There’s something magical about the aroma of Pumpkin Gnocchi with Brown Butter wafting through the kitchen. The rich, nutty scent of browned butter mingles with the sweet earthiness of pumpkin, creating a fragrant hug for your senses. Picture this: each soft, pillowy gnocchi dances on your tongue, perfectly coated in that golden sauce, making you wonder why you ever settled for boring pasta. For more inspiration, check out this Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes recipe.

Now, let me take you back to a chilly autumn evening when I first tasted this heavenly dish. My friend invited me over for dinner, and I was instantly smitten. We laughed, we cooked (well, she cooked, while I mostly stirred and made jokes), and by the end of the night, I was convinced that I could live solely on pumpkin gnocchi for the rest of my days. Trust me; it’s a dish that brings people together, perfect for cozy family gatherings or an intimate date night.
Why You'll Love This Pumpkin Gnocchi with Brown Butter
- This amazing Pumpkin Gnocchi with Brown Butter offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Ingredients You’ll need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Pumpkin Gnocchi with Brown Butter:
- Pumpkin Puree: Use canned puree or homemade; either adds a lovely sweetness and color to the dish.
- All-Purpose Flour: Essential for binding your gnocchi together; adjust as needed based on humidity.
- Eggs: These act as a binder; fresh eggs work best for flavor and texture.
- Brown Butter: For that nutty flavor explosion; just be careful not to burn it!
- Sage Leaves: Fresh sage elevates the dish with its herbal notes; feel free to use dried in a pinch.
For the Sauce:
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated fresh cheese will create a creamy finish; it’s worth it! For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Gochujang Udon Noodles recipe.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste; essential seasonings to enhance all those flavors.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make It
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Pumpkin Gnocchi with Brown Butter:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. If using fresh pumpkin, roast it until tender before blending into a smooth puree.
Step 2: Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine pumpkin puree, flour (start with about two cups), and eggs. Knead gently until you get a soft dough—avoid overworking it unless you want chewy gnocchi!
Step 3: Shape the Gnocchi
Divide your dough into smaller sections and roll each into long ropes about half an inch thick. Cut them into bite-sized pieces (about an inch long). Use a fork to create ridges if you’re feeling fancy—this helps hold onto that heavenly brown butter sauce later.
Step 4: Cook the Gnocchi
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Drop in your gnocchi and cook until they float (about two minutes). Scoop them out using a slotted spoon and set aside.
Step 5: Make the Brown Butter Sauce
In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter until bubbly and golden brown—keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn! Toss in sage leaves and let them crisp up.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Add your cooked gnocchi to the skillet and gently toss everything together until well-coated in that glorious brown butter sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with additional brown butter if desired for the perfect finishing touch! Enjoy every last bite of this delightful dish that is sure to impress even your pickiest eaters!
You Must Know About Pumpkin Gnocchi with Brown Butter
- This amazing Pumpkin Gnocchi with Brown Butter offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Perfecting Cooking Process
Start by roasting the pumpkin until it’s beautifully caramelized, then mash it while it’s still warm. Prepare your dough by combining the mashed pumpkin with flour, egg, and a pinch of salt. Roll out the dough, cut into pieces, and boil until they float. Quickly toss with brown butter for that irresistible flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to mix in ricotta for creaminess, swap out sage for thyme if that’s your jam, or sprinkle in some Parmesan for an extra cheesy kick. You can even add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to jazz things up!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover gnocchi in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply sauté in a pan with a bit more brown butter until warmed through and crispy on the outside.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Pumpkin Gnocchi with Brown Butter
- 1.
- Don’t overwork your dough; a gentle hand keeps your gnocchi light and fluffy. 2.
- Make sure your pumpkin is well-drained to avoid soggy gnocchi – nobody likes that! 3.
- When boiling gnocchi, wait until they float to ensure they’re perfectly cooked.
Sometimes I whip up this dish when friends visit, and their delighted faces remind me why I love cooking—there’s nothing like sharing good food and laughter around the table!
FAQs
What is Pumpkin Gnocchi with Brown Butter?
Pumpkin gnocchi with brown butter is a delicious Italian dish that combines soft, pillowy gnocchi made from pumpkin puree with a rich and nutty brown butter sauce. The dish is often enhanced with sage, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. This comforting meal is perfect for fall or any time you’re craving something hearty and flavorful. Cooking the gnocchi until they float in boiling water ensures they are tender, while the brown butter adds depth and richness to the overall taste.
How do you make Pumpkin Gnocchi?
To make pumpkin gnocchi, start by roasting or steaming fresh pumpkin until it’s soft. Then, mash it and mix with flour, egg, and a pinch of salt to form a dough. Roll the dough into ropes and cut them into small pieces before shaping them. Boil the gnocchi in salted water until they float to the top—this indicates they’re done. Drain and toss them in your desired sauce, such as brown butter for an irresistible flavor.
Can I freeze Pumpkin Gnocchi?
Yes, you can freeze pumpkin gnocchi! After shaping the uncooked gnocchi, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze them until solid before transferring them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, cook directly from frozen by boiling in salted water until they float.
What pairs well with Pumpkin Gnocchi with Brown Butter?
Pumpkin gnocchi with brown butter pairs beautifully with various ingredients. Sage is a classic herb that complements the dish’s flavors wonderfully. You can also add crispy pancetta or walnuts for texture and nuttiness. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese enhances the taste further. For a refreshing contrast, serve it alongside a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette.
Conclusion
In summary, pumpkin gnocchi with brown butter is a delightful dish that celebrates seasonal flavors while offering comforting textures. With its easy preparation method and versatile pairings, this meal has everything you need for a cozy dinner. By making your own gnocchi from scratch and pairing it with rich brown butter sauce, you create a memorable culinary experience perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this warm dish as you savor its deliciousness!
Pumpkin Gnocchi with Brown Butter
Pumpkin Gnocchi with Brown Butter is a delightful fall dish that melds the sweet, earthy flavors of pumpkin with a rich brown butter sauce. Each tender gnocchi is infused with nutty notes and enhanced by crispy sage and Parmesan cheese, making it perfect for cozy family dinners or romantic date nights. With its vibrant colors and comforting textures, this dish is sure to impress anyone at your table.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or homemade)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (adjust as needed)
- 1 large egg
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 8 fresh sage leaves
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients. If using fresh pumpkin, roast until tender, then blend into a smooth puree.
- In a mixing bowl, combine pumpkin puree, flour (starting with 2 cups), and egg. Knead gently to form a soft dough.
- Divide the dough into sections and roll each into ropes about 1/2 inch thick. Cut into bite-sized pieces and create ridges with a fork if desired.
- Boil salted water in a large pot. Drop in gnocchi and cook until they float (approximately 2 minutes). Remove with a slotted spoon.
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter until golden brown; add sage leaves to crisp up.
- Toss cooked gnocchi in the skillet until well-coated in brown butter. Season with salt and pepper before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 80mg