Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe delightful aroma of sautéing sausage mingles with the earthy scent of pumpkin and fresh herbs, and just like that, my kitchen transforms into a cozy autumn haven. Welcome to my take on Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Spinach and Sausage—a comforting one-pan meal that brings together all the best flavors of the season. In just 30 minutes, you can create a dish that not only fills your belly but also warms your heart on those chilly evenings. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something hearty yet quick to whip up. Trust me, the creamy texture and vibrant colors will have everyone gathered around the table in no time. Curious about how to make this comforting feast? Let’s dive into the details! Why is Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi a Must-Try? Comforting and nourishing, this creamy pumpkin gnocchi dish is perfect for cozy evenings when you want something filling yet quick. One-Pan Wonder: With everything cooked in a single skillet, cleanup is a breeze! Seasonal Flavors: The combination of pumpkin, fresh herbs, and savory sausage creates a rich flavor profile that screams autumn. Time-Saving: Ready in just 30 minutes, it fits perfectly into even the busiest schedules. Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a family dinner, this meal is bound to impress, just like my Honey Cheesecake for dessert! Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi Ingredients • Embrace the flavors of fall with this delightful recipe! For the Base Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps in browning the sausage; substitute vegetable oil if necessary. Italian Sausage (12 oz) – Provides protein and a spicy kick; can switch to chicken sausage for a leaner option. Potato Gnocchi (10 oz) – The heart of the dish; tender dumplings that cook quickly; choose shelf-stable or refrigerated options. For the Sauce Heavy Cream (1 cup) – Creates a luxurious and creamy sauce; use half-and-half for a lighter alternative. Chicken Broth (⅓ cup) – Enhances depth of flavor in the sauce; vegetable broth works well for a vegetarian version. Pumpkin Purée (1 cup) – Gives the dish its signature flavor and color; canned or homemade purée is both delicious. Aromatic Touches Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Infuses the dish with aromatic flavor; fresh garlic is recommended over substitutes. Fresh Spinach (4 oz) – Adds color and nutrition; kale or Swiss chard can be used instead. Fresh Sage (2 tablespoons, chopped) – Provides a warm, earthy flavor; dried sage is okay in a pinch (1 tablespoon). Fresh Thyme (2 tablespoons) – Offers subtle aromatic notes; substitute with dried thyme if needed (1 tablespoon). Seasoning Salt and Coarsely Ground Black Pepper – Season to taste; adjust based on personal preference and sausage seasoning. Gather these ingredients to whip up an irresistible Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi that will warm your heart and delight your taste buds! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi Step 1: Heat the Oil In a large, high-sided skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat until shimmering. This should take about 1-2 minutes. Ensure your skillet is wide enough to allow the gnocchi to cook evenly later on. You’ll know the oil is ready when it begins to lightly ripple, signaling it’s perfect for sautéing. Step 2: Cook the Sausage Add 12 oz of sliced Italian sausage to the skillet and sauté for 4 minutes on one side, allowing it to brown nicely. After 4 minutes, flip the sausage and cook for an additional 2 minutes until browned all over. The sausage should have a delicious golden hue, and the aroma will fill your kitchen, signaling that you’re well on your way to making creamy pumpkin gnocchi. Step 3: Add Gnocchi and Liquid Once the sausage is browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet. Then, add 10 oz of uncooked potato gnocchi along with 1 cup of heavy cream and ⅓ cup of chicken broth. Stir gently to combine the ingredients, then bring the mixture to a boil. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 5 minutes, during which time the gnocchi will cook and soak up all the flavors. Step 4: Stir in Pumpkin and Garlic After 5 minutes, remove the lid and stir in 1 cup of pumpkin purée and 3 minced garlic cloves. Mix well until the ingredients are fully combined and creamy. The pumpkin will bring a rich color to the sauce, and you’ll notice a mouthwatering aroma beginning to emerge as it melds with the garlic. Step 5: Incorporate Spinach Next, add 4 oz of fresh spinach to the pan, stirring until it’s evenly distributed. Return the mixture to a gentle boil. Allow it to cook for about 3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the sauce thickens just slightly. You’ll see the spinach shrink down, creating a beautiful contrast against the creamy orange sauce of your pumpkin gnocchi. Step 6: Finish with Herbs and Seasoning Finally, fold in 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh sage and 2 tablespoons of fresh thyme into your creamy pumpkin gnocchi. Season with salt and coarsely ground black pepper to taste. Allow the mixture to heat for an extra minute, letting the herbs infuse their aromatic goodness. Your dish is ready to serve, looking vibrant and inviting! Expert Tips for Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi Thicker Sauce: To achieve a creamier texture, let the gnocchi simmer a bit longer in the sauce before serving. Seasoning Check: Always taste the sausage before adding salt—different brands can vary in saltiness, ensuring your creamy pumpkin gnocchi is perfectly seasoned. Fresh vs. Dried Herbs: Fresh herbs elevate flavor, but in a pinch, dried herbs can be used. Just remember to reduce the amount to maintain balance. Veggie Options: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite veggies like mushrooms or roasted peppers—they’ll enhance the dish while keeping it delightful. Meal Prep Friendly: This creamy pumpkin gnocchi can be made ahead of time and stored. Just reheat gently, adding a splash of broth for the best consistency. Variations & Substitutions for Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi Feel free to get creative with this recipe and discover new flavors that excite your palate! Pasta Swap: Try using your favorite pasta instead of gnocchi for a new texture. This gives a different mouthfeel while still being deliciously comforting. Vegetable Medley: Incorporate other vegetables like sautéed mushrooms or roasted red peppers for extra color and flavor. They will not only enhance the taste but also pack a nutritious punch! Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free option that adds a subtle sweetness, creating a delightful balance. Herb Variation: Swap fresh herbs for dried ones. If you’re using dried thyme or sage, reduce the amount to one-third of the fresh quantity to keep the flavors vibrant and not overpowering. Protein Twist: For a lighter alternative, substitute the Italian sausage with cooked chickpeas or lentils to create a hearty vegetarian version full of plant-based protein. Spice it Up: Add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for a little kick, creating a delicious contrast with the creamy pumpkin sauce. Nutty Addition: Stir in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts for an unexpected crunch that complements the softness of the gnocchi beautifully. Creamy Spin: For a different creamy element, consider using a blend of cream cheese and broth to mimic the heavy cream while adding its distinctive tang. Keep these variations in mind as you explore the world of flavors with your own personalized version of Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi! And for those nights when comfort food calls, you might want to check out my delicious Tomato Pasta or a refreshing Deviled Egg Pasta Salad as side dishes. What to Serve with Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Spinach and Sausage Dive into a delightful autumn meal experience that tantalizes your taste buds. Garlic Bread: The crispy, buttery exterior pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce, perfect for soaking up every delicious drop. Arugula Salad: A light, peppery salad provides a refreshing contrast, balancing the rich flavors of the pumpkin gnocchi. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their nuttiness enhances the hearty dish, adding texture and a touch of earthiness to your dinner table. Crispy Sage Chips: Made by frying fresh sage leaves, they add a delightful crunch and amplify the herbal notes of the dish. Apple Cider: This warm drink offers a sweet and spicy undertone that complements the cozy pumpkin flavors wonderfully. Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake: Introduce a sweet finale with this dessert, embracing the pumpkin theme while offering a rich, satisfying end to the meal. Chardonnay: A glass of this white wine adds lightness to your dinner, harmonizing well with the creamy texture and savory sausage. Seasoned Roasted Potatoes: Crispy yet tender potatoes laced with herbs enhance the warmth and heartiness of the pumpkin gnocchi. Buttery Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a burst of freshness and a touch of sweetness that balances the savory flavors wonderfully. How to Store and Freeze Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi Fridge: Store any leftover creamy pumpkin gnocchi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream if it thickens. Freezer: For longer storage, place the dish in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, heat on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a bit of additional liquid (broth or cream) to restore creaminess. Serving Suggestion: Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning as needed, bringing the creamy pumpkin gnocchi back to life! Make Ahead Options These creamy pumpkin gnocchi are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prep the entire dish up to 3 days in advance by cooking the gnocchi and sauce, then storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. To maintain quality, allow the gnocchi to cool completely before refrigerating and ensure the sauce is covered to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, simply reheat the sauce in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if it thickens too much, and then toss in the gnocchi until warmed through. This way, you can savor the comforting flavors of creamy pumpkin gnocchi with minimal effort on busy weeknights! Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Spinach and Sausage Recipe FAQs What is the best way to select ripe pumpkin for this recipe? Absolutely! When choosing a pumpkin for your creamy pumpkin gnocchi, look for one that feels heavy for its size, with a smooth skin and no dark spots or blemishes. A pumpkin with a vibrant orange color will have the best flavor and sweetness. If you’re opting for canned pumpkin purée, just make sure to choose 100% pure pumpkin without any additives. How should I store leftover creamy pumpkin gnocchi? For leftovers, store your creamy pumpkin gnocchi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much. This little tip helps keep the dish creamy and delicious! Can I freeze creamy pumpkin gnocchi? Yes, you can! To freeze your creamy pumpkin gnocchi, place it in a freezer-safe container and store it for up to 2 months. For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. When ready to eat, heat it on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally and adding a bit of broth or cream to restore the desired consistency. What should I do if the sauce is too thin? If you find the sauce for your creamy pumpkin gnocchi is too thin, don’t worry! Simply let it simmer over low heat for a few extra minutes until it thickens to your liking. You can also add a touch of cornstarch mixed with water to help thicken it, stirring until combined. Just be sure to monitor it closely while it cooks! Is this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions? Very! You can easily adapt this creamy pumpkin gnocchi for dietary needs. To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free gnocchi or pasta. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the sausage and add chickpeas for a protein boost. Always check ingredient labels for allergens, especially the sausage and broth, to ensure they fit your specific dietary requirements. Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi: Easy Comfort Food in 30 Minutes No ratings yet Delight in this creamy pumpkin gnocchi, a comforting and quick autumn dish, featuring pumpkin, spinach, and sausage. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 400 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Base2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can substitute vegetable oil12 oz Italian Sausage Or use chicken sausage10 oz Potato Gnocchi Choose shelf-stable or refrigeratedFor the Sauce1 cup Heavy Cream Use half-and-half for lighter option⅓ cup Chicken Broth Vegetable broth works for vegetarian1 cup Pumpkin Purée Canned or homemade is fineAromatic Touches3 cloves Garlic Minced; fresh recommended4 oz Fresh Spinach Kale or Swiss chard can be used2 tablespoons Fresh Sage Dried sage can be substituted (1 tablespoon)2 tablespoons Fresh Thyme Dried thyme can replace (1 tablespoon)SeasoningSalt To tasteCoarsely Ground Black Pepper To taste Equipment Large high-sided skillet Method InstructionsHeat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering, about 1-2 minutes.Add sliced Italian sausage and sauté for 4 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes until browned.Drain excess fat, then add potato gnocchi, heavy cream, and chicken broth. Stir and bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for 5 minutes.Stir in pumpkin purée and minced garlic, mixing until combined and creamy.Add fresh spinach and stir until distributed. Bring to a gentle boil, cooking for about 3 minutes until spinach wilts.Fold in chopped fresh sage and thyme, seasoning with salt and coarsely ground black pepper. Heat for an extra minute. Nutrition Serving: 1cupCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 15gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 550mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 3000IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 2mg NotesFor a thicker sauce, let the gnocchi simmer longer. Always taste sausage for saltiness before seasoning. Fresh herbs enhance the flavor, but dried can be used as substitutes. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
