As the crisp autumn air settles in, my kitchen transforms into a cozy haven filled with the rich, inviting aroma of fall flavors. One dish that has quickly become my go-to comfort for this season is Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Bacon. It effortlessly combines soft, pillowy gnocchi with a velvety pumpkin-cream sauce, accented perfectly by smoky bites of bacon and fresh thyme. Not only is this dish a delightful nod to the cooler months, but it also comes together in just under 30 minutes, making it an ideal one-pan meal for busy evenings. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging in a quiet night in, this recipe is sure to warm both your soul and your taste buds. Curious how to whip up this autumn delight? Let’s dive into the details!
Why is this Pumpkin Gnocchi a Must-Try?
Comforting Delight: This Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Bacon isn’t just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl, bursting with autumn flavors.
Quick and Easy: With a prep time of under 30 minutes, busy chefs can whip up this one-pan wonder without breaking a sweat.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings, friends and family will rave about this rich, creamy dish that brings the essence of fall to your table.
Versatile Substitutions: Want to keep it vegetarian? Simply swap the bacon for sautéed mushrooms or spinach, making it adaptable to your needs.
Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of pumpkin, cream cheese, and smoky bacon creates a luscious sauce that clings to the gnocchi beautifully. Enjoy more cozy meals by checking out my Baked Pumpkin Goat recipe or the delightful Tortellini Chicken Broccoli for variety!
Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi Ingredients
• The essential components for your comforting dish!
For the Dish
- Bacon – Adds smokiness and richness; substitute with turkey bacon for a leaner option.
- Shelf-Stable Gnocchi – Provides a pillowy texture and crisps nicely; if using fresh gnocchi, handle with care.
- Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – Used for sautéing; feel free to swap with any neutral oil you have on hand.
- Onion – Brings sweetness and depth; yellow or sweet onions are perfect choices for this recipe.
- Garlic – Enhances flavor; always use freshly minced for the best taste.
- Fresh Thyme – Delivers aromatic herbal notes; dried thyme can work, but use half the amount.
- Reduced-Fat Milk – Creates creaminess without too much heaviness; switch to whole milk for a richer sauce.
- Reduced-Fat Cream Cheese – Adds creaminess and smooth texture; make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
- Unseasoned Canned Pumpkin – The star of your Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Bacon; use pure pumpkin puree, not pie filling.
- Ground Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to your taste preferences.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese – Adds a nutty, salty flavor; feel free to substitute with Pecorino Romano for a twist.
Each bite is a testament to the comforting flavors of fall, creating a dish that will surely become part of your culinary repertoire!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Bacon
Step 1: Cook Bacon
In a large skillet, set over medium heat, add chopped bacon. Cook for about 5–7 minutes until the bacon is crispy and golden brown. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once done, remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside, leaving the drippings in the pan for the next steps.
Step 2: Sauté Gnocchi
Using the same skillet, add a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil to the bacon drippings over medium-high heat. Add the shelf-stable gnocchi and sauté for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden and slightly crispy on the outside. Once done, remove the gnocchi from the skillet and set them aside with the bacon.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently until softened and translucent. Add minced garlic and fresh thyme, cooking for an additional minute. The aromas will fill your kitchen, creating a fragrant base for your creamy pumpkin sauce.
Step 4: Make Sauce
Whisk in the reduced-fat milk and softened cream cheese to the onion mixture, blending well. Add the unseasoned canned pumpkin along with ground black pepper. Stir everything together and let the sauce simmer for 3–4 minutes over medium heat, until it becomes smooth and creamy with a lovely pastel orange hue.
Step 5: Combine
Return the cooked gnocchi and bacon to the sauce in the skillet. Gently toss everything together, ensuring the gnocchi are well coated in the creamy pumpkin sauce and warmed through, about 2 minutes. This will help the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 6: Finish
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with more black pepper if desired. Serve hot in shallow bowls, garnished with extra thyme and a sprinkle of Parmesan for a delightful finish.
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi
Fridge: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Gently reheat in a skillet with a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.
Freezer: If you want to freeze, allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat on low heat in a skillet, adding a little milk to revive the creamy consistency of your Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Bacon.
Avoid Overcooking: Be mindful to avoid overcooking when reheating, as this can lead to mushy gnocchi. A gentle, slow approach helps retain that delightful texture!
What to Serve With Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Bacon?
Elevate your cozy meal experience by pairing your creamy dish with complementary sides and drinks that enhance its autumn flavors.
- Arugula Salad: A fresh arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette adds a peppery bite and bright acidity that cuts through the richness.
- Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread provides a crunchy contrast and is perfect for mopping up any leftover creamy sauce on your plate.
- Sautéed Greens: Lightly sautéed kale or spinach seasoned with garlic offers a nutritious green element that balances the dish’s warmth and richness.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts drizzled with balsamic glaze add a nutty flavor while providing a delightful textural contrast to the gnocchi.
For a heartwarming drink, serve with a Chardonnay or Pumpkin Spice Latte. The crisp notes of the wine enhance the creamy sauce, while the latte echoes the seasonal pumpkin flavors.
Complete your meal with a Warm Apple Crisp for dessert. Its warm, spiced apples and crunchy topping will surely round out your comforting autumn dining experience!
Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Bacon Variations
Feel free to personalize your dish and make it uniquely yours with these delightful twists and substitutions!
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Vegetarian Delight: Replace bacon with sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a savory, meat-free option that still packs a flavor punch.
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Butternut Squash Swap: Try using butternut squash puree instead of pumpkin for a subtly sweet and creamy variation that’s equally comforting.
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Herb Twists: Use fresh sage or rosemary in place of thyme for a different aromatic experience that adds depth. The fragrance will transport you straight to a cozy autumn garden.
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Cheesy Goodness: Add a dollop of ricotta cheese on top before serving for an extra creaminess and a delightful flavor boost.
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Nutty Flavor: Incorporate a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts to introduce a satisfying crunch and an earthy flavor contrast with the creamy sauce.
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Heat It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you love a little heat in your meal. This twist provides a warming kick that complements the pumpkin’s sweetness beautifully.
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Low-Carb Version: Substitute gnocchi with cauliflower gnocchi for a lower-carb alternative that still satisfies those cravings while keeping things light.
Elevate your culinary experience further by exploring other cozy recipes like Pumpkin Cupcakes Maple or the creamy goodness of Crack Chicken Gnocchi. There’s a world of flavors to discover!
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Bacon are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cook the bacon and sauté the gnocchi up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator to maintain their texture. Additionally, prepare the creamy pumpkin sauce, and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce in a skillet, adding a splash of milk if needed for creaminess. Then, combine the cooked gnocchi and bacon, tossing everything until warmed through. This approach saves you valuable time on busy evenings while ensuring that your dish remains just as delicious!
Expert Tips for Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi
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Soften Cream Cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. This prevents lumps in the sauce and creates a smooth texture.
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Choose Gnocchi Wisely: For the best results, opt for shelf-stable gnocchi that cooks quickly. Fresh gnocchi may require more careful handling to avoid overcooking.
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Adjust Sauce Consistency: If your sauce thickens too much, don’t fret! Just whisk in a splash of milk to achieve your desired creamy consistency.
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Herb Substitutions: Fresh thyme shines in this Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Bacon, but if you’re out, use dried thyme—just cut the amount in half for balanced flavor.
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Leftover Love: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet, adding a splash of milk to keep the creaminess intact.
Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Bacon Recipe FAQs
What type of gnocchi should I use for the best results?
I recommend using shelf-stable gnocchi for the best quick-cooking texture. They crisp beautifully and require less handling than fresh gnocchi, which can be delicate. If you decide to use fresh gnocchi, be very gentle while cooking to prevent them from becoming mushy.
How should I store leftovers of Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Bacon?
Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk to help maintain the creamy consistency.
Can I freeze Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Bacon?
Absolutely! After letting the dish cool completely, transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat slowly in a skillet with a bit of milk.
What if my sauce turns out too thick?
If your sauce is thicker than desired, don’t worry! Simply whisk in a splash of milk—start with a tablespoon—and stir until you reach your preferred creamy consistency. This is a fantastic way to salvage the sauce without compromising flavor.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Great question! This recipe can be tailored to be vegetarian by omitting the bacon and sautéing mushrooms or spinach instead. Also, check labels on the cream cheese and gnocchi to ensure there are no allergens, especially if you’re serving the dish to guests with dietary restrictions.
What’s the best way to ensure my cream cheese is smooth when making the sauce?
To prevent lumps in your sauce, make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature before incorporating it. This step is essential for achieving that velvety texture. If you forget to soften it, you can microwave it for about 15 seconds to soften it gently!
Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Bacon for Cozy Autumn Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet, set over medium heat, add chopped bacon. Cook for about 5–7 minutes until the bacon is crispy and golden brown. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once done, remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside, leaving the drippings in the pan for the next steps.
- Using the same skillet, add a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil to the bacon drippings over medium-high heat. Add the shelf-stable gnocchi and sauté for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden and slightly crispy on the outside. Once done, remove the gnocchi from the skillet and set them aside with the bacon.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently until softened and translucent. Add minced garlic and fresh thyme, cooking for an additional minute.
- Whisk in the reduced-fat milk and softened cream cheese to the onion mixture, blending well. Add the unseasoned canned pumpkin along with ground black pepper. Stir everything together and let the sauce simmer for 3–4 minutes over medium heat, until it becomes smooth and creamy with a lovely pastel orange hue.
- Return the cooked gnocchi and bacon to the sauce in the skillet. Gently toss everything together, ensuring the gnocchi are well coated in the creamy pumpkin sauce and warmed through, about 2 minutes.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with more black pepper if desired. Serve hot in shallow bowls, garnished with extra thyme and a sprinkle of Parmesan for a delightful finish.
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