Easy Pumpkin Gnocchi

Name: Easy Pumpkin Gnocchi
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 ⅔ cups cubed pumpkin; ⅔ cup cubed starchy potato; ½ tsp salt; ¾ cup flour; 2 tbsp vegan butter; 2 tsp packed sage

Published: October 13, 2025

by Victoria

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With just 25 minutes of prep time, you can create a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Deliciously Flavorful: The sweet pumpkin paired with savory sage butter delivers a comforting taste that captures the essence of fall.
Vegan-Friendly: This gnocchi is made without eggs or dairy, making it suitable for vegan diets while still being incredibly tasty.
Versatile Dish: Enjoy these gnocchi as a main course or serve them as a side dish to complement your favorite proteins.
Homemade Goodness: There’s something special about making gnocchi from scratch that elevates any meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Easy Pumpkin Gnocchi, you’ll need some essential tools that will help streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Potato masher
Mixing bowl
Large pot
Slotted spoon
Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

Potato masher: Helps achieve a smooth texture for the pumpkin and potatoes, ensuring your gnocchi are light and fluffy.
Mixing bowl: A large bowl provides ample space for combining all ingredients without making a mess.

Ingredients

These homemade pumpkin gnocchi are soft and simple, but oh so yummy. They make such a great fall dinner covered in vegan sage butter.

For the Gnocchi

2 ⅔ cups pumpkin (cubed)
⅔ cup starchy potato (cubed)
½ tsp salt
¾ cup flour

For the Sauce

2 tbsp vegan butter
2 tsp sage (densely packed)

How to Make Easy Pumpkin Gnocchi

Step 1: Cook the Pumpkin and Potato

In a large pot, bring water to a boil.
Add cubed pumpkin and potato; cook until tender (about 15 minutes).
Drain and let cool slightly before mashing.

Step 2: Make the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine mashed pumpkin, mashed potato, salt, and flour.
Mix until it forms a soft dough; avoid overworking it.

Step 3: Shape the Gnocchi

On a floured surface, divide dough into sections.
Roll each section into long ropes about ½ inch thick.
Cut into small pieces (about an inch long), then use a fork to create grooves.

Step 4: Cook the Gnocchi

Bring another pot of salted water to a boil.
Carefully drop gnocchi into boiling water; they are done when they float (about 2-3 minutes).
Remove with slotted spoon and set aside.

Step 5: Prepare Vegan Sage Butter

In a pan, melt vegan butter over medium heat.
Add sage leaves and sauté until fragrant (about 2 minutes).

Step 6: Serve

Toss cooked gnocchi with sage butter in the pan until evenly coated.
Plate your Easy Pumpkin Gnocchi and enjoy!

How to Serve Easy Pumpkin Gnocchi

These delicious homemade pumpkin gnocchi are perfect for a cozy dinner. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dish.

With Vegan Sage Butter

This classic combination enhances the gnocchi’s flavor with rich, nutty notes.

Tossed in Olive Oil and Garlic

A drizzle of olive oil and sautéed garlic brings a Mediterranean twist to your meal.

Served with a Creamy Vegan Sauce

Pair your gnocchi with a creamy cashew sauce for added richness and depth.

On a Bed of Spinach

Serve over wilted spinach for a healthy touch that adds color and nutrients.

Topped with Toasted Nuts

Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or walnuts for crunch and an extra layer of flavor.

How to Perfect Easy Pumpkin Gnocchi

Creating the perfect easy pumpkin gnocchi requires a few tricks. Follow these tips for the best results.

Use fresh pumpkin: Freshly roasted pumpkin gives better flavor than canned options.
Don’t overwork the dough: Gently mix the ingredients to keep the gnocchi light and fluffy.
Adjust flour as needed: Depending on moisture levels, you might need more or less flour.
Test a small batch first: Boil a few pieces to check if they hold their shape before cooking all.
Serve immediately after cooking: For the best texture, enjoy them right after boiling.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Pumpkin Gnocchi

Pairing side dishes with your easy pumpkin gnocchi can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:

Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Crispy and savory, these complement the soft gnocchi perfectly.
Garlic Bread – A crunchy side that offers delightful contrast to the tender pasta.
Mixed Green Salad – A light salad adds freshness, balancing out the hearty dish.
Steamed Broccoli – Nutritious and easy to prepare, it pairs well with the flavors of sage butter.
Mushroom Risotto – Creamy risotto provides an elegant addition that enhances your meal.
Caramelized Carrots – Sweet and slightly sticky, these add a lovely sweetness alongside savory gnocchi.
Parmesan Asparagus – Lightly roasted asparagus topped with vegan parmesan brings elegance to your table.
Balsamic Glazed Beets – Earthy beets add vibrant color and taste when served beside your dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Easy Pumpkin Gnocchi can be a delightful experience, but a few common mistakes might hinder your success. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

Overworking the dough: Gnocchi should be tender and light. If you overmix, they become tough. Handle the dough gently and only until combined.
Using too much flour: Adding excess flour can make your gnocchi dense. Start with the recommended amount and add more only if necessary.
Not measuring ingredients correctly: Accurate measurements are crucial for perfect texture. Use measuring cups for precision, especially for flour and pumpkin.
Skipping the potato: Using just pumpkin may lead to mushy gnocchi. The starchy potato adds structure, so don’t skip it!
Cooking in boiling water for too long: Overcooking leads to soggy gnocchi. They only need a few minutes; once they float, they’re done.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store cooled gnocchi in an airtight container.
They can last for about 2–3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Easy Pumpkin Gnocchi

Place uncooked gnocchi on a baking sheet in a single layer to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Easy Pumpkin Gnocchi

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place gnocchi on a baking dish with a little sauce, and heat for about 10 minutes.
Microwave: Place gnocchi in a microwave-safe bowl with a splash of water or sauce. Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
Stovetop: Sauté in a pan with vegan butter or sauce over medium heat until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Easy Pumpkin Gnocchi:

Can I use canned pumpkin?

Yes, you can use canned pumpkin puree as an alternative. Just make sure it’s not too watery; drain if necessary.

How do I know when my gnocchi is cooked?

The gnocchi will float to the surface of the water when they’re fully cooked. This usually takes just 2-3 minutes.

What can I serve with Easy Pumpkin Gnocchi?

This dish pairs wonderfully with sage butter, marinara sauce, or even a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for extra flavor.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour or almond flour for a gluten-free version of easy pumpkin gnocchi.

Final Thoughts

These Easy Pumpkin Gnocchi offer a wonderful mix of flavors and textures that embody fall. They’re not only simple to prepare but also versatile enough to adapt with various sauces or toppings. Don’t hesitate to customize by adding spices or herbs of your choice—your taste buds will thank you!

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