Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake

Name: Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 350g pumpkin, peeled and diced; 500g gnocchi; 50g blue cheese or soft goat's cheese; 6g sage leaves; 400ml vegetable stock; ¼ cup single dairy cream; 50g mozzarella or cheddar cheese; 30g pecans

Published: October 17, 2025

by Victoria

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious meal without any hassle.
Flavorful Combination: The blend of pumpkin, cheese, and herbs results in a rich flavor profile that delights every palate.
Versatile Dish: This Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake can be served as a main course or a side dish at any gathering.
Seasonal Ingredients: Utilizing pumpkin makes this recipe perfect for Fall and Thanksgiving celebrations.
Nutritious Option: Packed with nutrients from pumpkin and nuts, it’s a comforting yet healthy choice.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake successfully, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delicious dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Baking dish
Pot for boiling
Skillet
Mixing spoon

Importance of Each Tool

Baking dish: Ensures even cooking and browning of your gnocchi bake.
Pot for boiling: Necessary for cooking gnocchi before baking; it helps achieve the perfect texture.
Skillet: Ideal for sautéing sage leaves and adding flavor to the dish.
Mixing spoon: Helps in combining ingredients smoothly for an even bake.

Ingredients

For the Bake

350g pumpkin, peeled and diced into bite-sized cubes
500g gnocchi
50g blue cheese or soft goat’s cheese
6g sage leaves
400ml vegetable stock
¼ cup single dairy cream
50g mozzarella or cheddar cheese
30g pecans

How to Make Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). This ensures that your Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake cooks evenly.

Step 2: Cook the Pumpkin

In a pot of boiling water:
1. Add the diced pumpkin and cook until tender (about 10 minutes).
2. Drain the pumpkin once cooked.

Step 3: Prepare the Gnocchi

In another pot:
1. Boil water and add gnocchi.
2. Cook until they float (approximately 2-3 minutes).
3. Drain gently.

Step 4: Mix Ingredients

In a skillet over medium heat:
1. Add vegetable stock and bring it to a simmer.
2. Stir in the cooked pumpkin, cream, blue cheese, and half of the mozzarella or cheddar cheese.
3. Add cooked gnocchi to the mix, stirring gently.

Step 5: Assemble the Bake

Transfer the mixture to your baking dish:
1. Top with remaining cheese.
2. Scatter pecans and sage leaves on top.

Step 6: Bake

Place in the preheated oven:
1. Bake for about 20 minutes or until golden brown on top.
2. Remove from oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your deliciously creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake!

How to Serve Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake

Serving Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake can elevate your dining experience. This dish is not just about the flavors; it’s also about presentation and pairing. Here are a few suggestions to enhance your meal.

With a Fresh Salad

Arugula Salad: Toss arugula with cherry tomatoes, lemon vinaigrette, and shaved parmesan for a refreshing contrast.
Spinach and Feta Salad: Combine fresh spinach with crumbled feta, walnuts, and a balsamic glaze for a savory bite.

Topped with Extra Cheese

More Mozzarella: Add an extra layer of mozzarella on top before baking for an even cheesier experience.
Parmesan Crust: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top for a crunchy finish that adds depth to the flavors.

Accompanied by Grilled Vegetables

Zucchini and Bell Peppers: Grill slices of zucchini and bell peppers, seasoned with olive oil, to complement the creamy gnocchi.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Serve roasted Brussels sprouts drizzled with balsamic reduction for a sweet-and-savory twist.

Finished with Crunchy Nuts

Toasted Pine Nuts: Scatter toasted pine nuts on top for added texture and nutty flavor.
Chopped Walnuts: Add chopped walnuts for a heartier crunch that pairs well with pumpkin.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake

To achieve the best version of Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake, consider these helpful tips.

Use Fresh Pumpkin: Opting for fresh pumpkin instead of canned will enhance the flavor and texture.
Don’t Overcook the Gnocchi: Boil gnocchi until they float to ensure they remain soft and chewy in the bake.
Experiment with Cheeses: Try different cheeses like ricotta or feta to find your favorite combination.
Add More Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can elevate the dish’s aroma and taste.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake

Pairing side dishes with Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake can create an unforgettable meal. Below are some excellent options.

Garlic Bread: A classic choice that complements the creamy pasta beautifully.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness balances out the savory notes of the gnocchi.
Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine lettuce and creamy dressing add freshness to your plate.
Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus provides a nutritious green element that contrasts nicely.
Bruschetta: This appetizer features toasted bread topped with tomatoes and basil, offering a bright flavor burst.
Baked Broccoli: Seasoned baked broccoli florets add both color and nutrition without overpowering the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

Neglecting the texture – Make sure not to overcook the gnocchi. This can lead to a mushy texture in your bake. Cook them until just tender before mixing with other ingredients.
Overloading with cheese – While cheese adds flavor, too much can overwhelm the dish. Stick to the recommended amounts for a balanced taste.
Skipping the sage – Sage adds a unique flavor that complements pumpkin beautifully. Don’t skip this herb; fresh sage leaves make a big difference.
Ignoring seasoning – The recipe includes vegetable stock, but don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Adding salt and pepper will enhance the final dish.
Not allowing enough time to bake – The bake needs adequate time in the oven for everything to meld together. Rushing this step may result in uneven cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
The Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake

Use a freezer-safe container for optimal storage.
You can freeze it for up to 2 months; just ensure it’s cooled completely before freezing.

Reheating Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake

Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through.
Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish and cover. Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
Stovetop: Warm gently over medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of cream or stock if it seems dry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake:

Can I use homemade gnocchi for this recipe?

Yes, homemade gnocchi works wonderfully! Just ensure they are cooked properly before adding them to the bake.

What other cheeses can I use besides blue cheese?

You can substitute blue cheese with soft goat’s cheese or even ricotta for a milder flavor.

How can I customize my Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarian diets?

Absolutely! This Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake is vegetarian-friendly and packed with flavors.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake is not only comforting but also versatile, making it perfect for chilly evenings or festive gatherings. Feel free to customize it with your favorite herbs or vegetables, ensuring it aligns perfectly with your family’s tastes. Give it a try, and enjoy every bite of this creamy delight!

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