If you are looking to elevate your weeknight dinners with a dish that tastes decadent yet feels comforting, this Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Sage Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine pillowy gnocchi enveloped in a luxuriously smooth pumpkin sauce with subtle hints of miso and maple syrup, all brought together by the fragrant crispiness of fried sage. It’s a perfect blend of cozy fall flavors and creamy textures that will make your taste buds sing and leave you eager to make it again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear blender container filled with smooth, bright orange sauce or puree that has a thick, creamy texture and a few small visible bits. The container is placed on a white marbled surface. The sauce covers the bottom and part of the sides inside the blender. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe calls for straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together harmoniously to create a rich and colorful dish. Each component plays a vital role—from the soft gnocchi providing the perfect base to the pumpkin bringing natural sweetness and that gorgeous orange hue.

16 oz gnocchi: Use store-bought for convenience or homemade for extra love and chewiness.
2 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing and adding a mild, fruity aroma to the dish.
1/2 yellow onion, chopped: Adds mild sweetness and depth of flavor.
1 small red bell pepper, chopped: Provides a subtle crunch and vibrant color contrast.
2 garlic cloves, minced: Brings a punch of savory warmth that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
1 cup pumpkin purée: The star ingredient—smooth, naturally sweet, and comforting.
1/2 cup unsweetened coconut cream*: Enriches the sauce with creaminess and a gentle coconut undertone.
1 tbsp white miso paste: Adds umami depth and balances the sweetness.
1 tsp maple syrup: Enhances the pumpkin’s natural sweetness with a subtle complexity.
2 tsp balsamic vinegar: Brings brightness and a slight tang to lift the sauce.
2 tbsp sage, chopped (and fried for serving): Offers an aromatic, crispy finishing touch that makes every bite special.

How to Make Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Sage Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper, cooking until softened and fragrant. This step creates a flavorful foundation that will romanticize your pumpkin sauce.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Pumpkin Purée

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds to release its aroma without burning. Then, add the pumpkin purée and gently mix to combine. This base will begin transforming into a velvety sauce packed with rich color and taste.

Step 3: Incorporate Coconut Cream and Seasonings

Pour in the unsweetened coconut cream followed by white miso paste, maple syrup, and balsamic vinegar. Stir continuously until the sauce becomes smooth and the miso fully dissolves—this careful balance of sweet, tangy, and savory layers creates the signature flavor of this Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Sage Recipe.

Step 4: Cook the Gnocchi

In a separate pot, boil the gnocchi until they float, indicating they’re perfectly cooked and tender. Drain and then toss them gently into the pumpkin sauce, making sure every piece is coated in that luscious creaminess.

Step 5: Fry the Sage

Heat a small pan with a dash of olive oil and fry the chopped sage until crisp. This final touch adds depth and an irresistible herbal crunch that complements the mild sweetness of the pumpkin.

Step 6: Assemble and Serve

Transfer the coated gnocchi to plates and sprinkle the crispy sage on top just before serving. This presentation looks as stunning as it tastes!

How to Serve Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Sage Recipe

A black bowl is filled with small, soft gnocchi pieces covered in a thick, creamy orange sauce. The gnocchi are plump and smooth with slight ridges on their surfaces. Scattered on top are several dark green fried sage leaves adding texture and color contrast. A silver spoon with a textured handle rests inside the bowl on the left side. The bowl sits on a wooden table next to two clear glasses of water and a cloth napkin with a woven texture. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding toasted pumpkin seeds or a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan enhances the texture and adds an extra layer of flavor. A few sage leaves fried until crisp are essential for that aromatic crunch, completing this dish spectacularly.

Side Dishes

This pumpkin gnocchi pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad lightly dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Roasted Brussels sprouts or garlic sautéed spinach also make excellent vegetable companions.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming autumn dinner, serve the gnocchi in a hollowed-out mini pumpkin or rustic ceramic bowls that showcase the vibrant orange sauce beautifully. Drizzle a little extra coconut cream on top for a marbled effect that wows at the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Sage Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce thickens overnight, so you might want to add a splash of coconut cream or water when reheating.

Freezing

This dish doesn’t freeze well because the gnocchi can become mushy. It’s best to enjoy it fresh or store it only in the fridge. If you want to prep in advance, freeze the gnocchi separately before cooking.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, and add a little more coconut cream or water to restore the creaminess. Avoid microwaving if possible to maintain the perfect texture.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin purée for this recipe?

Absolutely! Canned pumpkin purée works wonderfully and is convenient, just be sure to use pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added spices and sugar.

Is it possible to make this dish vegan?

Yes, this Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Sage Recipe is naturally vegan-friendly as it uses coconut cream instead of dairy. Just double-check your gnocchi ingredients, as some contain eggs.

What if I can’t find white miso paste?

You can substitute with yellow miso or even a mild soy sauce, although the flavor will be slightly different. The miso adds a subtle umami richness that enhances the sauce.

Can I make gnocchi from scratch for this recipe?

Definitely! Homemade gnocchi will add a delightful fresh texture, and it’s a fun cooking project. Just prepare them as usual and follow the recipe from the sauce step.

What type of sage is best for frying?

Fresh sage leaves are ideal for frying, as they become crisp and release their aromatic oils perfectly. Dried sage won’t achieve the same texture or flavor impact.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Sage Recipe is one of those magical dishes that feels both indulgent and homey. With its velvety pumpkin sauce, punchy umami notes, and crispy sage topping, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to keep in your seasonal rotation and share with friends at any cozy gathering. Give it a whirl and watch it become your new favorite fall comfort food!

Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Sage Recipe