Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake

Why Make This Recipe

Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake is a warming and comforting dish that combines the soft texture of gnocchi with the rich flavors of pumpkin and cheese. It’s perfect for cozy nights when you want something hearty yet simple to prepare. This recipe brings together seasonal ingredients for a delicious meal that feels special without requiring a lot of effort.

How to Make Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake

Ingredients:

• 350g pumpkin, peeled and diced into bite-sized cubes
• 500g gnocchi
• 50g blue cheese or soft goat’s cheese
• 6g sage leaves
• 400ml vegetable stock
• ¼ cup single dairy cream
• 50g mozzarella or cheddar cheese
• 30g pecans

Directions:

Air Fryer Instructions:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (356°F).
2. Toss the diced pumpkin with vegetable stock and sage leaves in a bowl until well-coated.
3. Place the pumpkin mixture in the air fryer basket and cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway, until tender.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked pumpkin, gnocchi, cream, and cheese. Mix gently to combine.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with pecans and extra cheese.
6. Air fry for another 10-15 minutes until the top is golden and crispy.

Oven Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).
2. Toss the diced pumpkin with vegetable stock and sage leaves in a bowl.
3. Spread the pumpkin mixture evenly in a baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the pumpkin is tender.
4. Boil the gnocchi according to package instructions, then drain.
5. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pumpkin, gnocchi, cream, and cheese. Mix gently to combine.
6. Top with pecans and additional cheese, then bake for another 15-20 minutes until golden.

How to Serve Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake

Serve the Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake hot from the oven or air fryer. It makes an excellent main dish and pairs well with a light salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. You can garnish it with fresh sage or additional cheese for extra flavor.

How to Store Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake

If you have leftovers, let the dish cool completely before storing. Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to three days. You can also freeze it for up to a month; just reheat thoroughly before serving.

Tips to Make Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake

• Choose ripe pumpkin for sweeter flavor.
• For a bit of crunch, lightly toast the pecans before adding them to the bake.
• If you prefer a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to your mixture.

Variation

You can easily customize this recipe by adding cooked sausage or roasted vegetables for more protein and flavor. Substitute the cheese according to your preference, or use a plant-based cheese to make it dairy-free.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Yes, store-bought gnocchi works perfectly! Just follow the cooking instructions on the package before mixing it with the other ingredients.

2. How can I make this dish vegan?

To make this recipe vegan, use vegan gnocchi, dairy-free cream, and replace the cheese with a plant-based alternative.

3. Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare it a day ahead. Just assemble the recipe without baking, cover it, and store it in the fridge. When ready to eat, bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.