If you’re craving a dish that wraps you in cozy autumnal warmth with every bite, then this Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake with Blue Cheese, Pecans, and Crispy Sage Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Imagine fluffy gnocchi coated in a creamy, luscious blend of pumpkin and soft cheese, topped with crunchy pecans and the irresistible aroma of crisp sage leaves. It’s the ultimate harmony of textures and flavors, perfect for sharing with loved ones on a chilly evening or just treating yourself to something truly comforting.

A white bowl holds a dish with about four layers visible: the base layer is soft, golden gnocchi with a light, smooth texture; above that are chunks of browned, crispy orange sweet potato pieces; scattered on top are dark green, slightly wrinkled fried sage leaves; and mixed throughout are small, shiny brown pecan halves adding crunch. The dish is lightly sprinkled with coarse black pepper and has a slight shine from melted cheese or sauce. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface, with a white cloth and a silver fork nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, fresh ingredients are what make this dish sing. Each component plays a vital role, from the sweet, tender pumpkin to the sharp blue cheese, creating a balance of creamy, nutty, and crispy elements that’s absolutely delightful.

Pumpkin (350g): Peeled and diced into bite-sized cubes for the perfect tender texture.
Gnocchi (500g): Soft, pillowy dumplings that soak up all the rich flavors beautifully.
Blue cheese or soft goat’s cheese (50g): Adds a tangy creaminess that’s the heart of this dish.
Sage leaves (6g): Crispy fried for a fragrant, herbaceous crunch on top.
Vegetable stock (400ml): Infuses the gnocchi and pumpkin with depth and moisture.
Single dairy cream (1/4 cup): Creates a luscious, velvety sauce that ties everything together.
Mozzarella or cheddar cheese (50g): Melts beautifully, lending gooey cheesiness and a golden crust.
Pecans (30g): Provide a delightful nutty crunch, contrasting the softer elements perfectly.

How to Make Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake with Blue Cheese, Pecans, and Crispy Sage Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Roast the Pumpkin

Start by peeling and dicing your pumpkin into roughly 2cm cubes. This size ensures the pumpkin cooks evenly and becomes tender without turning mushy. Whether you’re roasting in the oven or using an air fryer, combining the pumpkin with some vegetable stock, salt, and pepper gently steams and flavors it before layering the dish.

Step 2: Add Gnocchi and Cheese

Once the pumpkin begins to soften, add the gnocchi around the cubes, crumbling the blue or goat’s cheese on top. Pour in the cream and the remaining vegetable stock, then stir everything gently to combine flavors without breaking up the gnocchi. This mixture will become the rich, creamy heart of your bake.

Step 3: Bake Until Bubbling and Golden

Roast at a high temperature so the gnocchi cooks fully and the cream thickens into a bubbling, velvety sauce. Towards the end, sprinkle on your mozzarella or cheddar along with the pecans, allowing the cheeses to melt and the pecans to toast, adding irresistible golden color and crunch.

Step 4: Crispy Sage Finish

Last but certainly not least, toss the sage leaves in a little oil and scatter them on top before a quick roast or air fry to crisp them up. The herbal fragrance and crispy texture contrast fantastically with the creamy gnocchi, rounding out this dish perfectly.

How to Serve Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake with Blue Cheese, Pecans, and Crispy Sage Recipe

Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake with Blue Cheese, Pecans, and Crispy Sage Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Fresh sage leaves crispy to perfection are a must. You can also add a drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of extra toasted pecans for that finishing touch. A little cracked black pepper adds a subtle kick against the creamy, cheesy base.

Side Dishes

This bake is a wonderful centerpiece, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or sautéed seasonal greens cuts through the richness beautifully. Some crusty rustic bread also works wonderfully to mop up every last bit of cheesy sauce from your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this dish straight from the oven in the same baking dish for a rustic, comforting feel. For special occasions, individual ramekins create charming personal portions that make the meal feel extra special and cozy. Sprinkle fresh sage just before serving to keep that delightful crispness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftovers can be stored covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors develop even more overnight, making for a deliciously comforting next-day meal.

Freezing

This bake freezes well; transfer cooled portions to airtight containers or freezer bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best results.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Adding a splash of cream or stock before reheating helps revive the creamy texture wonderfully.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While blue cheese or goat’s cheese adds signature tanginess, feel free to swap in feta, ricotta, or even a mild cream cheese to suit your taste buds.

Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

This recipe uses dairy creams and cheeses, so it’s not vegan as is. However, you could experiment by substituting plant-based cream and cheeses for a vegan-friendly version.

Can I make this without an air fryer or oven?

The oven or air fryer is ideal for the roasting and crisping steps, but you could cook the pumpkin on the stovetop until tender and finish under a grill if needed. Just keep an eye to avoid burning the cheese and nuts.

What if I don’t have pecans?

Walnuts or toasted hazelnuts make excellent substitutes for pecans, providing that same satisfying crunch and nutty flavor.

Can I add meat to this recipe?

Definitely! Chef’s tip: drape thin slices of ham like Serrano or Parma over the pumpkin during cooking to get them crispy, then crumble over the bake before serving for a delicious meaty twist.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake with Blue Cheese, Pecans, and Crispy Sage Recipe has quickly become a standout favorite for those cozy dinner nights. It’s a beautiful blend of textures and flavors that feels indulgent without being complicated, making it perfect for busy nights or impressive weekend meals. Give it a try—you’ll be happily munching on golden, cheesy bites while dreaming of the next time you can make it again.