Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi

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Cozy, creamy, and incredibly comforting, this Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi is fall comfort food at its finest. Each soft pillow of gnocchi is coated in a velvety pumpkin sauce, rich with garlic, parmesan, and a touch of spice. The subtle sweetness of pumpkin blends beautifully with savory cheese and cream, making this dish both luxurious and easy enough for a weeknight dinner.

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Perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need something warm and hearty, this recipe brings out the best in canned pumpkin without tasting overly sweet. It’s an autumn favorite, but we wouldn’t blame you for making it year-round.


What Kind of Gnocchi Should I Use?

Shelf-stable, refrigerated, or homemade – all will work wonderfully for this recipe. Shelf-stable gnocchi are convenient and quick to cook, making them ideal for busy nights. If you have fresh or homemade gnocchi, expect a slightly softer texture, which pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce. Just be sure not to overcook them, as they can become mushy.


Ingredients for the Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi

Gnocchi: The star of the dish. Use potato gnocchi for a soft, pillowy texture that soaks up the sauce perfectly.

Pumpkin Puree: Brings natural sweetness and creamy body to the sauce. Canned puree works great, just make sure it’s pure pumpkin, not pie filling.

Heavy Cream: Adds luscious richness and makes the sauce silky smooth.

Garlic: A couple of cloves, finely minced, give the sauce depth and a savory kick.

Parmesan Cheese: For that salty, umami boost that brings everything together.

Butter: Helps build the base of the sauce and enhances the pumpkin’s flavor.

Spinach (optional): Adds color and a fresh element to balance the richness.

Nutmeg & Sage: These warm spices highlight the pumpkin’s cozy flavor.

Salt & Black Pepper: To season to taste and enhance every ingredient.


How To Make the Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi

Step 1: Sauté the Garlic

Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

Step 2: Make the Pumpkin Sauce

Stir in the pumpkin puree, heavy cream, nutmeg, sage, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Cook the Gnocchi

While the sauce simmers, cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions. Once they float to the top, they’re ready. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Combine Gnocchi and Sauce

Add the cooked gnocchi to the pumpkin sauce and stir gently to coat every piece. Let everything heat together for a couple more minutes.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Spinach

Stir in the grated parmesan cheese until melted. If using spinach, fold it in until wilted.


Serving and Storing Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi

Serve this dish immediately while it’s hot and creamy. The sauce will thicken as it sits, so enjoy it fresh for the best texture. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce.


What to Serve With Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi?

Garlic Bread

The perfect companion to mop up every drop of sauce.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Their slight bitterness balances the richness of the dish.

Apple Walnut Salad

A crisp and fresh salad adds contrast in both texture and flavor.

Balsamic Glazed Carrots

Adds sweetness and earthiness that complements the pumpkin.

Pan-Seared Chicken Thighs

Protein-packed and pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.

White Wine (Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay)

A crisp glass rounds out the meal for an elevated touch.

Parmesan Roasted Broccoli

Another savory, cheesy veggie side that won’t compete for flavor.


Want More Pasta Ideas with a Cozy Twist?

If you love this Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi, you’ll want to check out these comfort-loaded favorites too:


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Save this cozy comfort recipe to your favorite Pinterest board so you can come back to it on chilly nights.

Did you make it your own? Try adding crispy pancetta, a splash of white wine, or roasted mushrooms for a twist. Let me know how you enjoyed it in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen Recipes on Pinterest. You never know what deliciousness you’ll find next.


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Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi

Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi


  • Author: Julia Walton
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Craving comfort in a bowl? This Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi is rich, velvety, and bursting with cozy fall flavor. Soft potato gnocchi are tossed in a luscious pumpkin cream sauce with garlic, parmesan, and hints of nutmeg and sage. Whether you’re after quick dinner ideas, creamy pasta recipes, or easy food ideas that feel gourmet, this dish hits every note. It’s perfect for chilly evenings, holiday menus, or even a surprise weeknight treat.


Ingredients

1 pound gnocchi

1 cup pumpkin puree

3/4 cup heavy cream

2 tablespoons butter

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

1 cup fresh spinach (optional)

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon dried sage

Salt and pepper to taste


Instructions

1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

2. Stir in pumpkin puree, heavy cream, nutmeg, sage, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–6 minutes.

3. Cook gnocchi according to package directions. Drain when they float to the top.

4. Add gnocchi to the pumpkin sauce. Gently stir to coat and heat through.

5. Mix in parmesan cheese until melted. Fold in spinach if using, until wilted.

6. Serve warm and enjoy immediately.

Notes

Make sure to use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie mix.

Add a splash of white wine or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra depth.

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 480
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 620mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 13g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 52g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 11g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg

Keywords: creamy gnocchi, pumpkin gnocchi, quick dinner, comfort food, fall recipes

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