When fall arrives, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a bowl of rich, creamy pasta — and this Creamy Pumpkin Sage Gnocchi delivers that seasonal comfort with every bite.
Tender potato gnocchi is simmered in a silky pumpkin cream sauce that’s both savory and subtly sweet, flavored with garlic, nutmeg, and fresh sage for that warm autumn aroma. The sauce clings perfectly to the gnocchi, creating a dish that feels both luxurious and comforting.
Best of all, it takes just 20 minutes to make, so you can enjoy restaurant-quality flavor on a busy weeknight. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a cozy side dish, this recipe is a delicious reminder of why fall is the season for comfort food.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Pumpkin Sage Gnocchi
- Quick and easy: Ready in just 20 minutes!
- Rich and flavorful: Silky sauce with a perfect balance of savory and sweet.
- Perfect fall dish: Pumpkin, sage, and Parmesan in every bite.
- Restaurant-quality comfort: Feels fancy but incredibly easy to make.
- Versatile: Great as a main dish or alongside roasted chicken or salmon.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
This dish is the ultimate example of simple ingredients creating luxurious flavor. The pumpkin purée gives the sauce a smooth, slightly sweet base, while sage and garlic infuse it with a deep, aromatic note.
Unlike heavy cream sauces, this one is balanced and light enough for a weeknight meal but rich enough to impress guests. If you love creamy pastas, this recipe is your new fall favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6–8 fresh sage leaves (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- ¾ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter sauce)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for mild heat
How to Make Creamy Pumpkin Sage Gnocchi (Step by Step)
Step 1: Cook the gnocchi
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions — usually 2–3 minutes, until they float to the top. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the sage butter base
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the sage leaves and cook until fragrant and slightly crispy, about 2 minutes. Remove and set aside for garnish.
Step 3: Sauté garlic
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant (don’t let it brown).
Step 4: Add pumpkin and cream
Whisk in the pumpkin puree and heavy cream. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Season the sauce
Add nutmeg, salt, black pepper, and Parmesan cheese. Stir and simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 6: Add the gnocchi
Toss the cooked gnocchi into the sauce, stirring gently to coat each piece evenly. Simmer for another 2 minutes to let flavors meld.
Step 7: Serve and garnish
Serve warm, topped with crispy sage leaves, a sprinkle of Parmesan, and freshly ground pepper.
Tips for the Best Creamy Pumpkin Sage Gnocchi
- Use good-quality gnocchi – It makes all the difference in texture.
- Don’t overcook gnocchi – Remove as soon as they float to the top.
- Crisp your sage leaves – Adds texture and a hint of earthy flavor.
- Use pure pumpkin puree – Not sweetened pie filling.
- Add Parmesan gradually – Prevents clumping and keeps sauce silky.
- Simmer gently – High heat can break the cream sauce.
- Balance the flavor – Add a splash of lemon juice if it feels too rich.
- Season at the end – The Parmesan adds saltiness, so taste before adding more.
- Add a kick – A pinch of red pepper flakes enhances the depth.
- Serve immediately – The sauce thickens as it cools.
Variations & Substitutions
- Brown Butter Version: Use brown butter instead of plain for nutty richness.
- Vegan Option: Use coconut milk or oat cream and vegan Parmesan.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free gnocchi or homemade GF version.
- Add Protein: Toss in cooked chicken, shrimp, or sausage.
- Cheesy Twist: Stir in a handful of mozzarella for extra creaminess.
- Herb Swap: Try thyme or rosemary if you don’t have sage.
- Spicy Pumpkin Gnocchi: Add cayenne or chili flakes for heat.
- Lighter Version: Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or milk.
- Roasted Pumpkin Flavor: Use roasted pumpkin puree for deeper taste.
- Spinach Gnocchi: Add baby spinach for color and nutrition.
What to Serve With Creamy Pumpkin Sage Gnocchi
- Garlic bread or focaccia
- Crisp green salad with vinaigrette
- Roasted chicken or turkey breast
- Grilled salmon or shrimp
- Steamed or roasted vegetables (broccoli, asparagus, or carrots)
Storage & Reheating Tips
To Store:
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
To Freeze:
Freeze the sauce separately for up to 2 months (avoid freezing gnocchi once coated).
To Reheat:
Warm gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use homemade gnocchi?
Absolutely! Homemade gnocchi gives a softer, fluffier texture.
Can I use canned pumpkin?
Yes — just make sure it’s pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes — substitute butter with olive oil and cream with coconut milk.
How do I keep the sauce from separating?
Simmer gently and avoid boiling once the cream is added.
Can I add meat?
Yes, cooked chicken, pancetta, or sausage work beautifully.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, make the sauce in advance and toss with gnocchi before serving.
Can I use dried sage?
Yes, but use ½ teaspoon instead of fresh leaves.
Why is my sauce too thick?
Add a splash of milk or broth until it reaches your desired consistency.
Can I make it spicy?
Yes — add red pepper flakes or cayenne for a subtle kick.
Can I use butternut squash instead of pumpkin?
Definitely — it gives a similar texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Pumpkin Sage Gnocchi is the perfect blend of comfort and sophistication — an elegant dish that’s surprisingly easy to make. The creamy pumpkin sauce is rich yet balanced, the sage adds earthy depth, and the pillowy gnocchi make every bite feel like a warm hug.
It’s a dish that captures the essence of fall — cozy, flavorful, and irresistibly creamy. Serve it with a sprinkle of Parmesan and a glass of white wine, and you’ve got the ultimate autumn comfort meal.