As the vibrant hues of autumn begin to blanket the landscape, I find myself craving comforting meals that warm both the heart and soul. Last weekend, as I stirred a bubbling pot of salted water, the anticipation of creating something special filled the air. That’s when I decided to whip up a batch of pumpkin gnocchi—the soft, pillowy bites are the perfect homage to the season.
Quickly sautéed in nutty brown butter and sprinkled with crispy sage, this dish transformed my kitchen into a haven of rich, autumnal aromas. In under 20 minutes, I was able to serve a comforting meal that felt indulgent yet remains surprisingly easy to prepare. Whether you’re entertaining friends or simply treating yourself after a long day, this Pumpkin Gnocchi with Brown Butter and Sage is surely going to become a go-to recipe. Ready to savor the flavors of fall? Let’s dive in!
Why will you love Pumpkin Gnocchi Brown Butter Sage?
Comforting, Cozy Meal: Perfect for chilly evenings, this dish embodies the warm essence of autumn with every bite.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes, it’s the ideal solution for busy weeknights.
Versatile Substitutions: Easily swap pumpkin for sweet potato gnocchi for a different twist or make it dairy-free!
Flavor Explosion: The nutty brown butter pairs perfectly with the crispy sage and creamy texture for a truly satisfying experience.
Crowd-Pleasing Dish: This recipe impresses guests while remaining simple enough for any home cook to master.
Pumpkin Gnocchi Brown Butter Sage Ingredients
For the Gnocchi
- Pumpkin Gnocchi – Base ingredient offering delightful sweetness and texture; you can also use sweet potato gnocchi for a different taste.
For the Brown Butter Sauce
- Unsalted Butter – Essential for creating the rich and nutty brown butter sauce; substitute with margarine or a vegan alternative for a dairy-free version.
- Fresh Sage Leaves – Enhances flavor with their aromatic qualities and crispy texture when cooked; dried sage can be used as a faster alternative but in smaller amounts.
For Serving
- Parmesan Cheese – Adds savory umami and helps the sauce adhere perfectly; nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free substitute if desired.
- Sea Salt – Elevates the overall flavor of the dish; adjust according to your taste preferences.
- Black Pepper – Infuses mild heat; freshly ground black pepper is recommended for the best flavor.
Now you’re ready to bring the cozy spirit of autumn into your kitchen with this delightful Pumpkin Gnocchi Brown Butter Sage dish!
How to Make Pumpkin Gnocchi Brown Butter Sage
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Boil Gnocchi: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, gently add the pumpkin gnocchi and cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until they rise to the surface. Drain and set aside.
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Prepare Brown Butter: In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Watch closely as the butter begins to bubble; stir in the fresh sage leaves and cook for 3-5 minutes until the butter turns a lovely golden brown and the sage crisps up beautifully.
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Combine Gnocchi and Sauce: Carefully add the drained gnocchi to the skillet, tossing gently to coat each piece in the luscious brown butter. Allow the gnocchi to toast lightly for an additional 1-2 minutes, which will enhance their texture.
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Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and fold in the shredded Parmesan cheese, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Serve immediately, garnishing with extra Parmesan if desired, for an added touch of deliciousness.
Optional: Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a pop of brightness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Pumpkin Gnocchi Brown Butter Sage
- Drain Well: Ensure gnocchi is well-drained after cooking to avoid a soggy sauce. Squeeze out excess moisture for perfect texture.
- Watch the Butter: Pay attention while browning the butter; it can burn quickly. Take it off the heat as soon as it’s a golden brown color.
- Crispy Sage: Fry fresh sage leaves until crispy to elevate the dish’s flavor; don’t skimp on this step for a fragrant experience.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed right away; reheating can affect the gnocchi’s texture, so aim to serve warm.
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with different herbs if sage isn’t available; thyme works beautifully as a flavorful alternative in Pumpkin Gnocchi Brown Butter Sage.
Pumpkin Gnocchi Variations
The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility, inviting you to explore flavors that satisfy your cravings.
- Sweet Potato Gnocchi: Swap pumpkin gnocchi for sweet potato for a sweeter, earthy flavor profile that’s equally delightful.
- Dairy-Free Delight: Use margarine or coconut oil in place of butter for a creamy, rich experience without dairy.
- Herb Alternatives: If fresh sage isn’t available, thyme or rosemary can offer a fragrant twist to your brown butter sauce.
- Nutty Crunch: Toss in toasted walnuts or pine nuts for a delightful crunch that contrasts with the soft gnocchi.
- Protein Boost: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or browned Italian sausage for an extra layer of flavor and heartiness.
- Zesty Brightness: A squeeze of lemon juice right before serving can elevate the dish with a fresh zing that ties the flavors together beautifully.
- Spicy Kick: For those who love a bit of heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes as you toss the gnocchi for a warming spice.
- Cheesy Goodness: Experiment with different cheeses such as feta or goat cheese for an unexpected tang that complements the sweetness of the gnocchi.
Make Ahead Options
These Pumpkin Gnocchi with Brown Butter and Sage are perfect for busy weeknights and can be prepped in advance to save time! You can make the gnocchi up to 3 days ahead and refrigerate them in an airtight container. Additionally, prepare the brown butter sauce without the sage, storing it in a separate container; it will stay fresh for up to 2 days in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce gently and add fresh sage in the last minute of cooking for that delightful crispiness. This way, you’ll have a delicious, restaurant-quality dish ready to go, allowing you to enjoy the rich flavors of fall with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Gnocchi Brown Butter Sage
- Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently over low heat with a splash of water to maintain the sauce’s consistency.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked gnocchi in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag for up to 1 month.
- Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat frozen gnocchi directly from the freezer in a skillet over medium heat, adding a bit of water or broth, which helps bring back the creaminess of the sauce.
- Prepare Fresh: For the best flavor and texture, consider making Pumpkin Gnocchi Brown Butter Sage fresh, as this dish is truly at its peak right out of the skillet.
What to Serve with Pumpkin Gnocchi Brown Butter Sage?
As you indulge in the warm, nutty flavors of this delightful dish, consider these pairings to create a complete and comforting meal.
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Simple Green Salad: A refreshing side that adds a crunchy texture and balances the richness of the gnocchi. Toss with a light vinaigrette for a zingy finish.
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Roasted Chicken: Juicy, tender chicken complements the earthy flavors, adding protein and heartiness, making the meal feel more substantial.
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Parmesan Crisps: These crunchy bites offer a delightful contrast and enhance the savory notes of the dish, providing an extra layer of texture.
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Sautéed Spinach: Lightly garlic-sautéed spinach adds a vibrant touch and plenty of nutrients, brightening your plate with its rich green hues.
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Toasted Nuts: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or walnuts atop the gnocchi for an unexpected crunch and a nutty flavor that melds beautifully with brown butter.
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Apple Cider Spritz: A crisp, light drink that mirrors the fall flavors in the dish, offering a sweet and tart contrast to the savory elements.
Embrace the essence of autumn by pairing these delightful options with your pumpkin gnocchi to create a truly satisfying dining experience!
Pumpkin Gnocchi Brown Butter Sage Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best pumpkin gnocchi?
Absolutely! Look for gnocchi that is firm and free of dark spots or blemishes. If you can’t find pumpkin gnocchi, sweet potato gnocchi is a great alternative, offering a similar texture and a subtly sweet flavor.
How should I store leftovers of Pumpkin Gnocchi Brown Butter Sage?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Be sure to reheat gently over low heat with a splash of water to restore the sauce’s creamy texture. This way, you can enjoy the delightful flavors all over again!
Can I freeze Pumpkin Gnocchi Brown Butter Sage?
Yes, you can! For freezing, first, lay the cooked gnocchi in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Once frozen, transfer the gnocchi to a freezer bag and store them for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat directly from the freezer in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little water or broth to help reincorporate the sauce.
What if my brown butter burns while cooking?
Very! If your brown butter starts to burn, immediately remove it from the heat. A burnt flavor can be quite overpowering, so it’s best to start over with fresh butter to achieve that wonderful nutty aroma without the bitterness.
Is this recipe suitable for those with dairy allergies?
Yes, it can be! Simply substitute the unsalted butter with margarine or a vegan alternative. For the Parmesan, you can replace it with nutritional yeast to maintain that delightful umami flavor without dairy. It’s a wonderful way to share comfort food with friends and family who have dietary restrictions!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the gnocchi ahead of time and store it separately. To do this, cook the gnocchi, let them cool, and then place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, just follow the steps for the brown butter sauce and toss them together, just remember not to wait too long to eat them for the best taste!
Pumpkin Gnocchi Brown Butter Sage: A Cozy Fall Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pumpkin gnocchi and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they rise to the surface. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir in the fresh sage leaves and cook for 3-5 minutes until the butter turns golden brown and the sage crisps up.
- Carefully add the drained gnocchi to the skillet, tossing gently to coat each piece in the brown butter. Allow to toast for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Remove from heat and fold in the shredded Parmesan cheese, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Serve immediately, garnishing with extra Parmesan if desired.
