As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, there’s nothing like the aroma of a comforting dish wafting through the kitchen. I recently whipped up a batch of Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Bacon, and let me tell you, it felt like autumn on a plate. This one-pan meal is not only quick to prepare—ready in under 30 minutes—but it also delivers all the cozy vibes you crave with its rich pumpkin-cream sauce and crispy bacon. Plus, if you’re looking for a vegetarian twist, you can easily omit the bacon, making it a versatile option for any dinner table. Ready to embrace fall flavors? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe together!
Why is this gnocchi so special?
Comforting and cozy, this Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Bacon embodies the flavors of fall. Quick to prepare, it’s ready in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights. One-pan ease means less cleanup, allowing you to savor each bite without the hassle. Versatile too! It easily adapts to a vegetarian version, making it ideal for all guests. Finally, deliciously creamy, the velvety sauce envelops tender gnocchi, while crispy bacon adds a savory crunch. Enjoy with a side salad for the ultimate autumn feast!
Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Bacon Ingredients
• The essential components for a comforting dish.
For the Sauce
- Canned Pumpkin – The star ingredient that brings smoothness and earthy flavor; ensure it’s pure pumpkin, not pie filling.
- Reduced-Fat Cream Cheese – Helps create a silky sauce; must be softened to avoid lumps—substitute with full-fat cream cheese if desired.
- Reduced-Fat Milk – Adds creaminess to the sauce; any milk or non-dairy alternative can work.
- Garlic – Infuses aromatic flavor; enhances overall taste in the dish.
- Chopped Onion – Offers sweetness and depth to the sauce base.
- Ground Black Pepper – Adds a hint of heat; adjust to your taste preference.
- Fresh Thyme – Provides herbal freshness; can substitute with dried thyme but use less, as it’s more concentrated.
For Cooking
- Bacon – Delivers a smoky flavor to balance the richness of the sauce; can be substituted with smoked turkey or omitted for a vegetarian option.
- Shelf-Stable Gnocchi – Gives a pillowy texture that holds up well when sautéed; fresh gnocchi can be used, just avoid pan-crisping.
- Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – Used for sautéing; contributes healthy fats to the dish.
For Garnishing
- Grated Parmesan Cheese – Brings umami and saltiness to the dish; can be swapped with nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
Now that you have all the ingredients for this Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Bacon, you’re one step closer to creating this cozy fall feast!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Bacon
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
In a large skillet over medium heat, add chopped bacon and cook until it becomes crispy, which should take about 5–7 minutes. Stir occasionally for even cooking, and once it’s nicely browned, remove the bacon from the pan and set it aside, leaving the delicious drippings behind to infuse the flavors into your Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Bacon.
Step 2: Sauté the Gnocchi
With the bacon drippings still in the skillet, add 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil, then gently toss in the shelf-stable gnocchi. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until the gnocchi turns golden and slightly crispy, stirring regularly to ensure an even sear. Once done, remove the gnocchi from the pan and set aside, allowing that savory goodness to linger in the skillet.
Step 3: Cook the Onions and Garlic
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté over medium heat for about 5 minutes, or until the onions soften and become translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and fresh thyme, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant. This aromatic base is key for your Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Bacon, enhancing the overall depth of flavor.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
Whisk in the reduced-fat milk, reduced-fat cream cheese, and unseasoned canned pumpkin into the onion and garlic mixture. Continue stirring for about 3–4 minutes until the sauce is smooth and creamy, with no lumps remaining. The lovely orange hue of the pumpkin adds a beautiful color to your sauce, inviting a comforting vibe to your one-pan meal.
Step 5: Combine the Gnocchi and Bacon
Return the sautéed gnocchi and crispy bacon back to the skillet, tossing everything gently to coat thoroughly in that luscious sauce. Allow the dish to heat through for a couple of minutes, ensuring each piece of gnocchi is enveloped in the creamy goodness. You’ll know it’s ready when everything is warmed and starts to bubble slightly.
Step 6: Finish with Parmesan
Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts into the sauce for that extra umami bite. Taste your Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Bacon and adjust the seasoning with more ground black pepper if desired. The cheese not only enhances flavor but also contributes a wonderful richness to the dish.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Transfer theCreamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Bacon to serving plates, garnishing with additional thyme and Parmesan cheese as desired. This beautiful presentation not only enhances the visual appeal but also invites you to dive into the cozy autumn flavors that await in every bite of this comforting dish.
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Bacon
- Fridge: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the gnocchi and sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Gently reheat on medium-low heat, adding a little milk or broth to help loosen the sauce. Stir frequently until heated through.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the sauce and gnocchi ahead of time; store separately. Combine and heat before serving for a quick fall meal anytime!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Bacon ahead of time is a fantastic way to save time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the pumpkin-cream sauce and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, keeping the flavors vibrant and fresh. Simply cook the bacon and set it aside, then whisk together the milk, cream cheese, pumpkin, onions, garlic, and spices to create that silky sauce. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the sauce gently on the stovetop and toss in the sautéed gnocchi and bacon. If the sauce thickens, add a splash of milk to loosen it. This way, you’ll enjoy a comforting and delicious meal with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Bacon
Cozying up with Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Bacon is delightful, but enhancing your meal with the right accompaniments takes it to another level.
- Arugula Salad: A light salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance to the creamy richness.
- Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread is perfect for scooping up the luscious pumpkin sauce, adding a satisfying crunch to every bite.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The slight bitterness of roasted Brussels sprouts complements the sweet pumpkin beautifully, creating a harmonious flavor profile.
- Herb-Infused Rice: Fluffy rice infused with herbs provides a hearty base that absorbs the creamy sauce, enhancing each mouthful’s texture.
- Crispy Sage Chips: These add a delightful crunch and aromatic herbal notes that elevate the overall experience of your meal.
- Warm Apple Cider: Sipping on a mug of warm apple cider brings a classic autumn touch to the dinner table, embodying the essence of fall.
- Pumpkin Spice Muffins: A sweet finish, these muffins echo the flavors of your main dish while offering a comforting dessert to wrap up the meal.
- Roasted Butternut Squash: Sweet and roasted to perfection, it brings another layer of autumn warmth, perfectly matching your creamy gnocchi.
- Simple Cheesecake: A light cheesecake topped with a hint of caramel or raspberry provides a rich yet balanced dessert choice.
- Chardonnay Wine: A glass of chilled Chardonnay harmonizes with the dish’s rich flavors, making it an elegant pairing for your cozy autumn feast.
Expert Tips for Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Bacon
- Softening Cream Cheese: Always soften cream cheese before mixing to prevent lumps in the sauce. Cube it beforehand to help it blend more easily!
- Vegetarian Swap: For a vegetarian adaptation, simply replace bacon with an additional tablespoon or two of olive oil. It will still be full of flavor!
- Watch Your Sauce: If the sauce thickens too much, gradually whisk in more milk or vegetable broth to achieve your desired creaminess without losing flavor.
- Gentle Handling: When using fresh gnocchi, handle them gently to prevent them from disintegrating during cooking; avoid crisping them first.
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with different herbs like sage or rosemary for varied flavors in your Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Bacon, making each meal unique!
Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Bacon Variations
Feel free to mix and match flavors and ingredients to make this dish your own! The comforting aroma alone is sure to inspire creativity in the kitchen.
- Vegetarian Delight: Omit bacon and substitute with sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a hearty, meatless meal that won’t skimp on flavor.
- Add Some Heat: Introduce a pinch of red pepper flakes or drizzle with sriracha for a spicy kick. The heat pairs beautifully with the creamy pumpkin sauce!
- Herb Variation: Try different herbs like sage or rosemary to switch up the flavor profile. Fresh herbs add an aromatic touch that complements the dish well.
- Nutty Twist: Stir in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts before serving to add a satisfying crunch and a nutty flavor that enhances the overall experience.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Substitute grated Parmesan with a mix of cheddar and gouda for a richer, nuttier flavor that pairs perfectly with pumpkin.
- Extra Creamy: For an indulgent twist, swap a portion of reduced-fat milk with cream or half-and-half, creating an extra silky texture.
- Veggie Boost: Toss in some roasted butternut squash or sautéed zucchini to pack in more veggies and flavor. It’s a delicious way to embrace autumn produce!
- Savory Swap: Use crumbled feta cheese instead of Parmesan for a tangy kick that complements the pumpkin beautifully, especially if you enjoy a Mediterranean flair.
If you’re looking for another comforting recipe, try my Creamy Mushroom Chicken Melts for a delightful twist, or perhaps make a batch of my Chocolate Pumpkin Butter for a sweet treat afterward!
Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Bacon Recipe FAQs
What type of pumpkin should I use for this recipe?
Make sure to use unseasoned canned pumpkin, as it should be pure pumpkin without any added sugar or spices. This ensures that your Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Bacon has the natural pumpkin flavor shining through rather than an overly sweet pie filling.
How should I store any leftovers?
Store any cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of milk to help loosen the sauce and keep it creamy.
Can I freeze Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Bacon?
Absolutely! You can freeze the gnocchi and sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a little milk or broth to help restore the sauce’s creaminess.
What can I do if the sauce thickens too much?
If you find that your sauce has thickened more than you’d like, don’t worry! Simply whisk in a bit more milk or vegetable broth, a few tablespoons at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Keep stirring and heating gently to combine everything perfectly.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes! For a vegetarian option, simply omit the bacon and use an extra tablespoon or two of olive oil for sautéing. You’ll still enjoy the delightful flavors without sacrificing taste. I recommend checking your other ingredients like cheese and broth to ensure they are also vegetarian-friendly.
Can I use fresh gnocchi instead of shelf-stable?
Yes, you can certainly use fresh gnocchi! Just be cautious while cooking; avoid crisping them in the pan first. Instead, cook them gently in the sauce to prevent them from falling apart and losing their texture.
Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Bacon for a Cozy Fall Feast
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add chopped bacon and cook until it becomes crispy, about 5–7 minutes.
- With the bacon drippings still in the skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then toss in the gnocchi. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until golden and slightly crispy.
- Add chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and fresh thyme, cooking for an additional minute.
- Whisk in the milk, cream cheese, and pumpkin into the onion and garlic mixture. Stir for 3–4 minutes until smooth.
- Return the sautéed gnocchi and crispy bacon to the skillet, tossing to coat thoroughly in the sauce. Heat through for a couple of minutes.
- Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts into the sauce. Adjust seasoning if desired.
- Transfer the dish to serving plates, garnishing with additional thyme and Parmesan cheese.
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