Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe aroma of simmering spices and rich, earthy pumpkin fills the kitchen, instantly transporting you to a cozy fall gathering. In this post, I’m thrilled to share 17 irresistible canned pumpkin recipes, including an unforgettable pumpkin gnocchi that will elevate your culinary game. Whether you’re looking to whip up a hearty soup, divine dessert, or flavorful pasta dish, these recipes offer the versatility of canned pumpkin, ensuring meal prep is not only enjoyable but also incredibly easy. Not only will you impress your loved ones, but you’ll also enjoy the benefits of incorporating this nutrient-packed ingredient into your meals. Ready to embrace all the warmth and comfort of autumn in your kitchen? Let’s dive into these delicious recipes together! Why is pumpkin gnocchi a must-try? Comforting and Cozy: These fluffy, pillowy gnocchi bring a taste of fall right to your dining table, enveloping you in warmth with every bite. Unique Flavor Fusion: The creamy pumpkin paired with aromatic spices creates a delightful balance of sweetness and earthiness, perfect for the season. Easy to Make: This recipe embraces simplicity, making it accessible for both novice and experienced cooks. You can whip up a batch in no time! Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a standalone dish or with your favorite sauce; it’s a crowd-pleaser that impresses at any gathering. Healthy Indulgence: Packed with vitamins, this gnocchi not only satisfies your cravings but also nourishes your body. Don’t miss out on trying it alongside our other canned pumpkin recipes! Pumpkin Gnocchi Ingredients • Dive into the flavors of fall with this delicious Pumpkin Gnocchi recipe! For the Gnocchi • Canned Pumpkin – Adds moisture and natural sweetness; perfect to enhance the flavor of your gnocchi. • Flour – Creates the structure; using all-purpose or whole wheat flour helps to achieve the right texture. • Egg – Binds the ingredients together; for a vegan alternative, you can use a flax egg. • Salt – Enhances the flavors; fresh sea salt gives the best taste. • Nutmeg – Infuses warm, savory notes; a little goes a long way, so adjust to taste. For the Sauce (Optional) • Butter – Adds richness and creaminess; you can substitute with olive oil for a lighter option. • Sage Leaves – Provides a fragrant, earthy flavor; fresh sage is always preferable for best results. • Parmesan Cheese – Grates over the top for that delightful umami finish; nutritional yeast works well for a vegan option. Serving Suggestions • Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Sprinkle for a pop of heat; it complements the sweetness of the pumpkin beautifully. • Toasted Pecans or Walnuts – Adds crunch and depth of flavor; try this for an extra texture contrast. Embrace the versatility of pumpkin gnocchi and transform your meals into warming fall feasts! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Gnocchi Step 1: Prepare the Dough Begin by opening your canned pumpkin, measuring out the desired amount, and placing it in a large mixing bowl. Add flour, a pinch of salt, a beaten egg, and a dash of nutmeg. Using a fork, gently mix the ingredients until a sticky dough forms. This should take about 3-5 minutes. If the dough is too sticky, gradually add more flour, aiming for a soft but manageable texture. Step 2: Roll and Cut the Gnocchi On a floured surface, divide the dough into manageable portions. Roll each section into long ropes, about ½ inch thick. Cut the ropes into 1-inch pieces to form the gnocchi. Use the tines of a fork to create ridges on each piece, which will help hold onto sauces later. Set the shaped gnocchi aside on a floured baking sheet while you prepare to cook them. Step 3: Boil the Gnocchi In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, gently drop the gnocchi into the water in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Cook for about 2-4 minutes or until the gnocchi float to the surface, which indicates they are done. Using a slotted spoon, carefully remove them and transfer to a plate while you prepare the sauce. Step 4: Make the Sauce In a nonstick skillet, melt butter over medium heat, allowing it to foam slightly. Add fresh sage leaves and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and the butter begins to brown. Add the cooked pumpkin gnocchi to the skillet and gently toss them in the sage butter for about 1-2 minutes, ensuring they are well-coated and heated through, creating a symphony of flavors. Step 5: Serve and Enjoy Transfer the pumpkin gnocchi to serving plates. Optionally, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top and garnish with crushed red pepper flakes or toasted nuts for added texture. Serve warm to embrace the cozy fall vibes, and savor the delightful flavors of your creamy pumpkin gnocchi that everyone will love! What to Serve with Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi? The comforting warmth of pumpkin gnocchi calls for delightful accompaniments that elevate your dining experience to new heights. Garlic Bread: This classic favorite offers a crunchy contrast to the soft gnocchi. Its buttery, garlicky aroma brings an irresistible flavor that perfectly balances the dish’s creaminess. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These crispy, caramelized veggies add a touch of earthiness to your meal. Their slight bitterness pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the pumpkin. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with balsamic vinaigrette provides a refreshing counterpoint. Crisp greens and seasonal fruits brighten up each bite, complementing the rich gnocchi beautifully. Herbed Grilled Chicken: Juicy, seasoned chicken offers a protein-packed addition. Its savory flavor complements the sweetness of the gnocchi, creating a satisfying and hearty plate. Creamy Tomato Soup: A warm bowl of this classic soup enriches your gnocchi experience. The tangy tomatoes contrast the pumpkin’s sweetness, making each meal feel cozy. Pecan Pie: For dessert, a slice of this nutty, sweet treat rounds off the meal perfectly. Its crunchy topping and silky filling echo the flavors of the gnocchi, making for a harmonious finale. Cider or White Wine: A glass of chilled apple cider or a crisp white wine adds a refreshing twist. Their bright flavors enhance the earthy undertones of pumpkin, completing your cozy autumn dining experience. Make Ahead Options These Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi are perfect for busy weeknights and can save you precious time! You can prepare the gnocchi dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover the formed gnocchi pieces with a damp towel or plastic wrap to prevent drying out. For best results, refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook, keeping that delightful texture intact. If you’re making the sauce ahead, feel free to sauté the sage and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, just boil the gnocchi and toss them in the reheated sage butter for a cozy dish that’s just as delicious as when freshly made! Expert Tips for Pumpkin Gnocchi Check Dough Texture: Ensure your dough is soft but not overly sticky. Gradually add flour if needed to achieve the right consistency for your pumpkin gnocchi. Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh sage and quality butter to enhance the flavor of your sauce. They will elevate the entire dish and complement the pumpkin beautifully. Don’t Overcook: Once the gnocchi floats to the surface in boiling water, remove it immediately to prevent them from becoming mushy. Timing is key for the perfect texture! Test Different Sauces: Feel free to experiment with different sauces; a creamy Alfredo or a simple olive oil and garlic concoction can also pair wonderfully with your pumpkin gnocchi. Storage Tips: If you have leftover gnocchi, store them in an airtight container in the fridge and sauté in butter for a quick, delicious meal the next day. Storage Tips for Pumpkin Gnocchi Room Temperature: Freshly cooked pumpkin gnocchi should not sit out for more than 2 hours. Store leftovers promptly to maintain quality and safety. Fridge: Place any leftover pumpkin gnocchi in an airtight container and refrigerate. They’re best enjoyed within 3 days for optimal freshness. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze uncooked gnocchi on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can last for up to 2 months. Reheating: To reheat cooked pumpkin gnocchi, simply sauté them in a bit of butter on medium heat for a few minutes until warmed through. This brings back their delightful texture and flavor. Pumpkin Gnocchi Variations & Substitutions Feel free to play around with this recipe; your culinary creativity is encouraged to shine through deliciously! Gluten-Free: Substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour blends to make it suitable for gluten intolerance. Vegan: Replace the egg with a flax egg and use coconut oil instead of butter to create a dairy-free delight. Herbaceous Twist: Add finely chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for an aromatic boost. Cheesy Flavor: Mix in a hint of nutritional yeast or vegan cheese for a cheesy undertone that’s both delicious and dairy-free. Pumpkin Spice Boost: Enhance the flavor profile by adding pumpkin pie spice into the dough for a festive flair. This aromatic blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice opens the door to even more seasonal charm. Sweet Indulgence: For a sweet twist, add brown sugar and vanilla to the dough and serve with a drizzle of maple syrup. It’s a delightful dessert that transforms the traditional gnocchi! Heat Level Options: Incorporate cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes into the sauce for those who enjoy a little kick. It perfectly balances the sweet creaminess of the pumpkin. Add-ins: Mix in cooked spinach or other vegetables into the dough for extra nutrition—it’s a great way to sneak in some greens and boost the flavor. If you’re curious about other ways to incorporate that lovely fall flavor, check out the variety of options in our other canned pumpkin recipes! Each dish brings its own heartwarming twist to the table. Pumpkin Gnocchi Recipe FAQs How do I select the best canned pumpkin? Absolutely! When choosing canned pumpkin, look for one that is labeled as “100% pure pumpkin” without any added sugars or spices. Check the can for any dents or rust, as these could indicate spoilage. Ideally, the pumpkin should have a rich, vibrant orange color and be free of any dark spots, which may affect flavor and quality. What’s the best way to store leftover pumpkin gnocchi? Very! After cooking, allow leftover pumpkin gnocchi to cool completely. Then, place them in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure they are not left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to maintain food safety. Can I freeze uncooked pumpkin gnocchi? Definitely! To freeze uncooked pumpkin gnocchi, lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet and place in the freezer until firm, about 1-2 hours. Once solid, transfer the gnocchi to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When ready to cook, you can drop them straight into boiling water without thawing. How can I troubleshoot soggy pumpkin gnocchi? If your pumpkin gnocchi turn out soggy, it’s likely due to too much moisture in the dough. Make sure to balance the canned pumpkin with the right amount of flour. If needed, sprinkle in additional flour during the mixing process to achieve a soft but non-sticky dough. Remember, it’s better to start with less pumpkin or adjust as you mix to prevent excess moisture. Are there any dietary considerations for pumpkin gnocchi? Indeed, using canned pumpkin makes this recipe a healthy option that’s naturally low in calories while being nutrient-rich. If you’re concerned about gluten, swap the regular flour for a gluten-free blend. For vegetarians, you can easily substitute the egg with a flax egg by mixing 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, letting it sit until it thickens. Can I make pumpkin gnocchi without an egg? Of course! You can create a delicious vegan version by using a flax egg as mentioned earlier (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water). There are also commercial egg replacers available that work well in gnocchi recipes. Just remember to adjust the texture by adding more flour if needed to keep your gnocchi light and fluffy. Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi: A Cozy Fall Comfort Food Delight Enjoy the cozy flavors of fall with this creamy pumpkin gnocchi recipe, a delightful comfort food that impresses at any gathering. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 320 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Gnocchi1 cup Canned Pumpkin Adds moisture and natural sweetness2 cup Flour All-purpose or whole wheat flour for texture1 large Egg Binds the ingredients together1 teaspoon Salt Enhances flavors, use fresh sea salt1/4 teaspoon Nutmeg Infuses warm, savory notesFor the Sauce (Optional)4 tablespoon Butter Adds richness and creaminess5 leaves Sage Leaves Provides a fragrant, earthy flavor1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Optional for garnishingServing Suggestions1 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Flakes For a pop of heat1/4 cup Toasted Pecans or Walnuts For added crunch Equipment mixing bowlForkFloured SurfacePotnonstick skilletslotted spoon Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Pumpkin GnocchiPrepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine canned pumpkin, flour, salt, beaten egg, and nutmeg. Mix until a sticky dough forms.Roll and Cut the Gnocchi: On a floured surface, roll dough into ropes and cut into 1-inch pieces. Use a fork to create ridges.Boil the Gnocchi: In a pot of boiling salted water, drop the gnocchi in batches. Cook until they float, about 2-4 minutes.Make the Sauce: In a skillet, melt butter and add sage. Sauté until fragrant. Toss cooked gnocchi in sage butter for 1-2 minutes.Serve and Enjoy: Plate the gnocchi and optionally sprinkle with Parmesan and garnish with red pepper flakes or nuts. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 9gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 5000IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1.5mg NotesEnsure dough is soft and not overly sticky. Use fresh ingredients for best flavor. Experiment with different sauces for variety. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
