Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake Recipe – Creamy Fall Casserole with Cheese & Sage
This Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake is the ultimate fall comfort food—pillowy gnocchi baked in a velvety pumpkin cream sauce, layered with gooey cheese and fragrant herbs. It’s rich, savory, and perfectly cozy for chilly nights. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving a seasonal twist on pasta night, this one-dish wonder delivers bold flavor and creamy texture in every bite. Serve with a crisp salad or roasted veggies for a complete autumn meal.
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Medium pot
- 9x13-inch baking dish (ceramic or glass preferred)
- Mixing spoon
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1 lb gnocchi (potato or pumpkin)
- 1 tbsp butter or olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- ½ cup heavy cream or whole milk
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
- ¼ tsp chili flakes (optional)
- 1 tsp fresh thyme
- 1 tsp fresh sage, chopped
- ½ cup grated Parmesan
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella (or blend of Gruyère, goat cheese, pizza mix)
- Optional: 1 cup spinach, mushrooms, cooked sausage, or toasted pecans
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook gnocchi according to package or homemade instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, sauté garlic and onion in butter or olive oil until soft and fragrant.
- Stir in pumpkin puree, cream, herbs, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and chili flakes. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until thickened.
- Mix in Parmesan and taste sauce; adjust seasoning if needed.
- Combine gnocchi and sauce in a greased baking dish.
- Top with shredded cheese and any optional add-ins.
- Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Broil for 2–3 minutes for a crisp cheese crust.
- Let rest for 5 minutes, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve warm.
Notes
- Use full-fat dairy for the richest flavor and texture.
- Homemade gnocchi works beautifully—just boil briefly before baking.
- For gluten-free: use certified gluten-free gnocchi and check all labels.
- Add a splash of cream when reheating to restore moisture.
- A pinch of nutmeg enhances the pumpkin’s natural sweetness.