This Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake is a cozy dish with soft gnocchi mixed with creamy pumpkin and cheesy goodness. It’s perfect for chilly nights when you need some comfort food!
I love how easy it is to whip up this bake and how it fills the kitchen with a warm, inviting smell. Just pop it in the oven and enjoy a slice of yumminess! 🍂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Gnocchi: You can use either store-bought or homemade gnocchi. Fresh or frozen varieties work. If you’re gluten-free, look for gluten-free gnocchi options available in stores.
Pumpkin Puree: Canned pumpkin puree is convenient and works well, but homemade puree is a great alternative if you have fresh pumpkins. Just bake or steam the pumpkin, then blend until smooth.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or even use a plant-based cream if you prefer dairy-free. Coconut milk can add a nice flavor too!
Cheeses: While mozzarella gives a great melt, other cheese options like ricotta, fontina, or gouda work nicely too. For more flavor, consider adding a bit of sharp cheddar or blue cheese.
Bacon: If you want a vegetarian option, skip the bacon or use mushrooms for that umami flavor. Smoked paprika can add a similar depth without meat.
How Do I Cook Gnocchi Perfectly?
Cooking gnocchi can be simple, but timing is key. Here’s how to do it right:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle boil. It’s important that the water is at a rolling boil.
- Add the gnocchi and watch closely. They’re done when they float to the surface, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
- Once floating, use a slotted spoon to take them out and drain in a colander. This keeps them from getting mushy.
Taking care not to overcrowd the pot can also help; cook them in batches if needed. This way, they cook evenly!
How to Make Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 package (about 1 lb) gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 slices bacon, diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp dried sage (or 8-10 fresh sage leaves)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of baking time, totaling around 35 minutes. It’s quick and straightforward, perfect for cozy weeknight dinners!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it’s ready for the delicious bake when you’re done preparing the ingredients.
2. Cook the Gnocchi:
Cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions. Typically, this means dropping them into a pot of boiling salted water and cooking until they float, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Drain the gnocchi and set them aside.
3. Cook the Bacon:
In a skillet over medium heat, add the diced bacon and cook until it’s crispy. Once done, remove the bacon from the pan and let it drain on paper towels. Make sure to reserve about 1 tablespoon of the rendered bacon fat in the pan for extra flavor!
4. Sauté the Aromatics:
Into the same skillet with the bacon fat, add the butter. Once melted, toss in the chopped onion and sauté until it turns translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
5. Make the Pumpkin Sauce:
Stir in the pumpkin puree, heavy cream, dried sage, salt, and pepper into the skillet. Cook everything together, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is warmed through and slightly thickened, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
6. Combine the Gnocchi:
Gently stir the cooked gnocchi into the pumpkin sauce, ensuring each piece is well coated. This is a great time to taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
7. Assemble the Bake:
Transfer the gnocchi mixture into a baking dish or an ovenproof skillet. Spread it out evenly, and then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses on top for cheesy goodness!
8. Bake to Perfection:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. You want the cheese to be melted, bubbly, and a bit golden brown on top. If you’d like a crispy finish, you can broil it for 1-2 minutes but keep a close watch to avoid burning!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once out of the oven, let the pumpkin gnocchi bake rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to settle before serving. Enjoy warm, and savor the comforting flavors of this autumn favorite!
This delightful bake combines fluffy gnocchi with creamy pumpkin, crispy bacon, and gooey cheese, making it a perfect dish to warm your heart and fill your tummy!
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Can I Use Store-Bought Gnocchi?
Yes, you can! Store-bought gnocchi is a convenient option, and it cooks just as well as homemade. Choose a brand you like and follow the cooking instructions on the package.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the bacon and consider adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor. You could also use smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness without the meat.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of cream to help refresh the sauce if it thickens.
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese?
Yes, feel free to get creative! Gouda, ricotta, or even a touch of blue cheese can provide different flavors. Just make sure the cheese you choose melts well for that gooey texture you want!
