Name: Homemade Pumpkin and Kale Gnocchi in Creamy Sage Bliss
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 12 oz fresh potato gnocchi; 2 tbsp plant-based butter (Adds richness and a buttery flavor to the sauce.); 2 cloves garlic, finely minced (Provides aromatic depth.); 1 small shallot, diced (Enhances sweetness and flavor of the sauce.); 1 cup pureed pumpkin (Canned pumpkin can be used for convenience.); 1 cup oat milk or soy milk (Creates creaminess in the sauce; adjust with more if needed.); 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (Provides warm spice notes.); 1/2 tsp cinnamon (Adds a touch of sweetness and warmth.); 1 tbsp lemon juice (Balances the sweetness; adjust to taste.); 1 tbsp maple syrup or packed brown sugar (Sweetens the sauce; optional based on sweetness preference.); 1 tbsp fresh sage, minced (Infuses a fragrant herbal note into the dish.); Salt (Essential for seasoning.); Pepper (Essential for seasoning.); 2 cups kale leaves, roughly chopped (Introduces greens for nutrition and a pop of color.); 4 tbsp dairy-free butter (For the sage butter topping; enhances flavor.); 1 tbsp fresh sage, chopped (For frying; heightens aroma and flavor.); Vegan parmesan (For garnish; complements the dish and adds a delightful cheesiness.); Fresh cracked black pepper (Enhances final seasoning.)

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As the summer sun fades and the crispness of fall takes over, I find myself craving dishes that embody all the cozy flavors of the season. Enter my homemade pumpkin and kale gnocchi—a dish that wraps up warmth and comfort into each delightful bite. Imagine the satisfying crunch of crispy gnocchi giving way to soft, pillowy centers, all enveloped in a creamy sage butter sauce that’s bursting with the richness of roasted pumpkin and earthy kale.

I stumbled upon this recipe one late afternoon when I was seeking out a quick yet impressive meal for my family. With just 30 minutes on the clock, I knew I had struck gold: a vibrant, nourishing dish that feels special enough for a gathering but is effortless enough for a weeknight dinner. Perfect for those times when you want something hearty without the fuss of elaborate cooking! Let’s bring the magic of homemade comfort food to your table with this easy and family-friendly recipe that will surely become a fall favorite.

Why Choose Homemade Pumpkin and Kale Gnocchi?

Comforting warmth: This dish wraps you in cozy autumn flavors with every bite, perfect for those cool evenings.
Quick and easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, it fits seamlessly into your busy weeknight routine.
Flavorful indulgence: The creamy sage butter sauce elevates this dish, balancing the sweetness of pumpkin with savory garlic and earthy kale.
Family-friendly: Even picky eaters will love the inviting colors and textures, making mealtime a breeze.
Versatile options: Add protein, mix in your favorite veggies, or serve alongside crusty bread for a complete meal!

Homemade Pumpkin and Kale Gnocchi Ingredients

For the Gnocchi

12 oz fresh potato gnocchi – The main component providing a soft, pillowy texture. Substitution: Shelf-stable gnocchi can be used but may require longer cooking time; avoid frozen varieties for best results.

For the Sauce

2 tbsp plant-based butter – Adds richness and a buttery flavor to the sauce.
2 cloves garlic, finely minced – Provides aromatic depth.
1 small shallot, diced – Enhances sweetness and flavor of the sauce.
1 cup pureed pumpkin – Adds creaminess and a subtle sweetness. You can use canned pumpkin for convenience.
1 cup oat milk or soy milk – Creates creaminess in the sauce; adjust with more if needed.
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg – Provides warm spice notes.
1/2 tsp cinnamon – Adds a touch of sweetness and warmth.
1 tbsp lemon juice – Balances the sweetness; adjust to taste.
1 tbsp maple syrup or packed brown sugar – Sweetens the sauce; optional based on sweetness preference.
1 tbsp fresh sage, minced – Infuses a fragrant herbal note into the dish.
Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning.

For the Greens

2 cups kale leaves, roughly chopped – Introduces greens for nutrition and a pop of color.

For the Topping

4 tbsp dairy-free butter – For the sage butter topping; enhances flavor.
1 tbsp fresh sage, chopped – For frying; heightens aroma and flavor.
Vegan parmesan, for garnish – Complements the dish and adds a delightful cheesiness.
Fresh cracked black pepper – Enhances final seasoning.

How to Make Homemade Pumpkin and Kale Gnocchi

Melt Butter: In a large skillet, warm the plant-based butter over medium heat, allowing it to melt smoothly. Add the finely minced garlic and diced shallot, then sauté for about 3 minutes until they’re browned and fragrant.
Combine Ingredients: Gently stir in the pureed pumpkin, oat milk, lemon juice, nutmeg, cinnamon, and maple syrup or brown sugar. Simmer this mixture gently for a few minutes to marry all the delightful flavors together.
Cook Gnocchi: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions, usually for about 2-3 minutes until they float to the top. Drain and then introduce them to the simmering pumpkin sauce.
Mix Together: Stir the gnocchi into the luscious sauce, reducing the heat to low. If the sauce appears too thick, adjust it with a little more oat milk to achieve your desired creaminess.
Add Kale: Steam the kale in a basket over boiling water for about 1 minute until it becomes vibrant. Combine the steamed kale with the gnocchi and sauce, then season everything to taste with salt and pepper.
Prepare Sage Butter: In a small pan, melt the dairy-free butter and add chopped fresh sage. Fry it for around 2 minutes until fragrant, then drizzle this delightful sage butter over the plated gnocchi.
Serve Warm: Garnish the dish with vegan parmesan and fresh cracked black pepper before serving to elevate your comforting meal!

Optional: Serve with a side salad dressed in olive oil and lemon for a refreshing balance.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Storage Tips for Homemade Pumpkin and Kale Gnocchi

Fridge: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of oat milk to restore the creamy consistency of the sauce.

Freezer: To preserve the vibrant flavors, freeze the pumpkin sauce separately for up to 2 months. Avoid freezing the complete dish, as this can alter the texture of the gnocchi.

Reheating: For best results, reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently. This helps keep the gnocchi tender while ensuring the sauce warms evenly.

Variations & Substitutions for Homemade Pumpkin and Kale Gnocchi

Feel free to let your culinary creativity shine by customizing this delicious recipe to your taste preferences!

Gluten-Free: Substitute gnocchi with gluten-free options made from rice or corn flour for a satisfying twist.
Cream Cheese Boost: Add 2 tablespoons of vegan cream cheese to the sauce for extra richness and creaminess. It creates an indulgent touch that’s hard to resist!
Spicy Kick: For those who love a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes while sautéing garlic to add a fiery flair that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the pumpkin.
Nutty Flavor: Incorporate toasted pine nuts or walnuts into the dish for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. They’ll provide a lovely texture that enhances this comforting meal.
Vegetable Medley: Mix in roasted veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for extra color and nutrients. Their sweetness complements the dish and adds a delightful variety.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with other fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary instead of sage for a different aromatic experience. Each herb brings its own personality to the dish!
Lemon Zest: Grate the zest of a lemon into the sauce for a bright burst of freshness. It beautifully balances the richness, making each bite even more irresistible.
Extra Protein: Toss in some sautéed mushrooms or plant-based sausage to amp up the protein content and make this dish even heartier. They add a savory depth that pairs wonderfully with the sauce.

Embrace the flavors and get creative! This homemade pumpkin and kale gnocchi is open to delightful modifications that cater to your family’s palate.

Make Ahead Options

These Homemade Pumpkin and Kale Gnocchi are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the creamy pumpkin sauce and chop the kale up to 3 days in advance, then store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness and flavor. To finish the dish, simply cook the gnocchi (approximately 2-3 minutes), heat the sauce on the stove, and combine them just before serving. This way, you’ll have a delicious and comforting meal ready in no time during your busy weeknights. Just remember, adding a splash of oat milk while reheating can help restore the sauce’s creamy consistency!

Expert Tips for Homemade Pumpkin and Kale Gnocchi

Perfectly Cooked Gnocchi: Ensure gnocchi is cooked just until they float in the water, around 2-3 minutes. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture.
Flavor Balance: Adjust the amount of lemon juice to balance the sweetness of your sauce. A little salt can also help avoid a flat flavor profile in your homemade pumpkin and kale gnocchi.
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh herbs whenever possible, especially the sage, as it heightens the aroma and flavor of your dish. Dried herbs do not provide the same vibrant notes.
Avoid Clumps: Gradually stir in oat milk into the sauce while maintaining a gentle heat to achieve a creamy consistency. This prevents any clumping that could occur with sudden temperature changes.
Late Kale Addition: Introduce the kale to the dish towards the end of cooking. This ensures it maintains its vibrant color and crispness, enhancing both the look and texture of your meal.

What to Serve with Homemade Pumpkin and Kale Gnocchi?

Create a memorable dining experience that highlights the warmth and comfort of this delightful dish.

Garlic Bread: This is a classic pairing that pairs perfectly, offering a crunchy texture to dip into the creamy sauce. The aromatic garlic brings an extra layer of flavor to your meal.
Simple Arugula Salad: A light salad dressed with olive oil and lemon adds a fresh, peppery bite that balances the richness of the gnocchi. This vibrant dish brightens the plate and palate alike.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their caramelized edges offer a lovely contrast of textures and earthy flavors that enhance the dish’s overall comfort. Mellowing the slight bitterness adds depth to your meal.
Savory Pumpkin Soup: A warm bowl of pumpkin soup can echo the flavors of the gnocchi, creating a hearty, comforting pairing. Serve it alongside for a more intimate fall-themed meal.
Chardonnay: A chilled glass of this white wine provides refreshing acidity and complements the creamy pumpkin sauce beautifully, making for a delightful sip between bites.
Vegan Parmesan: Sprinkle extra vegan parmesan on top of the dish to enhance its cheesiness, giving it that gourmet touch that everyone will love. Each bite will feel luxurious and satisfying.
Apple Crisp: End the meal on a sweet note with warm apple crisp, bringing in the flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg. The tartness of apples contrasts the rich gnocchi, creating a perfect finale.

Homemade Pumpkin and Kale Gnocchi Recipe FAQs

What kind of gnocchi should I use for this recipe?
I recommend using fresh potato gnocchi for the best texture—it’s light and fluffy! If you can’t find fresh, you can use shelf-stable gnocchi, but be aware that they might require a longer cooking time. Avoid frozen gnocchi, as they can become mushy when cooked.

How should I store leftover gnocchi?
To keep your homemade pumpkin and kale gnocchi fresh, place it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will last for up to 3 days. When it’s time to reheat, simply add a splash of oat milk to return the creamy consistency of the sauce, warming it gently on the stove.

Can I freeze pumpkin sauce for future use?
Absolutely! You can freeze the pumpkin sauce separately for up to 2 months. Just be sure to transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag after it’s cooled. Avoid freezing the complete dish with gnocchi to maintain the ideal texture—frozen gnocchi do not thaw well.

What if my sauce turns out too thick?
No worries! If your sauce is thicker than you’d like, simply add a bit more oat milk a tablespoon at a time until it reaches your desired consistency. Make sure to keep the heat low when stirring it in to ensure a smooth mixture without clumps!

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! This dish is vegetarian and vegan-friendly, thanks to the use of plant-based ingredients like butter and parmesan. If you have specific allergies, take care to check your sauces for any hidden dairy or gluten—most oat and soy milks are safe, but it’s always best to double-check.

Can I add protein to make it more filling?
Very! You can mix in some white beans or chickpeas for a plant-based protein source, or serve the gnocchi alongside roasted chicken or turkey for those who enjoy meat. This will enhance the dish and make it even more satisfying!