There’s something incredibly satisfying about making homemade Pumpkin Gnocchi from scratch. The bright, earthy flavors of pumpkin combined with starchy potatoes transform into fluffy little pillows that melt in your mouth. The moment the gnocchi hit the boiling water and bob to the surface, it’s as if you’ve unlocked a secret treasure in your kitchen.
This recipe came to life after browsing through the autumn display at the local market, where the vibrant pumpkins practically beckoned to me. Instead of defaulting to takeout again, I decided it was time to bring some warmth and creativity back into my meals. Infused with fragrant sage and a drizzle of vegan butter, this dish goes beyond just being a comforting staple—it’s a versatile delight that can impress at gatherings or simply lift your spirits after a long day.
If you’ve found yourself growing tired of the same old dinner options, this homemade gnocchi will refresh your culinary repertoire and remind you of the beauty of home-cooked food. Let’s dive into this simple yet rewarding recipe that beautifully combines technique with flavor!
Pumpkin Gnocchi: Why Will You Love It?
Homemade Deliciousness: Making your own Pumpkin Gnocchi allows you to experience the joy of crafting a dish from scratch, bringing a slice of Italian tradition right into your kitchen.
Vegetarian-Friendly: This recipe is naturally vegan, appealing to those seeking plant-based comfort food that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Effortless Elegance: With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that looks and tastes gourmet—a real crowd-pleaser for dinner parties.
Flavorful Twist: The combination of pumpkin and sage adds a seasonal twist that elevates traditional gnocchi to a whole new level.
Quick Cooking Time: Ready in just 10-15 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something homemade yet quick.
If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out my tips on crafting the perfect homemade pasta.
Pumpkin Gnocchi Ingredients
For the Dough
• Pumpkin – 2 ⅔ cups (300 g / 11 oz) of cubed pumpkin brings a delightful sweetness and a beautiful orange hue to your gnocchi.
• Starchy Potato – ⅔ cup (100 g / 4 oz) cubed; perfect for achieving that ideal fluffy texture!
• Salt – ½ tsp enhances the flavors of the pumpkin and potato.
• Flour – ¾ cup (95 g) to help bind the ingredients and shape the gnocchi; be sure to adjust as needed to maintain a soft dough.
For the Sage Butter
• Vegan Butter – 2 tbsp (25 g); offers a rich taste while keeping this dish plant-based and creamy.
• Sage – 2 tsp, densely packed; brings an aromatic earthiness that pairs perfectly with the pumpkin gnocchi.
Embrace the culinary adventure and transform these simple ingredients into delightful little pillows of comfort!
How to Make Pumpkin Gnocchi
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Boil the Vegetables: Dice the peeled pumpkin and potato into cubes, then simmer in a saucepan of water until fork tender, about 10-15 minutes. This softens them perfectly for mashing!
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Mash Together: Drain the cooked pumpkin and potato, then mash them until completely smooth and lump-free. This will ensure that your gnocchi have a wonderful, fluffy texture.
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Mix the Dough: Stir in the salt and gradually add enough flour to form a soft dough. Adjust the amount of flour as needed so that you get a lovely, pliable ball.
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Prepare the Surface: On a well-floured board or work surface, get ready to shape your dough. This will prevent sticking and make the process easier!
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Shape the Logs: Divide the dough into quarters and roll each piece into logs about 2 cm (¾ inch) thick. Keep your hands lightly floured to prevent sticking.
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Cut and Form: Slice the logs into pillow-shaped pieces or roll them over the back of a fork to create ridges. The ridges will help hold the sauce beautifully!
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Cook the Gnocchi: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and drop in some gnocchi. Cook until they float to the surface, signaling they’re done. Use a slotted spoon to set them aside and continue with the rest.
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Sauté the Sage: In a small saucepan, melt the vegan butter with the sage over medium heat for 3-5 minutes. Cook until the sage becomes crispy and aromatic.
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Serve with Flair: Divide the cooked gnocchi into servings and generously drizzle the sage butter over the top, adding those crispy sage leaves for an extra crunch!
Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Pumpkin Gnocchi: Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to play around with this recipe and let your creativity shine through—each twist can bring a delightful surprise!
- Sweet Potato: Swap pumpkin for sweet potato for a sweeter, richer flavor that pairs beautifully with the sage.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities—just keep an eye on the dough consistency!
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the dough for an aromatic note that complements the sage beautifully.
- Cheesy Touch: Mix in ¼ cup of nutritional yeast to the dough for a cheesy flavor without any dairy—perfect for vegan cheese lovers!
- Crispy Texture: After boiling, pan-fry the gnocchi in a bit of vegan butter to achieve a crispy outer layer that contrasts delightfully with the fluffy inside.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sage butter for a zesty twist that warms you up from the inside out.
- Mushroom Medley: Sauté some mushrooms with the sage for an umami-rich addition that elevates your dish and adds heartiness.
- Balsamic Drizzle: Finish off your plates with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for tangy sweetness that enhances the other flavors beautifully.
Enjoy exploring these variations to make your Pumpkin Gnocchi dish uniquely yours!
What to Serve with Pumpkin Gnocchi?
Imagine a cozy evening where every bite of your meal feels like a warm hug.
- Garlic Bread: The crunchy, buttery bread enhances every delicious scoop, making it a classic accompaniment for your gnocchi.
- Steamed Broccoli: Bright and fresh, this veggie adds a lovely green contrast, balancing the richness of the pumpkin gnocchi perfectly.
- Side Salad: A zesty arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing counterpoint to the savory flavors of the dish.
- Mushroom Risotto: Creamy and hearty, this pairing enriches the dining experience and complements the earthiness of the pumpkin.
- Sautéed Spinach: Lightly seasoned and wilted, sautéed spinach introduces freshness and a splash of color to your plate.
- Wine Pairing: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc is an excellent choice; its acidity cuts through the richness of the sage butter beautifully.
- Dessert Option: Finish off with a warm apple crumble, offering a sweet note that rounds out your homemade feast in style.
These delightful pairings can elevate your dining experience and create a memorable meal that everyone will love!
Make Ahead Options
These Pumpkin Gnocchi are a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy homemade comfort even on your busiest nights! You can prepare the gnocchi dough up to 24 hours in advance by shaping it into logs and refrigerating them wrapped in plastic wrap. Alternatively, consider cooking the gnocchi and then storing them in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring they are well-sealed to maintain their texture. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat them briefly in boiling water until they float, then toss with your sage butter sauce for that delightful finish. This way, you’ll have a cozy, gourmet meal ready with minimal effort!
Storage Tips for Pumpkin Gnocchi
Room Temperature: It’s best to serve pumpkin gnocchi freshly made. However, if necessary, keep at room temperature for no more than 2 hours to maintain quality.
Fridge: Store any leftover gnocchi in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little extra vegan butter to revive flavors.
Freezer: Freeze the uncooked gnocchi in a single layer on a baking sheet for up to 3 months. Once frozen, transfer to a zip-top bag. They can be cooked directly from frozen without thawing.
Reheating: To reheat cooked gnocchi, gently sauté in a pan with a bit of vegan butter until heated through, adding fresh sage for an extra boost. Enjoy the delightful taste of your pumpkin gnocchi even after storing!
Expert Tips for Pumpkin Gnocchi
Avoid Excess Flour: Add flour gradually to your dough to prevent it from becoming too dense. A soft dough makes for light and fluffy pumpkin gnocchi.
Perfectly Mash: Ensure your pumpkin and potato are completely smooth. Lumps can lead to uneven gnocchi that won’t cook properly.
Surface Prep: Flour your work surface adequately; this prevents the dough from sticking and allows for easier shaping of your gnocchi.
Floating Indicator: Use the floating method to judge doneness. Gnocchi that float to the surface are ready to be removed from the boiling water.
Sage Butter Sauté: When sautéing the sage, watch closely to prevent burning. You want crispy leaves that’ll add flavor without bitterness to your pumpkin gnocchi.
Pumpkin Gnocchi Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right pumpkin for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing a pumpkin, look for one that feels heavy for its size, with a firm skin and no dark spots all over. Varieties like Sugar Pie or Cinderella pumpkins are great for gnocchi due to their sweetness and texture. Avoid pumpkins with soft spots, which may indicate they’re overripe.
How should I store leftover pumpkin gnocchi?
Leftover pumpkin gnocchi can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to maintain their fluffy texture. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat on the stovetop with a touch of vegan butter or in the microwave until warmed through.
Can I freeze pumpkin gnocchi?
Yes, you can! To freeze uncooked pumpkin gnocchi, first arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer for about 1 hour until they’re firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag and label it with the date. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, simply add them directly to boiling water from frozen without thawing!
What should I do if my gnocchi dough is too sticky?
The more the merrier! If your gnocchi dough is sticky, sprinkle in a little extra flour, but do so gradually—about a tablespoon at a time—until you achieve a soft, workable dough that doesn’t stick to your hands. Just remember, too much flour can make the gnocchi heavy!
Is this pumpkin gnocchi safe for people with allergies?
Very! This recipe is naturally vegan, making it suitable for those avoiding animal products. However, if you or your guests have specific allergies, ensure that your flour and vegan butter are free from allergens. Options like gluten-free flour can be used if needed, though it may alter the texture slightly. Always check labels to be safe!
Can I use other herbs instead of sage?
Of course! While sage pairs beautifully with pumpkin, you can experiment with other herbs like thyme or rosemary. Just sauté them in the vegan butter until they’re fragrant (about 2-3 minutes), and enjoy a different but equally delicious flavor profile for your pumpkin gnocchi.
Pumpkin Gnocchi: A Cozy Comfort Food for Any Night
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Dice the peeled pumpkin and potato into cubes, then simmer in a saucepan of water until fork tender, about 10-15 minutes.
- Drain the cooked pumpkin and potato, then mash them until completely smooth and lump-free.
- Stir in the salt and gradually add enough flour to form a soft dough.
- On a well-floured board, shape your dough to prevent sticking.
- Divide the dough into quarters and roll each into logs about 2 cm thick.
- Slice the logs into pillow-shaped pieces or roll them over the back of a fork.
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and drop in the gnocchi, cooking until they float.
- Melt the vegan butter with the sage in a small saucepan over medium heat for 3-5 minutes.
- Divide the cooked gnocchi into servings and drizzle the sage butter over the top.