Pumpkin Gnocchi with Sage Butter

Soft and pillowy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Sage Butter is the perfect dish for fall gatherings and cozy dinners. This comforting pasta, enriched with pumpkin puree, is enhanced by the nutty flavors of sage butter, making it a delightful addition to any meal. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet night in, this recipe will impress with its unique flavors and ease of preparation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish in no time.
• Comforting Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and sage creates a warm, inviting taste that embodies the essence of fall.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or side dish; it pairs wonderfully with various proteins or can stand alone.
• Homemade Goodness: Make your own gnocchi for an authentic touch that elevates your cooking skills.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a special celebration, this dish fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your kitchen essentials. Having the right tools will make your experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Rolling pin
• Knife or pastry cutter
• Pot for boiling water
• Skillet

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining all ingredients into a smooth dough.
• Rolling pin: Helps shape the gnocchi evenly, ensuring they cook uniformly.
• Pot for boiling water: Necessary for cooking the gnocchi until they float, indicating they’re ready to serve.

Ingredients

To create your delicious Pumpkin Gnocchi with Sage Butter, gather the following ingredients:

For the Gnocchi

• 1 cup pumpkin purée
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
• 1 egg

For the Sage Butter Sauce

• 4 tbsp butter
• 6 sage leaves
• Salt and pepper, to taste

How to Make Pumpkin Gnocchi with Sage Butter

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a bowl, combine pumpkin purée, ricotta cheese, egg, and flour. Mix until you form a soft dough.

Step 2: Shape the Gnocchi

On a floured surface, roll the dough into ropes. Cut these ropes into small pieces to form your gnocchi.

Step 3: Cook the Gnocchi

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully add the gnocchi. They are done when they float to the surface (about 2–3 minutes).

Step 4: Make the Sage Butter Sauce

In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add sage leaves, cooking until fragrant and golden brown.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Toss the drained gnocchi in sage butter. Season with salt and pepper before serving hot.

Enjoy your delightful Pumpkin Gnocchi with Sage Butter as a comforting meal that captures the flavors of autumn!

How to Serve Pumpkin Gnocchi with Sage Butter

Serving Pumpkin Gnocchi with Sage Butter can elevate your dining experience. This dish pairs well with various accompaniments and garnishes that enhance its flavors and presentation.

Garnish with Cheese

• Parmesan or Pecorino: Grate some aged cheese over the top for a salty, nutty finish.
• Toasted Pine Nuts: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts for added crunch and richness.

Accompany with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a refreshing taste.
• Extra Sage Leaves: For the sage lovers, crisp up additional sage leaves in butter for a beautiful garnish.

Serve with a Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the gnocchi.
• Arugula Salad: The peppery flavor of arugula complements the sweetness of pumpkin.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Gnocchi with Sage Butter

Perfecting your Pumpkin Gnocchi with Sage Butter involves attention to detail and proper technique. Follow these tips to ensure delightful results every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh pumpkin purée and ricotta for the best flavor.
• Don’t Overwork the Dough: Mix just until combined to keep your gnocchi soft and tender.
• Test Cooking Time: Cook one gnocchi first to check if it floats before cooking the rest.
• Adjust Flour as Needed: Depending on moisture content, you may need more flour; add it gradually.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Gnocchi with Sage Butter

Pairing side dishes with your Pumpkin Gnocchi can enhance the meal’s overall experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up leftover sage butter sauce.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots add color and nutrition.
3. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad provides a crunchy contrast to the soft gnocchi.
4. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus offers a fresh, vibrant side dish.
5. Butternut Squash Soup: A creamy soup complements the pumpkin flavor beautifully on a chilly day.
6. Caprese Salad: Juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and basil create a refreshing side that balances richness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making homemade Pumpkin Gnocchi with Sage Butter can be a delightful experience, but there are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Overworking the dough – Kneading the dough too much can lead to tough gnocchi. Handle it gently until just combined.
• Using too much flour – Adding excess flour can make your gnocchi dense. Start with less and only add more if necessary for rolling.
• Not cooking in batches – Cooking all the gnocchi at once can cool the water down and affect cooking time. Cook in smaller batches for best results.
• Skipping salt in cooking water – Not salting the water means bland gnocchi. Always add a generous amount of salt to enhance flavor.
• Forgetting to toss with sage butter immediately – Letting the gnocchi sit after boiling can cause them to stick together. Toss them in sage butter right away for a perfect finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover pumpkin gnocchi in an airtight container.
• They will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Pumpkin Gnocchi with Sage Butter

• Place uncooked gnocchi on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until firm.
• Transfer the frozen gnocchi to a freezer-safe bag or container; they can last up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Gnocchi with Sage Butter

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread gnocchi on a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave – Place gnocchi in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop – Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a little sage butter, then toss in the gnocchi until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Pumpkin Gnocchi with Sage Butter.

Can I make Pumpkin Gnocchi without egg?

Yes, you can substitute the egg with additional ricotta cheese or use a flaxseed mixture (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water) as a binding agent.

How do I know when my gnocchi are done?

Gnocchi are ready when they float to the surface of boiling water. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes.

What variations can I try with Pumpkin Gnocchi with Sage Butter?

Feel free to customize by adding different herbs like thyme or rosemary, or incorporating vegetables like spinach into the mix!

Can I prepare Pumpkin Gnocchi ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the dough and shape it into gnocchi ahead of time, then refrigerate or freeze until you’re ready to cook.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Gnocchi with Sage Butter is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs. It’s perfect for cozy fall dinners or any occasion that calls for delicious homemade pasta. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delightful flavors!