Pumpkin Ricotta Gnocchi

Pumpkin Ricotta Gnocchi is a fall-inspired twist on the classic Italian dish, combining the creamy richness of ricotta cheese with the subtle sweetness of pumpkin. These light, pillowy gnocchi are easy to make and pair beautifully with a simple butter and sage sauce. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or looking for a comforting autumn meal, this recipe brings the flavors of the season to your plate. It’s a perfect way to celebrate fall with a delicious homemade pasta dish that’s full of flavor.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This recipe for Pumpkin Ricotta Gnocchi is both easy to prepare and packed with seasonal flavors. The pumpkin and ricotta create a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture, while the sage butter sauce adds a fragrant and earthy touch. It's a simple yet elegant dish that’s perfect for cozy dinners, and it can be made ahead for convenience. Plus, with just a handful of ingredients, this gnocchi recipe is a great introduction to homemade pasta without the fuss.

The Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 ½ cups flour
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup butter
• 6 sage leaves
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, ricotta cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Stir in the flour, a little at a time, until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overwork the dough; it should be soft but not sticky.
2. Shape the gnocchi: Lightly flour a clean work surface and divide the dough into smaller portions. Roll each portion into a long rope, about ½ inch thick. Cut the rope into 1-inch pieces. For a traditional look, gently roll each piece over the back of a fork to create ridges.
3. Boil the gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully drop the gnocchi into the boiling water and cook until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the gnocchi to a plate.
4. Make the sage butter sauce: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sage leaves and cook until the butter begins to brown and the sage becomes crispy, about 3 minutes.
5. Toss the gnocchi: Add the cooked gnocchi to the sage butter sauce and gently toss to coat. Cook for another 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve: Serve the gnocchi hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a few crispy sage leaves for an elegant touch.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving: Serve this gnocchi immediately for the best texture and flavor. It pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables.
• Storage: Store any leftover gnocchi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, sauté them in a bit of butter or oil to bring back their crisp edges.

Helpful Notes

• If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to add too much, as it can make the gnocchi dense.
• You can make the gnocchi ahead of time by freezing the uncooked pieces on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag and cook directly from frozen when ready to eat.
• For added flavor, sprinkle a little nutmeg into the dough.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can use homemade pumpkin puree, but make sure it’s well-drained to avoid adding too much moisture to the dough.

2. Can I freeze the gnocchi?
Yes! You can freeze the uncooked gnocchi. Just freeze them on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook them straight from frozen.

3. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to adjust the texture of the dough as needed.

4. How do I know when the gnocchi is cooked?
The gnocchi is done when they float to the surface of the boiling water, which typically takes 2-3 minutes.

5. Can I use a different sauce?
Yes! While sage butter sauce is traditional, you can also pair this gnocchi with a tomato sauce or a cream-based sauce for a richer dish.

Final Thoughts

Pumpkin Ricotta Gnocchi is a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for fall. The combination of creamy ricotta, pumpkin, and savory sage butter makes this a satisfying and flavorful meal that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re enjoying it for a cozy weeknight dinner or serving it for a special occasion, this gnocchi recipe is a fantastic way to bring seasonal flavors to your table!