Air Fryer Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that bursts with autumn flavors and has a delightfully crispy top, this Air Fryer Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake is about to become your new favorite. Imagine tender pumpkin cubes nestled with pillowy gnocchi, all bathed in a creamy, cheesy sauce and topped with crunchy pecans and crispy sage leaves. It’s that perfect blend of sweet, savory, and crunchy textures that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening, made effortlessly in the air fryer for maximum ease and flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Air Fryer Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake lies in its simple, carefully chosen ingredients. Each one brings something special, from the natural sweetness of pumpkin to the rich creaminess of cheese and the aromatic punch of sage. Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand to make this beautiful, vibrant dish come to life.

• Pumpkin (350g): Peeled and diced into bite-sized cubes, pumpkin adds natural sweetness and a gorgeous orange color.
• Gnocchi (500g): These soft potato dumplings soak up the sauce beautifully and give the bake its comforting heart.
• Blue cheese or soft goat’s cheese (50g): Adds a creamy tanginess that cuts through the sweetness perfectly.
• Sage leaves (6g): These fragrant leaves crisp up wonderfully for an earthy, herbal crunch on top.
• Vegetable stock (400ml): Keeps everything moist and infuses gentle savory depth to the dish.
• Single dairy cream (¼ cup): Enriches the sauce, lending a smooth, velvety texture.
• Mozzarella or cheddar cheese (50g): Melts golden and bubbly for that irresistible topping.
• Pecans (30g): Provides a nutty crunch that brings contrast and excitement to each bite.

How to Make Air Fryer Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake

Step 1: Prep the Pumpkin

Start by peeling and dicing the pumpkin into 2cm cubes. This size is key so they cook evenly and become tender without turning mushy. Toss the chopped pumpkin in your air fryer basket or an air fryer-safe dish with 100ml of vegetable stock, plus a pinch of salt and black pepper. Air fry at 170°C for about 15 minutes until the pumpkin is just starting to soften but still holds its shape.

Step 2: Add Gnocchi and Cream

Pour the remaining vegetable stock into the basket, then nestle the gnocchi in among the pumpkin cubes. Crumble the blue or goat’s cheese evenly over the top, then pour the cream over everything. Gently mix to combine, making sure the gnocchi and pumpkin are swimming in that luscious creamy sauce.

Step 3: Cook Until Bubbling

Set your air fryer to a higher heat of 220°C and cook the mixture for 12 minutes. You want to see the gnocchi and pumpkin cooked through, and the sauce bubbling happily beneath the surface.

Step 4: Add Toppings

Sprinkle the mozzarella or cheddar cheese and pecans across the top. Return the dish to the air fryer for 2 more minutes so the cheese melts to a perfect golden brown and the pecans toast lightly for added crunch.

Step 5: Crisp the Sage

Toss the sage leaves in a drizzle of oil, scatter them over the bake, and air fry for another minute until the sage crisps up beautifully, adding a final herbal pop that makes this bake irresistible and fragrant.

How to Serve Air Fryer Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake

Garnishes

This bake is already bursting with flavor, but a few extra touches can elevate it even further. A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or a drizzle of extra olive oil just before serving adds shine and zest. Fresh sage leaves or a handful of chopped parsley on the side brighten the dish visually and aromatic ally.

Side Dishes

Serve your Air Fryer Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake alongside a crisp green salad to cut through the richness, or add some garlicky sautéed kale for a nutrient-packed, vibrant complement. A warm slice of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up every last bit of that creamy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, serve this bake in individual ramekins for a pretty, personal touch. Alternatively, layering the gnocchi and pumpkin in a clear glass casserole dish highlights the gorgeous colors, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious. Experiment with swapping pecans for walnuts or adding a sprinkle of chili flakes if you like a hint of heat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Air Fryer Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake keeps wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It tastes just as good a day or two later, making it brilliant for meal prep or busy weeknight dinners.

Freezing

If you want to freeze leftovers, let the bake cool completely, then transfer portions into freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the microwave or in a preheated oven at 180°C until warmed through. To revive the crispy topping, pop under the grill for a minute or two, keeping a close eye so it doesn’t burn.

FAQs

Can I use frozen pumpkin instead of fresh?

Fresh pumpkin is ideal for the best texture, but frozen cubes work in a pinch. Just thaw and drain any excess water before cooking to prevent a watery bake.

What other cheeses can I use if I don’t have blue or goat cheese?

Feta or ricotta make wonderful alternatives that maintain the creamy, tangy profile. For a milder taste, simply increase the mozzarella or cheddar slightly.

Is it possible to make this recipe without an air fryer?

Absolutely! You can easily make the Air Fryer Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake in a conventional oven by following the oven instructions included in the recipe, roasting the pumpkin first, then baking the whole dish until bubbling and golden.

Can I substitute the pecans for another nut or seeds?

Definitely. Walnuts, almonds, or even pumpkin seeds add a lovely crunch and complement the autumnal flavors beautifully.

How do I make the sage leaves crispy without burning?

Coat the leaves lightly in oil and air fry or roast for just a minute at the end of cooking. Keep a close watch, as they can go from crisp to burnt very quickly.

Final Thoughts

This Air Fryer Pumpkin Gnocchi Bake is one of those dishes you’ll want to make again and again, especially when you crave something hearty, comforting, and just a bit special. With its harmonious blend of creamy, crunchy, and savory elements, it’s a winner for family dinners or impressing guests without fuss. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try this recipe—you might just find a new seasonal favorite in your kitchen!

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