Name: Pumpkin Sage Gnocchi with Brown Butter Sauce
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 cup pumpkin purée (100% pure, not pie filling); 1 cup ricotta cheese (drained if watery); 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving); 1 large egg; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1 1/2–2 cups all-purpose flour (as needed); 6 tablespoons unsalted butter; 8–10 fresh sage leaves

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pumpkin sage gnocchi is the epitome of comfort food. The pumpkin adds a subtle sweetness and vibrant color, while the sage brings an earthy, aromatic flavor. The brown butter sauce ties it all together with its nutty richness. This dish looks impressive but is surprisingly simple to make, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Pumpkin purée
Ricotta cheese
All-purpose flour
Grated Parmesan cheese
Egg
Salt and pepper
Nutmeg
Unsalted butter
Fresh sage leaves
Extra Parmesan for serving

Directions

In a large bowl, combine pumpkin purée, ricotta, Parmesan, egg, salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Stir until smooth.
Gradually add flour until a soft dough forms. It should be slightly sticky but workable.
Transfer dough to a floured surface. Roll into long ropes and cut into bite-sized pieces. Use a fork to gently press ridges into each piece if desired.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Drop gnocchi in batches and cook until they float to the surface, about 2–3 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon.
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sage leaves and cook until the butter turns golden brown and fragrant.
Toss cooked gnocchi in the brown butter sauce until coated.
Serve with extra Parmesan sprinkled on top.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation takes about 25 minutes, cooking takes 15 minutes, and total time is approximately 40 minutes.

Variations

Add crispy pancetta or bacon for a savory twist.
Use sweet potato purée instead of pumpkin for a different flavor.
Make it creamy by adding a splash of heavy cream to the brown butter sauce.
Top with toasted walnuts or pine nuts for added crunch.
Use gluten-free flour to make the recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover gnocchi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a little butter over medium heat until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the gnocchi rubbery. Cooked gnocchi can also be frozen; spread on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin for this recipe?

Yes, canned pumpkin purée works perfectly. Just make sure it’s 100% pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling.

How do I know when the gnocchi is done cooking?

They are ready when they float to the top of the boiling water, usually within 2–3 minutes.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough a few hours in advance and keep it refrigerated until ready to cook.

What type of flour works best for gnocchi?

All-purpose flour works well, but you can also use “00” flour for a lighter texture.

Can I freeze pumpkin gnocchi?

Yes, freeze uncooked gnocchi on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen without thawing.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, use dairy-free ricotta, vegan butter, and omit the egg or replace it with a flax egg.

How do I prevent the gnocchi from being too dense?

Don’t add too much flour—just enough to make the dough workable. The lighter the dough, the fluffier the gnocchi.

What can I serve with pumpkin sage gnocchi?

A crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or grilled chicken pair beautifully with this dish.

Can I use dried sage instead of fresh?

Fresh sage is best for flavor and presentation, but dried sage can work in a pinch. Use about half the amount.

Why did my butter burn instead of browning?

Brown butter requires close attention—keep heat at medium and watch for a golden color and nutty aroma, removing it from heat quickly once ready.

Conclusion

Pumpkin sage gnocchi with brown butter sauce is a comforting, flavorful dish that celebrates the rich, warm flavors of fall. With its pillowy gnocchi, nutty sauce, and fragrant herbs, it’s both simple to prepare and impressive to serve. A dish you’ll want to revisit again and again.

Pumpkin Sage Gnocchi with Brown Butter Sauce