If you are craving something that tastes like the warm embrace of autumn in every bite, you will adore this Creamy Pumpkin Sage Gnocchi Recipe. It brings together pillowy gnocchi tossed in a luscious, velvety pumpkin sauce brightened with fragrant sage. This dish is not only quick and easy to prepare, but it also bursts with comforting flavors that make it feel like a special treat with each forkful. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with friends, this recipe captures the very essence of cozy seasonal cooking in a bowl.

A black bowl filled with small, soft gnocchi covered in a thick, bright orange creamy sauce. The gnocchi pieces are plump, smooth, and slightly ridged, sitting close together in the rich sauce that pools around their base. Dark green whole sage leaves are scattered on top, adding a fresh contrast to the orange sauce. A silver spoon with a textured handle is resting inside the bowl on the left side. The bowl is placed on a dark wooden surface with a folded beige cloth nearby and a clear glass of water visible at the top right. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Creamy Pumpkin Sage Gnocchi Recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a key role, whether adding creamy texture, vibrant color, or rich flavor. These basics make assembling your dish a breeze, even on busy days.

16 oz gnocchi: Choose store-bought for convenience or homemade for that extra tender, rustic touch.
2 tbsp olive oil: Provides a smooth base for sautéing vegetables and infusing the sauce with subtle richness.
1/2 yellow onion, chopped: Offers a sweet and savory foundation when caramelized gently.
1 small red bell pepper, chopped: Adds a pop of color and slight sweetness to the dish.
2 garlic cloves, minced: Brings a warm, aromatic depth to the sauce.
1 cup pumpkin purée: The star of the show, lending creamy texture and earthy autumn flavor.
1/2 cup unsweetened coconut cream: Gives luscious creaminess while keeping the recipe vegan-friendly.
1 tbsp white miso paste: Adds umami complexity and subtle saltiness that balances the pumpkin’s sweetness.
1 tsp maple syrup: A touch of natural sweetness to round out the sauce beautifully.
2 tsp balsamic vinegar: Provides a tangy brightness that lifts the flavors perfectly.
2 tbsp sage, chopped (and fried for serving): Infuses every bite with herbaceous earthiness and a delightful crispy garnish.

How to Make Creamy Pumpkin Sage Gnocchi Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Your Vegetables

Begin by warming olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers beautifully. Toss in your chopped onion and let it cook gently until it turns translucent and sweetly fragrant—about 5 to 8 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic and the chopped red bell pepper. Cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes until the bell pepper softens just right. This step builds the aromatic foundation that makes your sauce sing.

Step 2: Blend the Pumpkin Sauce

Transfer your softened vegetables into a high-speed blender. Add the pumpkin purée, unsweetened coconut cream, white miso paste, and a touch of maple syrup. Blend everything until you get a smooth, creamy sauce that tastes like fall in a bowl. Pour this luscious mixture back into the skillet to keep it warm and ready for the gnocchi.

Step 3: Cook the Gnocchi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. For store-bought gnocchi, follow the package instructions, usually just a few minutes until they float to the top. If you’re going homemade, cook them for 2 to 3 minutes or until they rise to the surface. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked gnocchi directly into your sauce skillet, reserving some cooking water.

Step 4: Combine Gnocchi and Sauce

Gently warm the gnocchi in the pumpkin sauce, stirring carefully so you don’t break the tender pillows. If the sauce feels too thick, add up to one cup of the reserved cooking water until you reach the perfect creamy consistency. Stir in the chopped fresh sage and balsamic vinegar, letting those flavors mingle just before removing the skillet from the heat.

Step 5: Fry the Sage for Garnish

For an irresistible finishing touch, heat about half an inch of neutral oil in a small pan over medium-low heat. When shimmering, add fresh sage leaves in a single layer. Fry for just 30 seconds—watch carefully as they crisp up quickly. Remove them with a fork or slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. This crunchy sage garnish elevates the Creamy Pumpkin Sage Gnocchi Recipe with a herbal crunch that’s simply addictive.

How to Serve Creamy Pumpkin Sage Gnocchi Recipe

Creamy Pumpkin Sage Gnocchi Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Sprinkle the crispy fried sage leaves over each serving for a stunning visual and textural contrast. A little cracked black pepper or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can also add more layers of flavor. These simple touches make the dish feel restaurant-worthy at your own table.

Side Dishes

This dish shines best alongside light, fresh sides that won’t overpower it. Consider a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or roasted root vegetables dusted with fresh herbs. These accompaniments bring brightness and crunch that balance the gnocchi’s creamy warmth.

Creative Ways to Present

For a cozy dinner party, serve the gnocchi in individual wide bowls, each garnished with a sage leaf and a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds. Alternatively, plate it family-style on a large platter with fresh sage scattered across the top, inviting everyone to dig in and savor the comforting flavors together.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Creamy Pumpkin Sage Gnocchi Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 2 days, allowing the flavors to mellow even more. Just be sure to cool it fully before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezing

This recipe freezes surprisingly well. Place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper if needed. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight for best results.

Reheating

Reheat your dish gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or almond milk to loosen the sauce as needed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to warm the gnocchi evenly without losing their tender texture. Microwave reheating is possible but less ideal for preserving the creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I make this Creamy Pumpkin Sage Gnocchi Recipe gluten free?

Absolutely! Just choose gluten-free gnocchi, which are widely available in many stores, or make your own from gluten-free flour options to keep it safe and delicious.

Is the pumpkin sauce vegan?

Yes! This recipe uses coconut cream rather than dairy and omits butter and cheese, making it completely vegan without sacrificing any flavor or creaminess.

What if I can’t find white miso paste?

If white miso paste isn’t on hand, you can substitute with light soy sauce or tamari for a similar umami oomph, though the flavor will be a little different.

Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of purée?

It’s best to use plain pumpkin purée rather than pie filling, which contains added spices and sugars that may alter the flavor balance of this savory dish.

How do I make homemade gnocchi for this recipe?

Homemade gnocchi involves mixing cooked mashed potatoes with flour and a pinch of salt, forming small dumplings, and boiling until they float. They add an extra-special touch but store-bought works perfectly well for quick meals.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Pumpkin Sage Gnocchi Recipe is a guaranteed winner for anyone looking to capture the essence of fall in a simple, delicious meal. Its comforting creaminess paired with the earthy sage and sweet pumpkin is like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Give this gem a try soon—you might find it becoming your new seasonal favorite that you crave year after year.

Creamy Pumpkin Sage Gnocchi Recipe