Pumpkin Gnocchi Spinach Sausage: A Delicious Fall Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy and comforting dish that perfectly captures the essence of fall, you’ve come to the right place! This Pumpkin Gnocchi Spinach Sausage: A Delicious Fall Recipe is one of those meals that wraps you in warmth and flavor. The combination of homemade pumpkin gnocchi with a savory spinach sausage sauce makes for a delightful dining experience, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special family gathering.

This recipe is not only delicious but also showcases the beautiful autumn flavors we all adore. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate the season and impress your loved ones with your cooking skills. Plus, there’s something incredibly satisfying about making gnocchi from scratch!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll find this dish comes together effortlessly.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will adore the comforting flavors of pumpkin and sausage in this hearty meal.
• Versatile Options: You can easily customize the recipe based on what you have on hand or your taste preferences.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week!
• Seasonal Delight: Celebrate fall with every bite, as this recipe highlights seasonal ingredients beautifully.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to bring this comforting dish to life! These items are easy to find at your local grocery store or farmer’s market, so no need for anything fancy here.

For the Gnocchi

• 1.5 lbs Pumpkin puree (fresh or canned, unsweetened)
• 1 large Egg
• 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon Ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon Salt
• 1/4 teaspoon Black pepper
• Approximately 2-2.5 cups All-purpose flour, plus more for dusting

For the Sauce

• 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or hot, casings removed)
• 1 large Onion, chopped
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 5 oz Baby spinach
• 1/2 cup Chicken broth
• 1/4 cup Heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
• Fresh sage leaves, for garnish (optional)
• Brown butter sauce (optional)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to play around with different flavors and ingredients. Here are a few ideas to inspire your culinary creativity:

• Swap the protein: Feel free to use turkey sausage or even plant-based sausage if you prefer a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Sneak in some diced bell peppers or mushrooms into the sauce for added texture and nutrition.
• Change up the greens: Instead of spinach, try using kale or Swiss chard for a different flavor profile.
• Herb it up: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can be added for an aromatic touch that enhances the overall flavor.

How to Make Pumpkin Gnocchi Spinach Sausage: A Delicious Fall Recipe

Step 1: Roast the Pumpkin

If you’re using fresh pumpkin, start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the pumpkin in half and remove the seeds. Place it cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast it until tender—this usually takes about 45-60 minutes. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the pumpkin; once it’s cooled slightly, scoop out the flesh and puree it until smooth. If you’re using canned pumpkin puree, just make sure to drain any excess liquid.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together your pumpkin puree with an egg, grated Parmesan cheese, ground nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. Mixing these wet ingredients well ensures that you have a flavorful base for your gnocchi.

Step 3: Gradually Add Flour

Start adding about 2 cups of flour into your mixture. Using a wooden spoon or spatula, gently mix until you form a shaggy dough. It’s important not to overmix at this stage; we just want everything combined without developing too much gluten.

Step 4: Knead Lightly

Turn your dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it gently for just a minute or two—add more flour if needed—until it forms a soft ball that’s slightly sticky but manageable. This step helps develop just enough structure in your gnocchi while keeping them light and fluffy.

Step 5: Rest the Dough

Wrap your dough in plastic wrap and let it rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. This resting period allows the gluten to relax so that shaping the gnocchi is easier later on.

Step 6: Divide the Dough

After resting, divide your dough into four equal portions. Keeping portions manageable makes rolling easier!

Step 7: Roll into Ropes

On a floured surface, roll one portion of dough into a long rope about ½ inch in diameter. Make sure to keep any remaining dough covered so it doesn’t dry out while you work on each piece.

Step 8: Cut into Gnocchi

With either a sharp knife or dough scraper, cut your rope into pieces roughly ¾-inch long. These will be your gnocchi!

Step 9: Shape (Optional)

For that classic gnocchi look, gently roll each piece over the tines of a fork or use a gnocchi board. This step isn’t necessary but adds nice grooves that help hold onto sauce better.

Step 10: Dust with Flour

Place all formed gnocchi onto a lightly floured baking sheet so they don’t stick together while you prepare them for cooking.

Step 11: Bring Water to a Boil

In preparation for cooking your gnocchi perfectly al dente, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.

Step 12: Cook the Gnocchi

Carefully drop batches of gnocchi into boiling water without overcrowding them—this ensures even cooking.

Step 13: Wait for Them to Float

Keep an eye on them; they’re ready when they float to the top! This usually takes about 2-3 minutes—a fun little magic trick that tells you they’re cooked!

Step 14: Remove and Drain

Once floating, use a slotted spoon to remove them from water and drain well—they’re now ready for their delicious sauce!

Step 15: Brown the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat with olive oil heated through, add your sausage. Break it apart as it cooks until browned through—this adds great flavor!

Step 16: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Toss in chopped onion and let it soften up; this should take about five minutes. Then add minced garlic along with red pepper flakes if you’re feeling brave! Cooking garlic until fragrant adds an irresistible aroma.

Step 17: Add the Spinach

Once onions are softened nicely stir in baby spinach until wilted—it only takes about two minutes—ensuring even cooking by stirring occasionally.

Step 18: Deglaze with Chicken Broth

Pour in chicken broth while scraping up any tasty browned bits stuck at bottom of skillet—this adds depth of flavor!

Step 19: Simmer and Thicken

Bring everything to simmer; let it cook down about five-ten minutes until thickened slightly—a wonderful saucy base is developing here!

Step 20: Add Cream (Optional)

For an even richer experience stir in heavy cream if desired; season with salt & pepper according taste buds’ approval!

Step 21: Add Gnocchi to Sauce

Finally! Toss those lovely cooked gnocchi into skillet with spinach sausage sauce—gently mix so each piece gets coated beautifully.

Step 22: Serve Immediately

Serve immediately while hot! Top each plate off with grated Parmesan cheese & fresh sage leaves if using—a perfect finish!

Optional Steps:

Step 23: Melt Brown Butter

For an extra special touch melt unsalted butter over medium heat in light-colored skillet—you’ll want see its color change as it browns nicely!

Step 24: Cook Until Browned

Swirl pan occasionally until butter turns nutty brown; fragrant aroma means it’s ready but be careful not burn it!

Step 25: Add Sage (Optional)

If desired add fresh sage leaves during browning process—they’ll infuse delightful flavor into butter sauce!

Step 26: Drizzle Over Gnocchi

Last but not least drizzle warm brown butter over plated gnocchi before serving—it really elevates this comforting dish!

Enjoy every bite of this Pumpkin Gnocchi Spinach Sausage recipe; I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Gnocchi Spinach Sausage: A Delicious Fall Recipe

Making your own pumpkin gnocchi can be a delightful experience, and with a few handy tips, you’ll elevate the dish to perfection!

• Use Fresh Pumpkin for Best Flavor: If you have access to fresh pumpkin, roasting it enhances its natural sweetness and flavor. Canned pumpkin is convenient, but nothing beats the homemade touch!

• Don’t Overwork the Dough: When kneading your dough, keep it gentle. Overworking can lead to tough gnocchi instead of the light, fluffy texture we all crave.

• Adjust Flour as Needed: The moisture content in your pumpkin can vary. Keep extra flour on hand and add it gradually until you achieve a soft but manageable dough.

• Test Cook One Gnocchi First: Before cooking all your gnocchi, boil one piece to check its texture. This way, you can adjust cooking time or seasoning if needed.

• Serve Immediately for Freshness: Gnocchi is best enjoyed right after cooking. If you need to prepare ahead of time, keep them warm in a covered dish or toss them lightly in olive oil to prevent sticking.

How to Serve Pumpkin Gnocchi Spinach Sausage: A Delicious Fall Recipe

Presenting your homemade pumpkin gnocchi beautifully can enhance the dining experience. Here are some ideas to make your dish shine!

Garnishes

• Fresh Sage Leaves: A few sautéed sage leaves not only add a pop of color but also infuse the dish with an aromatic herbal flavor.
• Extra Grated Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan on top adds a rich, savory finish that complements the dish perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed with olive oil and garlic, these crispy veggies provide a delightful crunch that pairs well with the creamy sauce.
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with a light vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the gnocchi.
• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for dipping into any leftover sauce—it’s simply irresistible!
• Butternut Squash Soup: For a cozy fall pairing, creamy butternut squash soup will harmonize beautifully with your pumpkin gnocchi.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll create an unforgettable meal that celebrates the flavors of fall! Enjoy every bite of this comforting dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin Gnocchi Spinach Sausage recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, saving you valuable moments in the kitchen during busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover gnocchi in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days.
• When storing, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• To freeze gnocchi, spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until firm.
• Transfer the frozen gnocchi to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
• For the sauce, let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat frozen gnocchi, boil them directly from frozen; they will take an extra minute or so to float.
• For the sauce, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove over low heat until warmed through.
• If reheating leftovers, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious dish!

Can I use store-bought gnocchi instead of homemade for Pumpkin Gnocchi Spinach Sausage?

Absolutely! While homemade gnocchi adds a personal touch, store-bought options are perfectly fine and save time. Just cook according to package instructions before adding them to your spinach sausage sauce.

What can I substitute for chicken broth in Pumpkin Gnocchi Spinach Sausage?

You can use vegetable broth as a flavorful alternative! This keeps the dish vegetarian-friendly while still providing depth to your sauce.

How do I prevent my pumpkin gnocchi from becoming mushy?

The key is ensuring your pumpkin puree is not too wet. If using fresh pumpkin, drain any excess moisture after pureeing. Additionally, be mindful of how much flour you add; you want a soft dough that holds together but isn’t overly sticky.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Gnocchi Spinach Sausage recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting hug on a plate that captures the essence of fall. I hope you enjoy making this dish as much as I do! It’s special because it combines seasonal flavors with simple ingredients that come together beautifully. So gather your friends and family around the table and share this delightful recipe with them. Happy cooking!