As the first chill of autumn settles in, I find myself longing for comforting dishes that wrap me in cozy warmth, and that’s where this Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Bacon shines. Picture this: pillowy gnocchi nestled in a silky pumpkin-cream sauce, kissed by smoky bacon and fragrant thyme. It’s a one-pan miracle that comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal recipe for hectic weeknights or festive gatherings alike. Not only does it evoke the essence of fall, but it also packs a punch of delightful flavors that will leave everyone wanting more. Ready to transform your dinner routine? Let’s dive into this simple, yet scrumptious dish together! Why is this Gnocchi Recipe a Must-Try? Comfort and Convenience: This Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Bacon comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Rich, Creamy Flavor: The silky pumpkin sauce, enhanced by crispy bacon, delivers a luxurious taste that warms the soul. One-Pan Wonder: You’ll save time on cleanup with this easy one-pan recipe – less hassle means more time for enjoying your meal! Fall Fusion: Embrace the flavors of autumn with every bite, as the combination of pumpkin and thyme creates a seasonal delight. Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, its comforting essence will have everyone raving for more. Try pairing it with a refreshing arugula salad or crusty whole-grain bread for the complete experience! Enjoy this delicious dish as a cozy alternative to takeout, made right at home. Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Bacon Ingredients • Get ready to gather everything you need for the ultimate comfort dish! For the Bacon Bacon – Adds smoky flavor and richness; substitute turkey bacon for a lighter option. For the Gnocchi Base Shelf-stable Gnocchi – This base ingredient provides texture; for a softer version, use fresh gnocchi but skip the crisping step. Extra-virgin Olive Oil – Essential for sautéing; can substitute with avocado oil for a higher smoke point. For the Aromatics Chopped Onion – Builds flavor in the sauce; substitute shallots for a milder taste. Garlic Cloves (minced) – Enhances aromatic depth; garlic powder works as an alternative in a pinch. Chopped Fresh Thyme – Contributes herbal notes; if fresh is unavailable, use dried thyme (1 tsp). For the Creamy Sauce Reduced-fat Milk – Adds creaminess; swap with almond milk for a dairy-free option. Reduced-fat Cream Cheese – Creates a smooth texture; use full-fat cream cheese or cashew cream for added richness. Unseasoned Canned Pumpkin – The star of the dish, providing flavor and color; ensure you use pure pumpkin, not pie filling. Ground Black Pepper – Adds mild spice, and freshly ground will enhance the flavor. Grated Parmesan Cheese – For a finishing touch and saltiness; substitute with nutritional yeast for a vegan option. Now you’re all set to create your very own Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Bacon! Enjoy the process and the delicious rewards that follow. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Bacon Step 1: Cook Bacon In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes crispy and golden brown. Once done, remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain, reserving the flavorful drippings in the pan. Step 2: Sauté Gnocchi With the bacon drippings still in the skillet, add 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. Place the shelf-stable gnocchi into the pan, sautéing for 5–7 minutes until they turn golden and crispy, stirring gently to ensure even cooking. Once finished, transfer the crispy gnocchi to a plate and set aside. Step 3: Sauté Aromatics In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook for 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until softened and translucent. Next, incorporate the minced garlic and chopped fresh thyme, cooking for an additional 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning and allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Step 4: Make Sauce Slowly add the reduced-fat milk, cream cheese, unseasoned canned pumpkin, and a pinch of ground black pepper to the skillet. Whisk the mixture together vigorously for 3–4 minutes over medium heat, until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy, ensuring all ingredients are well combined and heated through. Step 5: Combine Ingredients Return the sautéed gnocchi and crispy bacon to the skillet, gently tossing everything together until the gnocchi are thoroughly coated in the luscious pumpkin sauce. Allow the dish to heat through for an additional 2–3 minutes, ensuring all ingredients are hot and harmonized in flavor. Step 6: Finish Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and enrich the sauce, creating an irresistible creamy texture. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding a touch more pepper or salt. Serve the Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Bacon hot, garnished with extra thyme if desired. What to Serve with Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Bacon As you dive into the rich, luxurious flavors of this autumn-inspired dish, consider these delightful sides and drinks to elevate your meal experience. Arugula Salad: Bright and peppery, this fresh salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the creamy richness of the gnocchi perfectly. Crusty Whole-Grain Bread: Ideal for mopping up every last bit of that velvety pumpkin sauce, this hearty bread adds a satisfying crunch. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Nutty and slightly sweet, these crispy sprouts provide a lovely contrast of textures and flavors to the meal. Toss in some balsamic glaze for an extra kick! Savory Garlic Bread: Its buttery, garlicky goodness pairs beautifully, making it hard to resist dipping into the dreamy sauce of your gnocchi. Sparkling Apple Cider: Refreshing and lightly sweet, this drink adds a fun autumnal flair, complementing the cozy flavors of the dish wonderfully. Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake: Ending your meal with a slice of this decadent dessert resonates with the flavors of the main dish and will satisfy any sweet tooth. Each of these pairings brings something unique to your table, creating a warm and inviting dining experience that captures the essence of fall! Make Ahead Options These Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Bacon are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prep the sauce (minus the cream cheese and milk) up to 3 days in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to preserve its delicious flavors. The gnocchi can be sautéed and stored separately as well, but wait to combine everything until just before serving to maintain that creamy texture. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, simply heat the sauce gently in a skillet, adding the cream cheese and milk to bring it back to life. Reheat the gnocchi alongside until warmed through, and you’ll have a comforting dish on the table in no time! How to Store and Freeze Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Bacon Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. Freezer: If you want to freeze your creamy pumpkin gnocchi with bacon, place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of milk to revive the creamy sauce. Avoid Sogginess: To prevent sogginess, it’s best not to freeze the dish directly after making it. Instead, let it cool completely before packing it for the freezer. Expert Tips for Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Bacon Softened Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is softened before mixing it into the sauce to avoid lumps and achieve a silky texture. Gnocchi Cooking: If using fresh gnocchi, boil as per package instructions and skip the initial crisping step to prevent them from falling apart. Adjust Sauce Consistency: If your sauce ends up too thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up for that perfect creamy finish. Bacon Alternatives: For a lighter option, consider using turkey bacon or omitting the bacon entirely for a vegetarian version while starting with olive oil instead. Storage Precautions: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk to rejuvenate the sauce and keep it creamy. Flavor Enhancements: Experiment with spices like nutmeg or sage for added flavors, or toss in some fresh spinach or kale to boost nutrients in your Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Bacon! Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Bacon Variations Feel free to get creative with this delightful recipe to suit your taste buds and dietary preferences! Vegetarian: Omit bacon and sauté in olive oil to maintain the comforting essence without meat. Leafy Greens: Add a handful of fresh spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for a nutritious, vibrant touch. Nutty Flavor: Toss in toasted pine nuts or walnuts for added crunch and a delightful nutty flavor in every bite. Hearty Texture: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms for an earthy depth; their umami richness beautifully complements the pumpkin. Spicy Kick: Drizzle a bit of sriracha or sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes into the sauce for a warm, spicy surprise! Creamy Twist: For an ultra-luxurious sauce, blend in a dollop of mascarpone cheese along with the cream cheese, enriching the dish’s creaminess. Herb Variations: Swap thyme for fresh sage or rosemary to explore new flavor dimensions that accentuate the autumn vibe. Gnocchi Options: Try sweet potato gnocchi instead of traditional ones for a slightly sweeter and nutritious alternative that pairs well with the pumpkin sauce. Don’t forget to enjoy the harmony of flavors by pairing this comforting dish with a refreshing arugula salad or a warm bowl of Corn Chowder Discover to elevate your meal experience. Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Bacon Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best pumpkin for this recipe? Absolutely! You want to use pure, unseasoned canned pumpkin. Avoid pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices. When using fresh pumpkins, opt for smaller, sweeter varieties like sugar pumpkins, as they have a smoother texture and balanced flavor for cooking. How should I store leftovers of Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Bacon? To keep those delicious flavors intact, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to avoid moisture buildup. When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of milk to bring the creaminess back! Can I freeze Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Bacon? Yes! You can freeze this dish for up to 3 months. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it into a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then gently reheat in a skillet, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen the sauce. What should I do if the sauce is too thick? If you find your sauce too thick, no need to worry! Simply add a little splash of milk or broth, whisking it in over medium heat until you achieve your desired creamy consistency. This will not only loosen it up but also make it even more enjoyable. I often do this, and it’s a simple fix! Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of? For sure! If you have dietary restrictions, feel free to make substitutions. Use turkey bacon for a leaner option, or omit bacon entirely for a vegetarian dish. Almond milk can replace reduced-fat milk for a dairy-free version, and full-fat cream cheese works great if you prefer it richer. Always check labels to avoid allergens! Can I use fresh gnocchi instead of shelf-stable gnocchi? Very much so! If you choose to use fresh gnocchi, just remember to skip the sautéing step used for the shelf-stable version. Instead, boil them according to the package directions, then gently toss them with the sauce to preserve their delicate texture. Enjoy the lovely softness that fresh gnocchi brings to the dish! Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Bacon: Your Cozy Fall Favorite This Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Bacon recipe combines fluffy gnocchi, a silky pumpkin-cream sauce, and smoky bacon for a cozy fall favorite. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Bacon6 slices Bacon Adds smoky flavor and richness; substitute turkey bacon for a lighter option.For the Gnocchi Base16 ounces Shelf-stable Gnocchi This base ingredient provides texture; for a softer version, use fresh gnocchi but skip the crisping step.1 tablespoon Extra-virgin Olive Oil Essential for sautéing; can substitute with avocado oil for a higher smoke point.For the Aromatics1 medium Chopped Onion Builds flavor in the sauce; substitute shallots for a milder taste.2 cloves Garlic Cloves (minced) Enhances aromatic depth; garlic powder works as an alternative in a pinch.1 tablespoon Chopped Fresh Thyme Contributes herbal notes; if fresh is unavailable, use dried thyme (1 tsp).For the Creamy Sauce1 cup Reduced-fat Milk Adds creaminess; swap with almond milk for a dairy-free option.8 ounces Reduced-fat Cream Cheese Creates a smooth texture; use full-fat cream cheese or cashew cream for added richness.15 ounces Unseasoned Canned Pumpkin The star of the dish, providing flavor and color; ensure you use pure pumpkin, not pie filling.1 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper Adds mild spice, and freshly ground will enhance the flavor.0.5 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese For a finishing touch and saltiness; substitute with nutritional yeast for a vegan option. Equipment large skillet Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes crispy and golden brown. Remove the bacon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain, reserving the drippings.With the bacon drippings still in the skillet, add 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil. Place the shelf-stable gnocchi into the pan, sautéing for 5–7 minutes until they turn golden and crispy, stirring gently. Transfer the crispy gnocchi to a plate and set aside.In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook for 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until softened and translucent. Incorporate the minced garlic and chopped fresh thyme, cooking for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.Slowly add the reduced-fat milk, cream cheese, unseasoned canned pumpkin, and a pinch of ground black pepper to the skillet. Whisk together vigorously for 3–4 minutes over medium heat until the sauce is smooth and creamy.Return the sautéed gnocchi and crispy bacon to the skillet, tossing everything together until the gnocchi are coated in the pumpkin sauce. Allow the dish to heat through for an additional 2–3 minutes.Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, then serve hot, garnished with extra thyme if desired. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 34gProtein: 12gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 750mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 900IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg NotesMake sure your cream cheese is softened before mixing it into the sauce to avoid lumps. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
