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Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Brown Butter Sage Sauce

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A comforting weeknight dinner featuring pillowy gnocchi tossed in a velvety sauce made from brown butter, pumpkin puree, and fresh sage. This recipe balances nutty, savory, and earthy flavors for a cozy meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pie filling)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 10–12 large fresh sage leaves
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup fresh Parmigiano-Reggiano, grated
  • 1 pound potato gnocchi
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pinch freshly grated nutmeg
  • Sea salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Wash and thoroughly pat dry the sage leaves with paper towels to prevent splattering.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add gnocchi and cook according to package directions (usually 2-3 minutes) until they float.
  3. Transfer cooked gnocchi directly into a large skillet using a slotted spoon; do not drain in a colander.
  4. In the skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Watch closely as it foams and turns from yellow to a deep golden brown, emitting a nutty aroma (3-4 minutes).
  5. Add sage leaves to the brown butter and fry for 30 seconds until crispy. Remove sage with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel.
  6. Reduce heat to low. Whisk pumpkin puree into the brown butter and cook for 1 minute.
  7. Stir in heavy cream and simmer gently for 2 minutes until slightly thickened.
  8. Add minced garlic, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Cook for 30 seconds without boiling.
  9. Add the cooked gnocchi to the sauce and toss gently to coat. Add a splash of pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
  10. Stir in half of the Parmesan cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  11. Plate immediately, topping with reserved crispy sage leaves and remaining Parmesan.

Notes

Ensure sage leaves are completely dry before frying to avoid dangerous splattering. Brown butter burns quickly, so stir constantly once foaming begins. If the sauce breaks, whisk in a splash of cold water. Do not freeze this dish as the gnocchi and cream sauce do not freeze well.

Nutrition

Keywords: pumpkin gnocchi, brown butter sage, creamy pasta, fall recipes, comfort food, vegetarian dinner, quick weeknight meals

Find it online: https://clunkcook.com/creamy-pumpkin-gnocchi-with-brown-butter-sage-sauce/