Pumpkin Gnocchi with Brown Butter Sauce

As autumn unfolds, the air turns crisp, and pumpkin becomes a star ingredient in countless recipes. One dish that beautifully embodies the essence of fall is pumpkin gnocchi with brown butter sauce. This delightful pasta, originating from Italy, marries the comforting flavors of pumpkin with a nutty, aromatic sauce that elevates the dish to new culinary heights. With its rich history and cultural significance, gnocchi has long been a beloved staple in Italian cuisine, often enjoyed during family gatherings and festive occasions.

Pumpkin Gnocchi with Brown Butter Sauce

Embrace the flavors of autumn with a delicious recipe for pumpkin gnocchi in a rich brown butter sauce. This dish combines the sweet, vibrant notes of pumpkin with the nutty aroma of browned butter, creating a delightful meal that's perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in. Learn to make this seasonal favorite from scratch with a step-by-step guide, exploring the history of gnocchi and the nutritional benefits of pumpkin, all while indulging in a comforting culinary experience. Enjoy the satisfaction of homemade gnocchi!

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Ingredients

For the Gnocchi:

2 cups pumpkin puree (either homemade or canned)

1 large egg

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon nutmeg (preferably freshly grated)

2 to 2.5 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)

For the Brown Butter Sauce:

½ cup unsalted butter

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried sage)

Salt and pepper to taste

Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Toasted pine nuts (optional), for garnish

Instructions

Make the Gnocchi Dough:

- In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, egg, salt, and nutmeg. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.

- Gradually incorporate the flour, starting with 2 cups. Use a fork or your hands to mix until a soft dough begins to form. If the dough feels sticky, add more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it achieves a soft but non-sticky consistency.

Shape the Gnocchi:

- Transfer the dough to a floured work surface and divide it into four equal sections.

- Roll each section into a long rope approximately ¾ inch thick. Cut each rope into bite-sized pieces, aiming for segments about 1 inch long.

- Optionally, press the back of a fork against each piece to create ridges, which will help the sauce adhere better.

Cook the Gnocchi:

- Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle boil. Carefully add the gnocchi in batches to avoid overcrowding. Initially, they will sink, but once they float to the surface, let them cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.

- Use a slotted spoon to transfer the gnocchi to a plate. Repeat this process with any remaining gnocchi.

Prepare the Brown Butter Sauce:

- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Allow it to foam, then continue to cook until it turns a light golden brown and emits a nutty aroma, about 3-4 minutes.

- Stir in the minced garlic and chopped sage, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.

- Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.

Toss the Gnocchi:

- Gently add the cooked gnocchi into the skillet with the brown butter sauce. Toss to ensure even coating, cooking for another 1-2 minutes to heat through.

Serve:

- Plate the pumpkin gnocchi, finishing with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and toasted pine nuts if desired. Enjoy your scrumptious Pumpkin Gnocchi with Brown Butter Sauce!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 40 minutes | 4 servings