutely! You can use canned pumpkin puree for convenience, as it’s perfectly suitable for this recipe. However, if you’re feeling adventurous, homemade pumpkin puree made from roasted and blended pumpkins will add a delightful freshness and depth of flavor. How should I store leftover creamy pumpkin gnocchi? Store any leftover creamy pumpkin gnocchi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This ensures the flavors remain intact. When reheating, I recommend adding a splash of cream or broth to maintain that luscious sauce texture! Can I freeze creamy pumpkin gnocchi? Yes, you can! To freeze, let the creamy pumpkin gnocchi cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop with a bit of cream or broth for the best results. What should I do if the sauce becomes too thick? If your creamy sauce thickens too much, don’t worry! Simply add a little extra heavy cream or vegetable broth to loosen it up. Stir over medium heat until it reaches your desired consistency. Remember, a silky sauce will embrace the gnocchi beautifully! Can I make this dish dairy-free? Very much so! To create a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative. Additionally, use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for that cheesy flavor without dairy. It’s just as delightful! What can I substitute for Italian sausage? If you’re looking for vegetarian options, you can replace the Italian sausage with a plant-based sausage or mushrooms for that savory depth. Some folks even enjoy adding chopped bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor, making the dish feel lighter yet satisfying. Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi Recipe FAQs Irresistibly Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi for Fall Comfort This creamy pumpkin gnocchi blends soft gnocchi with a rich pumpkin sauce, spinach, and savory sausage for a comforting autumn dish. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 550 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Gnocchi1 pound Potato Gnocchi You can experiment with other pasta types too.For the Sauce2 tablespoons Olive Oil Go for high-quality oil for the best taste.1 pound Italian Sausage Feel free to substitute with vegetarian sausage or mushrooms.1 cup Pumpkin Puree Canned pumpkin puree is super convenient.1 cup Heavy Cream Consider non-dairy alternatives for a lighter version.1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Nutritional yeast works for a dairy-free substitution.2 cloves Minced Garlic Fresh garlic brings out the best flavor.1/4 teaspoon Nutmeg You could swap in cinnamon if preferred.to taste Saltto taste PepperFor the Veggie Boost2 cups Fresh Spinach Leaves Kale makes for a hearty alternative.to taste Fresh Parsley or Basil Optional herbs for garnish. Equipment Large PotSkilletColanderspoon Method Step-by-Step InstructionsStart by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the potato gnocchi and cook according to the package instructions for 2–4 minutes. Drain and set aside.In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Crumble the Italian sausage into the skillet and cook for about 5–7 minutes until browned. Remove sausage and leave drippings.Lower the heat to medium and add minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant and golden.Reduce heat to medium-low and stir in pumpkin puree, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix well for 3-4 minutes until smooth.Gently fold in cooked gnocchi and spinach, stirring carefully to avoid breaking the gnocchi. Cook until spinach wilts, about 2–3 minutes.Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and toss everything together. Cook on medium heat for an additional 2 minutes.Spoon creamy pumpkin gnocchi into serving bowls and garnish with parsley or basil if desired. Enjoy immediately. Nutrition Serving: 1servingsCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 20gFat: 26gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 1800IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg NotesAvoid burning the garlic to keep the sauce flavorful. You can easily make the dish vegetarian by substituting Italian sausage with plant-based options. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
