To make this recipe shine, you’ll need both fresh and pantry staples. The combination creates a sauce that clings perfectly to gnocchi, delivering flavor in every bite.
2 pounds (900 g) russet potatoes
1 cup (130 g) all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
1 large egg
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup pumpkin purée (canned or homemade)
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter sauce)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
1 teaspoon chopped fresh sage (optional but recommended)
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Chopped parsley
Toasted pine nuts or walnuts (optional for crunch)
Large pot (for boiling gnocchi)
Skillet or sauté pan (for preparing sauce)
Potato ricer or masher (if making homemade gnocchi)
Mixing bowls
Whisk and wooden spoon
Strainer or slotted spoon