The beauty of this Pumpkin Ricotta Gnocchi lies in its simplicity. It transforms humble ingredients like pumpkin, ricotta, and flour into delicate, golden pillows of joy. Paired with a sage butter sauce that’s crisped to perfection, every bite melts in your mouth and brings cozy fall flavors to life.
This dish is perfect for when you want to impress without the stress. The ricotta base makes the dough forgiving and easy to work with — no kneading or fancy tools required. It’s ideal for a fall dinner party, a casual weekend meal, or any time you crave something comforting yet refined. With its rich color and inviting aroma, it’s bound to become a seasonal favorite.
Full Recipe:
For the Gnocchi:
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1/2 cup pumpkin puree (fresh steamed or canned, moisture reduced)
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1/2 cup full-fat ricotta (soft and spreadable style)
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1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
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1/3 cup finely grated parmesan cheese
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1 egg
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1/4 tsp salt
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Freshly ground black pepper to taste
For the Sage Butter Sauce:
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1 tsp olive oil
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3.5 tbsp (50g) high-quality butter (preferably Lurpak or similar)
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20 fresh sage leaves
To Serve:
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Freshly grated parmesan
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Black pepper
Directions:
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Spread pumpkin puree on layered paper towels in a colander and let it rest for 5 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
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In a large bowl, combine 1/2 cup of the prepared pumpkin puree with ricotta, flour, parmesan, egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix with a wooden spoon to form a soft, slightly sticky dough.
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Turn dough out onto a floured surface, shape into a log, and divide into 6 pieces.
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Roll each piece into a rope about 2/3 inch (1.7 cm) thick. Cut into bite-sized squares. Optionally, press each piece gently with a fork for traditional ridges.
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook gnocchi in batches until they float to the top (about 1 minute). Drain.
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In a large skillet, heat 1 tsp butter and olive oil over medium-high. Add drained gnocchi and pan-fry until lightly golden (about 1.5 minutes).
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Add remaining butter and sage leaves. Sauté for 2.5 minutes until butter browns, sage crisps, and gnocchi is golden all over.
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Plate and garnish with extra parmesan and cracked pepper.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 341 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Pumpkin Ricotta Gnocchi: A Fall Favorite
Pumpkin ricotta gnocchi is a comforting and flavorful twist on the classic gnocchi. This dish is perfect for those cozy autumn nights when you’re looking for something warm and hearty to enjoy. The blend of mashed pumpkin and ricotta creates a soft, pillowy texture that is complemented perfectly by the richness of sage butter sauce. This homemade version is much simpler than the traditional potato gnocchi, and it brings the vibrant, sweet flavor of pumpkin to the forefront. Whether you’re making it for a special dinner or simply craving a seasonal dish, pumpkin ricotta gnocchi is sure to impress.
The Origins of Gnocchi
Gnocchi, a beloved Italian dish, dates back centuries and is known for its simplicity and versatility. Traditionally, gnocchi was made with potatoes, flour, eggs, and sometimes cheese. Over time, this basic recipe evolved to incorporate different ingredients, such as pumpkin, spinach, and even beets, depending on regional preferences and seasonal availability. Pumpkin gnocchi is particularly popular in the fall when pumpkin is in season, offering a sweet, earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with savory sauces like sage butter.
The use of ricotta in gnocchi is a departure from the traditional potato-based recipe. Ricotta adds a rich creaminess to the dough, resulting in a softer, more delicate texture. This version of gnocchi is easier to make and requires less effort than the classic potato gnocchi, making it a great option for home cooks of all skill levels.
Why Choose Pumpkin Ricotta Gnocchi?
Pumpkin ricotta gnocchi stands out for its ability to blend rich flavors with a light, fluffy texture. The sweetness of the pumpkin helps balance the savory flavors in the gnocchi and complements the richness of the sage butter sauce. The addition of ricotta further softens the dough and provides a creamy mouthfeel that makes every bite feel indulgent without being too heavy.
Another reason to try this dish is its versatility. While the pumpkin gnocchi itself is delicious on its own, it can also be paired with a wide variety of sauces and toppings. You can opt for a simple butter sauce, like the classic sage butter, or get creative with browned butter, garlic, or even a tomato-based sauce. Pumpkin gnocchi can also be topped with a sprinkle of parmesan or a handful of fresh herbs for extra flavor.
Health Benefits of Pumpkin Ricotta Gnocchi
Pumpkin is a nutritional powerhouse that offers numerous health benefits. It’s packed with vitamin A, which is essential for healthy vision and immune function. Pumpkin is also a great source of fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes a healthy gut. Additionally, pumpkin is rich in antioxidants like beta-carotene, which helps protect the body from free radicals and supports skin health.
Ricotta cheese, while creamy and rich, is lower in fat than many other cheeses, making it a lighter option for adding flavor to the gnocchi. It’s also a good source of protein and calcium, which are essential for maintaining strong bones and muscles. Together, pumpkin and ricotta create a dish that’s not only satisfying but also beneficial for your health.
Tips for Perfecting Your Pumpkin Ricotta Gnocchi
Making gnocchi at home is easier than it may seem, especially with this pumpkin ricotta variation. However, there are a few tips to ensure that your gnocchi turns out perfectly every time:
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Use Fresh Pumpkin: If possible, use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree for the best flavor. Steam or boil the pumpkin, and make sure to let it dry on paper towels to remove excess moisture. This will help ensure that the gnocchi dough is soft but not too sticky.
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Don’t Overwork the Dough: When mixing the dough, be gentle. Overworking the dough can make the gnocchi dense and heavy. It should remain soft and slightly sticky, so you may need to add just a little extra flour if it’s too wet.
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Fork Technique: To give your gnocchi the traditional ridged appearance, gently press each piece with the back of a fork after cutting. This not only adds texture but also helps the sauce adhere better to the gnocchi.
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Cook in Batches: When cooking the gnocchi, avoid overcrowding the pot. Cooking the gnocchi in batches ensures that each piece has enough room to float to the top, indicating that it’s fully cooked.
Serving Suggestions for Pumpkin Ricotta Gnocchi
Pumpkin ricotta gnocchi is perfect for a variety of occasions. It makes a comforting weeknight meal, a festive dish for Thanksgiving, or a delicious starter for a dinner party. The gnocchi pairs wonderfully with sage butter sauce, but it can also be served with a variety of toppings:
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Sage Butter Sauce: The classic choice, sage butter sauce adds a savory depth to the dish. Brown the butter and fry the sage leaves to infuse the butter with flavor.
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Parmesan and Fresh Herbs: A simple sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan and a handful of chopped herbs like basil, thyme, or parsley can elevate the dish and add brightness.
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Pine Nuts: For a crunchy texture, toasted pine nuts are a wonderful addition. They pair beautifully with the richness of the gnocchi and butter sauce.
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Roasted Vegetables: Serve the gnocchi with a side of roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, butternut squash, or carrots for a well-rounded meal that celebrates the flavors of fall.
Freezing Pumpkin Ricotta Gnocchi
If you’re making the gnocchi in advance, it’s easy to freeze for later use. Simply prepare the gnocchi as directed, then place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until firm, then transfer them to an airtight container or ziplock bag. When you’re ready to cook, you can drop the frozen gnocchi directly into boiling water. They will cook in just a minute or two, making them a convenient option for busy days.
Conclusion
Pumpkin ricotta gnocchi is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to any meal. With its light, pillowy texture and rich, savory sage butter sauce, it’s the perfect fall recipe to enjoy with family and friends. Whether you’re an experienced home cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this gnocchi is easy to make and versatile enough to pair with a variety of sauces and toppings. Not only does it taste incredible, but it’s also packed with nutrients from the pumpkin, making it a dish you can feel good about enjoying. So why not add pumpkin ricotta gnocchi to your fall recipe repertoire? You’ll love every bite!