Crispy Gnocchi and Sausage with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce

Crispy Gnocchi and Sausage with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce is a delightful dish perfect for cozy evenings. This recipe combines the comforting texture of gnocchi with a rich, creamy pumpkin sauce that’s bursting with flavor. With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, this dish is suitable for weeknight dinners or special gatherings alike. The standout feature is the crispy gnocchi that adds an exciting texture to every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in under 40 minutes.
• Flavorful Combination: The pairing of creamy pumpkin and savory sausage creates a mouthwatering experience that will impress your guests.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy this recipe as a main course or serve it as a hearty side at your next dinner party.
• Seasonal Ingredients: Embrace the flavors of fall with pumpkin and sage, making this dish perfect for autumn dining.
• Comfort Food: The crispy gnocchi combined with creamy sauce offers warmth and satisfaction on chilly nights.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your kitchen tools to ensure a smooth process. Having everything ready will make preparing Crispy Gnocchi and Sausage with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A spacious skillet allows for even cooking of the gnocchi and sausage, ensuring they brown perfectly.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware, helping you mix ingredients thoroughly.
• Measuring cups: Ensures accurate ingredient amounts for consistent flavor every time.

Ingredients

Packaged gnocchi turns crisp on the outside but stays pillowy inside in this quick, easy, and delicious Fall dinner. Canned pumpkin makes a beautiful and flavorful sauce that takes only a few minutes to cook.

For the Gnocchi

• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (divided, plus more as needed)
• 1 12 to 18 ounce package shelf-stable potato gnocchi

For the Sausage and Sauce

• 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 oven to 275ºF and set a rack in the middle. Pull apart any stuck-together gnocchi.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat, add half of the olive oil.
1. Once hot, add the sausage.
2. Use your wooden spoon to break it up while cooking until browned.

Step 3: Sauté Shallots and Garlic

Add shallots to the skillet with the cooked sausage.
1. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened.
2. Stir in minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes; cook for another minute.

Step 4: Deglaze with Vinegar

Carefully pour in the apple vinegar while scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
1. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.

Step 5: Add Pumpkin and Stock

Stir in canned pumpkin along with chicken or vegetable stock.
1. Mix well until fully combined.
2. Bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 6: Finish with Creamy Elements

Reduce heat to low; stir in mascarpone cheese until melted through.
1. Season with salt and pepper according to taste.

Step 7: Crisp Up Gnocchi

In another skillet, heat remaining olive oil over medium-high heat.
1. Add gnocchi in batches, frying until golden brown on each side.

Step 8: Combine Everything

Once gnocchi is crispy, combine them into the sauce mixture in the first skillet.
Stir gently to coat all gnocchi evenly in sauce before serving hot topped with grated cheese.

Enjoy your Crispy Gnocchi and Sausage with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce!

How to Serve Crispy Gnocchi and Sausage with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce

Serving Crispy Gnocchi and Sausage with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce can elevate your dining experience. Here are some creative ideas to enhance this delicious dish.

Pair with Fresh Greens

• A light salad with arugula or spinach adds a refreshing crunch and balances the rich flavors of the sauce.

Accompany with Crusty Bread

• Serve warm, crusty bread on the side for dipping into the creamy pumpkin sauce, making each bite even more satisfying.

Garnish with Extra Sage

• Top your dish with additional crispy sage leaves for an aromatic touch that complements the pumpkin beautifully.

Add a Dash of Chili Oil

• Drizzling chili oil over your serving adds a spicy kick, enhancing the dish’s overall flavor profile.

How to Perfect Crispy Gnocchi and Sausage with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce

To achieve the best results when making this dish, consider these helpful tips that will ensure your gnocchi is crispy and flavorful.

• Use high-quality gnocchi: Choosing a good brand or making homemade gnocchi can significantly enhance texture and taste.
• Sauté sausages well: Ensure sausages are browned evenly for maximum flavor. This step adds depth to your sauce.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cooking in batches allows for better crispiness of the gnocchi. Overcrowding traps steam and makes them soggy.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your preference; adding nutmeg or cinnamon can complement the pumpkin nicely.
• Keep it warm: If serving later, keep your dish warm in a low oven to maintain its temperature without cooking it further.

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

Enhancing your meal can be as simple as choosing the right side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Roasted Broccoli
   A simple side that brings out earthy flavors; roast broccoli with garlic until tender for a tasty accompaniment.
2. Mixed Green Salad
   Combine various greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a fresh contrast to the richness of the main dish.
3. Grilled Asparagus
   Lightly grilled asparagus adds a smoky note while being quick to prepare; drizzle with lemon juice before serving.
4. Buttery Corn on the Cob
   Sweet corn pairs well with pumpkin flavors; serve it fresh off the grill or boiled with a pat of butter.
5. Creamy Polenta
   A comforting addition that absorbs sauces beautifully; make it creamy for added richness alongside your gnocchi.
6. Roasted Carrots
   Sweet roasted carrots bring color and natural sweetness, enhancing the overall dining experience while being easy to prepare.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can significantly enhance your cooking experience. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the sage: Fresh sage adds depth to the dish. Don’t skip it; instead, use both whole leaves and chopped sage for a more robust flavor.
• Not preheating the oven: Failing to preheat can lead to uneven cooking. Always ensure your oven is at the right temperature before baking.
• Overcrowding the pan: Placing too many gnocchi in the pan will steam them instead of crisping them. Cook in batches to achieve that perfect texture.
• Ignoring seasoning: Seasoning is crucial for flavor. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper to your liking for a well-balanced dish.
• Using low-quality cheese: The choice of cheese impacts creaminess. Opt for high-quality mascarpone or Parmesan for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Crispy Gnocchi and Sausage with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Divide into portions for easy meal prep.

Reheating Crispy Gnocchi and Sausage with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat until warm (about 20 minutes).
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1 minute until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this recipe:

How do I make Crispy Gnocchi and Sausage with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce vegetarian?

You can substitute sausage with plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian version.

Can I use other types of pasta instead of gnocchi?

Yes, while gnocchi is ideal, you can use other pasta shapes like farfalle or penne if preferred.

What can I substitute for mascarpone cheese?

Cream cheese or heavy cream works well as an alternative if mascarpone isn’t available.

How can I customize the creamy pumpkin sauce?

Feel free to add spices such as nutmeg or cinnamon for extra warmth, or incorporate spinach or kale for added nutrition.

Final Thoughts

Crispy Gnocchi and Sausage with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors that perfectly captures the essence of fall. It’s versatile enough to allow customization based on personal preferences or dietary needs. Try it out and enjoy this cozy meal any night of the week!

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Crispy Gnocchi and Turkey Sausage with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Crispy Gnocchi and Sausage with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce is the ultimate comfort food for any cozy evening. This delightful dish features perfectly crispy gnocchi that contrast beautifully with a rich, creamy pumpkin sauce, making it both satisfying and flavorful. With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this delicious meal in less than 40 minutes. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, the dish embodies seasonal flavors while being versatile enough to customize based on your preferences. Embrace autumn dining with every bite of this heartwarming recipe!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (divided, plus more as needed)
• 1 12 to 18 ounce package shelf-stable potato gnocchi
• 1 pound hot or sweet Italian turkey 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 apple cider vinegar
• 2 cups (15oz can) canned pumpkin (unsweetened)
• 1 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable stock
• 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese (or cream cheese)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 275ºF.
2. In a large skillet, heat half the olive oil over medium heat and cook the turkey sausage until browned.
3. Add chopped shallots; sauté until softened. Stir in garlic and red pepper flakes.
4. Deglaze with apple cider vinegar and let simmer.
5. Stir in canned pumpkin and stock; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat, mix in mascarpone until melted, and season with salt and pepper.
7. In another skillet, heat remaining oil; fry gnocchi in batches until crispy on both sides.
8. Combine crispy gnocchi with the pumpkin sauce; serve hot topped with grated cheese.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 50mg