Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stirred the bubbling pot of sauce, a rush of nostalgia enveloped me, transporting me to autumn evenings spent with loved ones over warm bowls of comfort. This Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Spinach captures that feeling perfectly, blending the creamy richness of pumpkin with tender, pillowy gnocchi and vibrant greens. It’s a quick and easy recipe that’s not just a feast for your taste buds, but also an inviting way to embrace the season’s flavors. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weekday meal or a dish to impress friends at dinner, this vegetarian delight has you covered. Are you ready to master this irresistible autumn classic? Let’s dive in! Why is Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi a Must-Try? Comforting Warmth: This dish embodies the cozy essence of fall, offering a delightful way to enjoy the season’s best flavors. Quick Preparation: Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, allowing you to savor homemade goodness without the fuss. Nutritious Spin: With spinach and pumpkin puree, you’ll indulge in a comforting meal packed with nutrients, striking a balance between wellness and flavor. Crowd Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this creamy gnocchi always leaves everyone reaching for seconds. Want another comforting dish? Try Creamy Beef Pasta Protein for variety! Versatile Variations: Feel free to personalize your dish with additional proteins or roasted seasonal veggies for an extra twist that keeps each meal exciting! Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi Ingredients For the Gnocchi • Gnocchi – 1 pound; serves as the base, offering a soft and pillowy texture. Opt for store-bought for convenience or whip up homemade gnocchi for a personal touch. For the Sauce • Pumpkin Puree – 1 cup; adds natural sweetness and creamy richness. Ensure it’s pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, for best flavor. • Heavy Cream – 1 cup; creates a rich and luscious sauce. Coconut cream makes a great dairy-free substitute if desired. • Parmesan Cheese – 1 cup, freshly grated, plus extra for serving; enhances the dish with a nutty, savory flavor. For a vegan alternative, nutritional yeast works well as a replacement. • Nutmeg – 1/4 teaspoon, freshly grated; brings warmth and a hint of complexity to the sauce. • Salt and Pepper – To taste; essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors. For the Aromatics • Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons; ideal for sautéing the vegetables. Can be switched with vegetable oil if you prefer an alternative. • Garlic – 3 cloves, minced; adds depth and complexity to the sauce. • Onion – 1 medium, diced; provides a sweet aromatic base when sautéed. For the Greens • Spinach – 3 cups, roughly chopped; brings vibrant color and nutrition. Fresh spinach is best, but thawed frozen spinach works nicely too. Optional for Spice • Red Pepper Flakes – Optional; adds a delightful hint of heat for those who enjoy a little kick! With these ingredients in hand, you’re just a few steps away from creating a comforting feast. Embrace the season with this delightful and creamy pumpkin gnocchi! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi Step 1: Prepare the Gnocchi Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the 1 pound of gnocchi and cook according to package instructions—typically around 2-3 minutes—until they float to the surface, indicating they’re done. Carefully reserve 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water before draining the gnocchi and setting them aside. Step 2: Sauté Aromatics In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes translucent and fragrant. Next, incorporate the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning, and build a flavorful base for your creamy pumpkin gnocchi sauce. Step 3: Make the Sauce Reduce the heat to low and stir in 1 cup of pumpkin puree, 1 cup of heavy cream, and 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese into the skillet. Season the mixture with 1/4 teaspoon of freshly grated nutmeg, as well as salt and pepper to taste. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to achieve a creamy, rich consistency. Step 4: Add Spinach Into the simmering sauce, add 3 cups of roughly chopped fresh spinach, stirring well until it wilts down and integrates into the creamy mixture—this should only take about 2-3 minutes. The vibrant color will enhance the dish, making your creamy pumpkin gnocchi even more inviting and nutritious. Step 5: Combine Gnocchi and Sauce Gently fold the drained gnocchi into the creamy pumpkin sauce, ensuring that each piece is well-coated. If the sauce appears too thick, gradually mix in a bit of the reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired creaminess. This step is key to perfectly blending the flavors and maintaining the right consistency for your dish. Step 6: Serve Once everything is combined and heated through, transfer the creamy pumpkin gnocchi to wide, shallow bowls. Garnish generously with extra Parmesan cheese and, if desired, sprinkle optional red pepper flakes for a hint of spice. This delightful presentation captures the heartwarming essence of fall while inviting diners to dig into a comforting bowl of goodness. Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi Customization Ideas Feel free to get creative and make this comforting dish your own with these exciting variations! Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a rich, non-dairy version that still delivers creaminess. Vegetable Boost: Toss in some roasted butternut squash or sautéed mushrooms to elevate the dish with extra texture and flavor. The heartiness of the mushrooms pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce, giving every bite an earthy richness. Protein-Packed: Mix in cooked chicken or sausage to add heartiness and protein. Chicken’s tenderness complements the flavors, while sausage adds a delightful spice to the overall dish. Herb Infusions: Fresh basil or sage can be added just before serving for an aromatic finish that brightens every mouthful. Their vibrant flavors will take your gnocchi to the next level! Nutty Twist: Incorporate some toasted pine nuts or walnuts for added crunch and a nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce. Imagine the delightful texture they bring with every bite! Heat It Up: For a spicy kick, sprinkle red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños for those who love a little heat in their dishes. Just like in a cozy gathering, it brings warmth to the meal. Sauce Switch-Up: Consider a nutty sage brown butter sauce instead of the creamy sauce for a different yet equally delicious flavor experience. It adds a depth that’s truly comforting! As you can see, the possibilities are endless when it comes to making this creamy pumpkin gnocchi your own. Whether you’re feeling adventurous or sticking to tradition, there’s always room for customization. Enjoy your delicious creation! What to Serve with Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi Looking to enhance your dining experience with warm, cozy flavors? Here are some delightful pairings that perfectly complement your creamy bowl of autumn joy. Crusty Garlic Bread: This warm, buttery bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce and adds a comforting crunch. Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with vinaigrette provides a crisp contrast, balancing the richness of the gnocchi beautifully. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The crispy, caramelized edges of Brussels sprouts bring an earthy note that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the pumpkin. Sautéed Mushrooms: Their umami flavor adds depth to the dish, while their tender texture complements the gnocchi’s creaminess. Nutty Parmesan Crisps: These crunchy bites offer a fun texture variation that enhances the cheesy goodness of your creamy pumpkin gnocchi. Pumpkin Spice Latte: Embrace the fall theme with a warm, spiced drink that beautifully harmonizes with the flavors of your meal. Tiramisu: For dessert, a decadent tiramisu provides a delightful end, balancing the meal’s flavors with its rich coffee and cream layers. How to Store and Freeze Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce if needed. Freezer: For optimal freshness, freeze the sauce separately from the gnocchi. If you choose to freeze the full dish, it’s best consumed within 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Reheating: Always reheat over low heat, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking or burning. Add a bit of reserved pasta water if the sauce thickens too much during reheating. Expert Tips for Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi Consistency Control: Use reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce’s thickness, ensuring it coats the gnocchi perfectly without being too heavy. Taste Test: The sweetness of pumpkin can vary; always taste and adjust salt, pepper, and nutmeg before serving to balance flavors. Avoid Overcooking Gnocchi: Keep an eye on your gnocchi! Once they float to the top, they’re done cooking. Drain them immediately to maintain their perfect texture. Sautéing Order: Always sauté onions first before adding garlic to avoid burning. This preserves the sweet flavor of both ingredients in your creamy pumpkin gnocchi. Fresh is Best: For the richest flavor, opt for fresh spinach; if using frozen, ensure it’s adequately thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture in the sauce. Make Ahead Options These Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Spinach are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the sauce (pumpkin puree, cream, garlic, onion, and spices) up to 3 days in advance; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain its rich flavor. The gnocchi can also be cooked ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours—just toss them in a little olive oil to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to serve, warm the sauce gently in a skillet, add chopped spinach, and then fold in the gnocchi until heated through. This way, you’ll enjoy a comforting, homemade meal with minimal effort on busy weeknights! Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi Recipe FAQs What should I look for when selecting pumpkin puree? Choose pure pumpkin puree without any added sugars or spices, ensuring it’s not pumpkin pie filling. The pumpkin should have a smooth texture with a vibrant orange color, indicating freshness and quality. How should I store leftover creamy pumpkin gnocchi? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens. Can I freeze creamy pumpkin gnocchi? Yes! For best results, freeze the sauce separately from the gnocchi to maintain texture. If freezing the full dish, consume it within 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. What should I do if my sauce is too thick? If your creamy pumpkin gnocchi sauce ends up thicker than you’d like, simply add a little of the reserved pasta water while gently stirring over low heat. This starchy water will help achieve the desired creamy consistency without diluting the flavor. Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe? Absolutely! If you’re looking for dairy-free options, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and replace Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast. Additionally, always check for allergies to specific ingredients like nuts or gluten in store-bought gnocchi. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh? Yes, frozen spinach is a convenient alternative! Just be sure to thaw and drain it well to remove excess moisture before adding it to the sauce. This will help prevent the dish from becoming watery. These FAQs should help guide you as you prepare your delightful creamy pumpkin gnocchi! Enjoy your cooking adventure! Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi: Your Cozy Fall Comfort Food Fix Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi is a delightful autumn dish that combines pumpkin, gnocchi, and spinach for a warm, comforting meal. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 480 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Gnocchi1 pound Gnocchi Opt for store-bought for convenience or whip up homemade gnocchi for a personal touch.For the Sauce1 cup Pumpkin Puree Ensure it's pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, for best flavor.1 cup Heavy Cream Coconut cream makes a great dairy-free substitute if desired.1 cup Parmesan Cheese For a vegan alternative, nutritional yeast works well as a replacement.1/4 teaspoon Nutmeg Freshly grated.Salt and Pepper To taste.For the Aromatics2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can be switched with vegetable oil if you prefer an alternative.3 cloves Garlic Minced.1 medium Onion Diced.For the Greens3 cups Spinach Fresh spinach is best, but thawed frozen spinach works nicely too.Optional for SpiceRed Pepper Flakes Optional; adds a delightful hint of heat. Equipment Large PotLarge skillet Method Step-by-Step InstructionsBegin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the 1 pound of gnocchi and cook according to package instructions—typically around 2-3 minutes—until they float to the surface. Reserve 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water before draining the gnocchi.In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes translucent and fragrant. Incorporate the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.Reduce the heat to low and stir in 1 cup of pumpkin puree, 1 cup of heavy cream, and 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Season with 1/4 teaspoon of freshly grated nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Simmer gently for about 5 minutes until creamy.Add 3 cups of roughly chopped fresh spinach to the simmering sauce, stirring well until it wilts down—this should take about 2-3 minutes.Gently fold the drained gnocchi into the creamy pumpkin sauce, mixing in a bit of reserved pasta water for desired creaminess.Transfer the creamy pumpkin gnocchi to wide bowls. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and optional red pepper flakes before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 480kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 14gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 14gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 4000IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg NotesUse reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce's thickness, ensuring it coats the gnocchi perfectly. Always taste and adjust salt, pepper, and nutmeg before serving. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
