pumpkin gnocchi with pepita pesto cream sauce

source: danae original

i stumbled across pumpkin gnocchi at world market a couple weeks ago & knew i had to try it! i thought what better to make with it than something with pumpkin seeds?! [pepitas = shelled pumpkin seeds] so we made this recipe up tonight & loved it.

{pictured with italian bread & roasted veggies}

2 packages pumpkin gnocchi {regular is fine, too}
1 kielbasa link, sliced into thin half moons
olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
2 tablespoons flour
1 cup chicken stock
1/2 to 1 cup half 'n' half 
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup parmesan cheese
freshly grated nutmeg
1/2 cup basil
1/2 to 1 cup roasted & salted pepitas
zest of 1 lemon


1. boil water. salt it. add gnocchi, & cook according to package directions.

2. saute kielbasa in a skillet with a drizzle of olive oil until crispy on the edges.

3. using the same skillet & kielbasa drippings, add butter & melt. add flour, & whisk to create a roux.

4. add chicken stock & half 'n' half slowly until reach desired consistency.

5. add cheeses & grated nutmeg.

6. grind basil, pepitas, lemon zest, & olive oil in a food processor until reach desired consistency & flavor.

7. toss gnocchi, kielbasa, & cream sauce together. top each serving with a generous dollop of pepita pesto.