Crispy Gnocchi and Sausage with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce

Crispy Gnocchi and Sausage with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce is a delicious dish that brings the flavors of fall right to your table. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner, family gatherings, or even a quick weeknight meal. The crispy gnocchi paired with savory sausage and a creamy pumpkin sauce makes for a unique and satisfying experience that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: The combination of crispy gnocchi, savory sausage, and creamy pumpkin sauce creates a delicious flavor profile.
• Comforting: Perfectly suited for fall, this recipe warms you up with its hearty ingredients.
• Versatile: You can swap out the sausage for chicken or turkey, allowing for various flavor combinations.
• Healthy Option: Canned pumpkin adds nutrients while keeping the dish light yet satisfying.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delightful dish, having the right tools will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: This is essential for cooking the gnocchi and sausage evenly while allowing enough space for everything to cook without overcrowding.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring ingredients without scratching your skillet’s surface, ensuring everything mixes well.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements help maintain flavor balance in your creamy pumpkin sauce.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create Crispy Gnocchi and Sausage with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce:

For the Gnocchi and Sauce

• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (divided, plus more as needed)
• 8 – 10 fresh sage leaves + 1 tablespoon chopped sage
• 1 12 to 18 ounce package shelf-stable potato gnocchi
• 1 pound hot or sweet Italian sausage (casings removed if links)
• 3 large shallots (or 1 onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup))
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
• 5 garlic cloves (minced (about 1 1/2 tablespoons))
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 3/4 cup dry white apple vinegar
• 2 cups (15oz can) canned pumpkin (unsweetened)
• 1 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable stock
• 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese (or cream cheese or heavy cream)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese (for serving)

How to Make Crispy Gnocchi and Sausage with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Heat the oven to 275ºF and set a rack in the middle. Pull apart any stuck-together gnocchi to ensure they cook evenly.

Step 2: Cook the Gnocchi

In a large skillet over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, add the gnocchi. Cook until golden brown and crispy on both sides, about 4-5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Sausage

In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil. Add the sausage and cook until browned. Break it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks.

Step 4: Add Aromatics

Add chopped shallots (or onion), garlic, sage leaves, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Sauté until shallots are translucent.

Step 5: Create the Sauce

Pour in apple vinegar while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in canned pumpkin, chicken stock, and mascarpone cheese. Let simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return crispy gnocchi to the skillet. Gently toss to coat everything in sauce. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 7: Serve

Serve warm topped with grated cheese. Enjoy this comforting dish as a perfect fall meal!

How to Serve Crispy Gnocchi and Sausage with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce

Crispy Gnocchi and Sausage with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce is a delightful dish that combines textures and flavors perfectly. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

With Fresh Herbs

• Top the dish with freshly chopped parsley or additional sage for a burst of flavor.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve the gnocchi over sautéed spinach or kale to add a nutritious element and a vibrant color contrast.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair with slices of crusty bread to soak up the creamy pumpkin sauce, making every bite deliciously satisfying.

Garnished with Nuts

• Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or walnuts on top for added crunch and depth of flavor.

Accompanied by a Salad

• A simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish beautifully.

How to Perfect Crispy Gnocchi and Sausage with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce

To ensure your Crispy Gnocchi and Sausage with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce turns out perfect every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use high-quality gnocchi: Opt for fresh or shelf-stable gnocchi made from potatoes for the best texture.
• Preheat your pan: Ensure your skillet is hot before adding oil to achieve that crispy exterior on the gnocchi.
• Adjust spice levels: Customize the heat by using mild or spicy sausage, depending on your preference.
• Don’t rush the sauce: Allow the pumpkin sauce to simmer for a few extra minutes to enhance its flavors.
• Serve immediately: For the best texture, enjoy this dish right after cooking while it’s warm and crispy.

Best Side Dishes for Crispy Gnocchi and Sausage with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce

Complementing your Crispy Gnocchi and Sausage with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce can enhance your dining experience. Here are some side dishes that pair wonderfully.

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice, garlic bread adds a crunchy texture that pairs well with creamy dishes.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These offer a nutty flavor that balances well against the rich pumpkin sauce.
3. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus provides freshness and color, making it an elegant addition.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad adds protein and fiber while being refreshing against the hearty pasta.
5. Grilled Zucchini: Seasoned grilled zucchini slices bring out natural sweetness, complementing the pumpkin flavor.
6. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with a tangy dressing adds crunch that contrasts nicely with creamy sauces.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make mistakes that can impact your dish. Here are some common errors to avoid when making Crispy Gnocchi and Sausage with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce.

• Ignoring the oil temperature: If the oil isn’t hot enough, gnocchi won’t crisp up properly. Ensure your oil is heated before adding the gnocchi for that perfect crunch.
• Overcooking the sauce: Allowing the pumpkin sauce to simmer too long can lead to a thick and unappetizing texture. Keep an eye on it and stir frequently for a creamy consistency.
• Not seasoning adequately: Under-seasoning can make your dish bland. Taste as you cook and adjust salt and pepper levels to enhance flavors.
• Skipping the sage: Fresh sage adds a unique flavor profile. Don’t skip this ingredient; instead, consider using dried sage if fresh isn’t available, though fresh is preferred.
• Crowding the pan: When cooking sausage or gnocchi, overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of browning. Cook in batches if necessary for better texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• • Containers: Use glass or plastic containers with tight lids.

Freezing Crispy Gnocchi and Sausage with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce

• • Duration: Freeze for up to 2 months.
• • Containers: Use freezer-safe containers or bags; remove as much air as possible.

Reheating Crispy Gnocchi and Sausage with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, adding a splash of stock or water if needed to maintain creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Crispy Gnocchi and Sausage with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce.

Can I use different types of sausage?

Yes! You can substitute turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option while keeping the same flavors.

What if I don’t have fresh sage?

If fresh sage isn’t available, use dried sage but reduce the amount by half since dried herbs are more concentrated.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

Replace the sausage with mushrooms or plant-based sausage alternatives, and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock for a vegetarian-friendly version.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce ahead and store it separately; just reheat when ready to serve.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! It stores well in the refrigerator and reheats nicely, making it great for meal prepping.

Final Thoughts

Crispy Gnocchi and Sausage with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize this recipe by swapping out proteins or adding your favorite vegetables. Try it today, and enjoy a cozy fall dinner that’s sure to impress!