Irresistible Pumpkin Gnocchi with Crispy Sage Butter Sauce

If you’re craving a cozy, comforting dish that embodies the flavors of fall, look no further than Pumpkin Gnocchi with Crispy Sage Butter Sauce. This dish combines delicate, pillowy gnocchi made from smooth pumpkin puree with a rich and nutty butter sauce infused with fragrant crispy sage leaves. The result is a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors that will warm your heart and delight your taste buds every single time you take a bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Seasonal Satisfaction: Pumpkin brings natural sweetness and vibrant color that screams fall comfort food.
• Perfect Texture: Soft gnocchi with a slightly chewy bite contrasts beautifully with crispy fried sage.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with just a handful of pantry staples that are easy to find and combine effortlessly.
• Elegant Yet Easy: Looks impressive for guests but requires minimal fuss and fuss-free cooking steps.
• Versatile Flavor Profile: Pairs well with a variety of herbs, cheeses, and proteins for customizable meals.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in Pumpkin Gnocchi with Crispy Sage Butter Sauce plays a crucial role in crafting the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. Carefully selected pantry basics come together seamlessly to create a satisfying plate of gnocchi that’s sure to impress.

• Pumpkin puree: Use canned or homemade pumpkin for creamy texture and subtle sweetness.
• All-purpose flour: The binding agent that helps shape tender, fluffy gnocchi.
• Ricotta cheese: Adds richness and moisture, making gnocchi soft and light.
• Parmesan cheese: Provides savory umami to enhance the overall flavor profile.
• Egg yolk: Acts as a natural binder, ensuring your gnocchi hold together beautifully during cooking.
• Butter: Used for the sauce; browns perfectly to deliver nutty depth and crisp sage.
• Fresh sage leaves: The star herb that crisps up in butter, adding fragrance and a unique herbal punch.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasoning to elevate every component in the dish.

Variations for Pumpkin Gnocchi with Crispy Sage Butter Sauce

One of the best parts about Pumpkin Gnocchi with Crispy Sage Butter Sauce is its adaptability. Whether you want to suit dietary needs or experiment with different flavors, there are plenty of easy ways to make this recipe your own.

• Gluten-free option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, but adjust for dough consistency carefully.
• Vegan version: Replace ricotta and eggs with plant-based alternatives like cashew cream and flax eggs, and swap butter for vegan margarine.
• Spiced pumpkin twist: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon to the dough for an extra cozy autumn flavor.
• Cheese variations: Swap parmesan for pecorino or a sharp aged cheddar to vary the cheesy notes.
• Add crunch: Toasted walnuts or pine nuts sprinkled on top offer a delightful textural contrast.

How to Make Pumpkin Gnocchi with Crispy Sage Butter Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Pumpkin Gnocchi Dough

Start by combining pumpkin puree, ricotta cheese, and grated parmesan in a large mixing bowl. Add in the egg yolk and a pinch of salt, then gradually incorporate the flour. Mix gently until the dough comes together but remains soft and slightly sticky. Be careful not to overwork, or your gnocchi will become dense.

Step 2: Shape the Gnocchi

Lightly flour your work surface and divide the dough into small portions. Roll each portion into ropes about half an inch thick. Using a knife, cut the ropes into bite-sized pieces. Optional: gently press each gnocchi against a fork to create ridges that help hold sauce.

Step 3: Cook the Gnocchi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Drop the gnocchi in batches, cooking until they float to the surface—this usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer cooked gnocchi to a warm plate or bowl.

Step 4: Prepare the Crispy Sage Butter Sauce

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add fresh sage leaves and cook until the butter is golden brown and the leaves are crispy—this should take about 3 to 4 minutes. Be cautious not to burn the butter as it can turn bitter.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet with the sage butter and toss gently to coat evenly. Sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper and extra parmesan if desired. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Gnocchi with Crispy Sage Butter Sauce

• Measure flour carefully: Too much flour will make gnocchi heavy; use just enough to bring the dough together.
• Keep dough cool: Working with a slightly chilled dough prevents stickiness and makes shaping easier.
• Use fresh sage: Fresh leaves crisp better than dried and provide a more vibrant aroma.
• Don’t rush cooking: Wait until gnocchi float before removing from water to ensure perfect doneness.
• Brown butter slowly: Watch the color and smell closely to avoid burning and bitterness in your sauce.

How to Serve Pumpkin Gnocchi with Crispy Sage Butter Sauce

Garnishes

Top your dish with a sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan or pecorino, a handful of toasted pumpkin seeds for crunch, and an extra drizzle of browned butter to elevate aroma and richness.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a crisp autumn salad with apple slices and toasted walnuts or a simple sautéed green vegetable like kale or swiss chard. A glass of lightly chilled white wine such as Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully too.

Creative Ways to Present

For an impressive presentation, plate the gnocchi in shallow bowls, drizzle the sage butter sauce artistically, and scatter sage leaves and microgreens on top. You can also nestle the gnocchi in roasted pumpkin wedges for a rustic touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Pumpkin Gnocchi with Crispy Sage Butter Sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Gnocchi can become a bit soft, so gently reheat to maintain texture.

Freezing

Freeze uncooked gnocchi spread on a baking sheet for a couple of hours, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 1 month and can be cooked directly from frozen by adding a minute or two to the boiling time.

Reheating

To reheat, sauté leftover gnocchi in a small amount of butter over medium heat until warmed through and slightly crisp on the outside, recreating that delightful texture.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin for this recipe?

Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree is a convenient and reliable choice for consistent texture and flavor in your gnocchi dough.

What makes gnocchi light and fluffy?

The right balance of flour and ricotta, gentle mixing to avoid overworking, and cooking until they float helps achieve that perfect light and airy bite.

Can I substitute sage with another herb?

Yes, thyme or rosemary also pair nicely when fried in butter, but sage’s earthy, aromatic profile is traditional and especially complementary to pumpkin.

How do I prevent gnocchi from sticking together?

Flour your work surface and hands generously while shaping, and cook in small batches to give them enough room to float freely.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, the gnocchi can be made ahead and frozen, and the sage butter sauce can be prepared fresh when ready to serve for the best taste.

Final Thoughts

There truly is nothing quite like Platefuls of soft, comforting Pumpkin Gnocchi with Crispy Sage Butter Sauce to bring the warmth and joy of autumn right to your table. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe promises irresistible flavor and cozy satisfaction that will keep you coming back for more. Give it a try and watch this seasonal favorite become your go-to comfort meal!

Related Posts

• How to Master Pan-Seared Rockfish Today
• How to Perfect Seared Ahi Tuna Steaks Every Time
• Why Pan-Seared Orange Roughy Tastes Amazing

Print