Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake Recipe

If you are looking for a dish that combines comfort, autumnal flavors, and a touch of indulgence, then the Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake is the perfect recipe to try. This cozy bake brings together the earthy sweetness of tender pumpkin cubes, pillowy soft gnocchi, and a luscious mix of cheeses that melt beautifully into the creamy base. Infused with the fragrant notes of crispy sage and crunchy pecans, this dish is as satisfying as it is delightful, making it an ideal centerpiece for any seasonal meal or a weeknight treat that feels special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of the Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake lies not only in its flavors but also in the simplicity of its ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating the ideal harmony of texture, taste, and color—bringing warmth and richness to every bite.

• 350g pumpkin: Provides natural sweetness and a creamy, tender texture that is the star of this bake.
• 500g gnocchi: Soft and pillowy, these little clouds soak up the creamy sauce perfectly.
• 50g blue cheese or soft goat’s cheese: Adds a tangy creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the sweet pumpkin.
• 6g sage leaves: When crisped, they offer an aromatic, savory touch that elevates the entire dish.
• 400ml vegetable stock: Keeps the bake moist and enriches the flavor without overpowering the delicate ingredients.
• ¼ cup single dairy cream: Adds indulgent creaminess to bind all the components together.
• 50g mozzarella or cheddar cheese: Melts into a golden topping, creating a luscious, bubbly crust.
• 30g pecans: Adds a satisfying crunch and nutty depth to balance the softness in the bake.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors.
• Olive oil (for sage leaves): Helps crisp the sage to a delightful finish.

How to Make Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake

Step 1: Prepare the Pumpkin

Start by peeling and dicing your pumpkin into small, bite-sized cubes about 2cm wide. This size ensures they cook evenly and become tender without turning mushy. If you are using an air fryer, toss the pumpkin cubes with 100ml of vegetable stock, seasoning them lightly with salt and pepper before cooking at 170°C for 15 minutes until just soft to the bite.

Step 2: Combine Gnocchi and Pumpkin

Once your pumpkin is gently softened, add the remaining vegetable stock to the cooking vessel. Nestle the gnocchi around the pumpkin pieces, allowing them to soak up the flavorful steam and stock as everything cooks together.

Step 3: Add Cheese and Cream

Crumble your chosen blue or goat’s cheese over the pumpkin and gnocchi for a rich, tangy flavor that melts into the dish. Pour the quarter cup of single dairy cream over everything and gently stir to blend the ingredients without breaking the gnocchi.

Step 4: Air Fry or Roast to Perfection

If air frying, raise the temperature to 220°C and cook for 12 minutes until the gnocchi are plump and cooked through, and the mixture bubbly. For an oven, roast at 220°C for 10-15 minutes with the same goal: tender pumpkin, soft gnocchi, and bubbling creaminess.

Step 5: Finish with Cheese, Pecans, and Sage

Sprinkle the mozzarella or cheddar cheese and pecans evenly across the bake, then continue cooking for an extra 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts into a gorgeous golden crust. Toss the sage leaves lightly in olive oil, scatter them on top, and return the bake for one last minute until the sage crisps up beautifully, adding a burst of aromatic flavor and crunch.

How to Serve Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake

Garnishes

For a vibrant touch, try a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few shavings of parmesan cheese. These garnishes add freshness and a little extra zing, brightening the rich, creamy dish.

Side Dishes

This bake pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or steamed green beans tossed in garlic butter. These sides add crisp, fresh textures that contrast the warm softness of the pumpkin gnocchi.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve individual portions in small cast iron skillets for a rustic look, or use a colorful ceramic baking dish to accentuate the rich orange hues of the pumpkin and the golden cheese topping. You could also present the bake with a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze to bring out the natural sweetness and add sophistication.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen over time, making for a delicious next-day meal that just needs reheating.

Freezing

This dish freezes well, making it a great option for meal prep. Freeze in a suitable container before baking or after cooking—if baking first, allow it to cool completely before freezing. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in the oven.

Reheating

Reheat the Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and bubbly again. You can cover it loosely with foil to prevent the top from over-browning while reheating.

FAQs

Can I substitute the pumpkin with butternut squash?

Absolutely! Butternut squash works beautifully in this bake and offers a similar sweetness and texture perfect for the recipe.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?

No worries at all! The oven instructions work just as well and produce a lovely baked finish with all the same flavors.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, by swapping the cream for a plant-based alternative, using vegan cheese, and replacing the blue/goat’s cheese with a vegan soft cheese, this bake can easily become vegan-friendly.

Is it okay to use frozen pumpkin?

You can use frozen pumpkin, but be sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before cooking to avoid a watery bake.

How crunchy do the pecans get after baking?

The pecans remain nicely crunchy, providing a wonderful texture contrast to the soft gnocchi and pumpkin, especially after the finishing crisp in the bake.

Final Thoughts

The Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake is a heartwarming dish that invites you to savor every creamy, cheesy, and herbaceous bite. It’s a fantastic recipe to pull out whenever you want something comforting yet impressive with minimal fuss. Don’t hesitate to give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite way to celebrate autumn and beyond!

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