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Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi: Best Easy Fall Dinner

creamy pumpkin gnocchi - featured image

A comforting fall dinner featuring pillowy gnocchi tossed in a rich, creamy pumpkin sauce with crispy sage and butter. This easy weeknight meal balances sweet and savory flavors for a cozy, satisfying experience.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound shelf-stable or fresh gnocchi
  • 1 (15-ounce) can 100% pure pumpkin puree
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup fresh sage leaves
  • 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1 pinch freshly grated nutmeg
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil.
  2. Add gnocchi to the boiling water and cook according to package directions (usually 2-3 minutes) until they float. Drain and set aside; do not rinse.
  3. While water boils, pat sage leaves dry. Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
  4. Fry sage leaves in the butter until crisp and dark green (1-2 minutes). Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel, leaving the butter in the pan.
  5. Add remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the pan. Once melted, add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
  6. Add pumpkin puree to the pan and stir into the butter and garlic. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
  7. Stir in heavy cream and nutmeg. Simmer for another minute until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper.
  8. Add the drained gnocchi to the sauce and toss gently to coat evenly. If too thick, add a splash of pasta water.
  9. Plate immediately, topping with crispy sage leaves and Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

Ensure pumpkin puree is 100% pure, not pie filling. Pat sage leaves dry before frying to prevent splattering. Do not overcrowd the pan when frying sage; do it in batches if necessary. Save pasta water to adjust sauce consistency. Serve immediately as gnocchi can become gummy if sitting in sauce too long.

Nutrition

Keywords: pumpkin gnocchi, fall dinner, creamy pumpkin sauce, crispy sage, easy weeknight meal, comfort food, vegetarian dinner