Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Spinach and Sausage

Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Spinach and Sausage (30-Minute, One-Pan) is a cozy dish that brings warmth to your dinner table, especially during the fall season. Imagine a creamy sauce blanketing tender gnocchi, the richness of pumpkin blending perfectly with savory sausage and fresh spinach. It’s not just comforting; it’s also quick to whip up! In just 30 minutes, you can create a satisfying meal that uses ingredients you likely have on hand. Plus, the one-pan aspect means less fuss and more time to enjoy your creation.

As the pumpkin and herbs infuse the dish with seasonal flavors, you’ll find yourself enveloped in the spirit of autumn with every bite. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or simply treating yourself, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite. So, let’s get started on this delightful journey of making Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Spinach and Sausage (30-Minute, One-Pan)!

Why This Recipe Works

Quick and Easy Preparation

This dish is ideal for those busy evenings when time seems to slip through your fingers. With just 30 minutes in the kitchen, you can serve a comforting meal packed with flavor. The best part? You don’t need any complicated techniques. This recipe utilizes simple pantry staples, making it not only quick to prepare but also economical.

One-Pan Wonder

Who doesn’t love a meal that minimizes cleanup? With only one pan required, you can focus on cooking and enjoying your food instead of washing a mountain of dishes later. As you sauté, simmer, and stir everything together, the flavors meld beautifully, creating a rich and satisfying dish without the hassle of multiple cooking pots.

Seasonal Flavors

Autumn is here, and what better way to celebrate than with the sweet, creamy taste of pumpkin? This recipe captures the essence of the season with its combination of pumpkin purée and fresh herbs like sage and thyme. It’s a perfect way to incorporate those warm, seasonal flavors that evoke feelings of comfort and nostalgia.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Spinach and Sausage (30-Minute, One-Pan)

Comfort Food

There’s something incredibly comforting about a hearty meal. Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Spinach and Sausage (30-Minute, One-Pan) not only fills your stomach but also warms your heart. Each bowl is like a cozy hug, making it perfect for chilly nights or any time you need a little extra comfort.

Nutrient-Rich Ingredients

Filled with nutrient-rich ingredients, this dish scores high on the wellness scale. Pumpkin is not just delicious; it’s packed with vitamins A and C. Spinach provides essential nutrients like iron and folate. With the addition of sausage, you’re also getting protein, making this dish satisfying on multiple levels.

Versatile Dish

Whether you enjoy it as a main course or as a side dish, this recipe caters to everyone’s tastes. It appeals to all ages, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Its versatility means you can serve it on any occasion, and it fits right in.

Ingredients for Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Spinach and Sausage

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 12 oz Italian sausage links (casings removed)
• 10 oz potato gnocchi
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ⅓ cup chicken broth
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 oz fresh spinach
• 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme
• Salt and coarsely ground black pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

Heat Olive Oil and Sauté Sausage

Begin by grabbing a large, heavy-bottomed skillet. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. While the oil warms, remove the sausage from its casings and slice it into bite-sized pieces. Add the sausage to the skillet, keeping it undisturbed for about 4 minutes. Flip the pieces and let them brown for another 2 minutes. This step helps develop a lovely crust. Once done, drain any excess fat to keep your dish from being greasy.

Combine Gnocchi with Cream and Broth

Next, it’s time for the gnocchi! In the same skillet with the cooked sausage, toss in the uncooked potato gnocchi, followed by 1 cup of heavy cream and ⅓ cup of chicken broth. Increase the heat, bringing the mixture to a boil while stirring gently. Once bubbling, cover the skillet and let the gnocchi simmer for approximately 5 minutes. This will allow them to become tender and absorb flavors.

Add Pumpkin and Spinach

Now’s the moment to add even more richness. Stir in 1 cup of pumpkin purée along with the minced garlic. Then, toss in the fresh spinach. Bring everything back to a boil. After, reduce the heat to low-medium. Let the dish cook for another 3 minutes, allowing the spinach to wilt and the sauce to thicken beautifully.

Season and Serve

When the sauce reaches your desired thickness, remove the skillet from heat. Mix in half of the fresh sage and thyme, then season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. When serving, remember to garnish with the remaining herbs for an added burst of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this dish with crusty bread, perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce.
• A crisp salad alongside adds freshness, balancing the richness of the gnocchi perfectly.

Tips for Success

• Use fresh herbs to really enhance the flavor.
• Adjust the amount of salt according to the type of sausage you used; some are saltier than others.

Variations

• For a lighter twist, swap out the Italian sausage for turkey sausage.
• Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for additional texture and flavor.

Storage Tips

• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• To reheat, do it gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream to maintain that lovely creamy texture.

Pairing Ideas

• Enjoy a glass of white wine, like Chardonnay, which pairs beautifully with this dish.
• A hearty fall-inspired salad with apples and walnuts also complements the flavors wonderfully.

FAQs

Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Yes! Just add a few additional minutes to the cooking time.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Unfortunately, it’s not gluten-free due to the gnocchi, but you can find gluten-free options.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just skip the sausage and substitute it with mushrooms or a plant-based protein.

How can I thicken the sauce further?
Allow the dish to simmer longer, or stir in a bit more pumpkin purée.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, but it’s best to freeze the gnocchi separately; the sauce may not hold up as well when thawed.

Enjoy the cozy flavors of fall with this easy and delicious Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Spinach and Sausage (30-Minute, One-Pan). This is one dish you’ll be eager to share with loved ones, creating instant comfort around the table.

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