Introduction to Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Sage Butter
As the days grow shorter and the evenings cooler, I find myself craving comfort food that warms both the heart and the belly. That’s where my sweet potato gnocchi with sage butter comes in! This dish is not just a meal; it’s a cozy hug on a plate. Perfect for busy moms and professionals, it’s quick to whip up yet impressive enough to serve to loved ones. With its rich flavors and delightful textures, this gnocchi is sure to become a favorite in your home. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure together!
Why You’ll Love This Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Sage Butter
This sweet potato gnocchi with sage butter is a game-changer for busy weeknights. It’s not only easy to make, but it also comes together in just 35 minutes! The combination of sweet potatoes and sage creates a flavor explosion that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly, making it a perfect option for everyone at the table. Trust me, your family will be asking for seconds!
Ingredients for Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Sage Butter
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Sweet potato puree: This is the star of the show! It adds natural sweetness and a beautiful color to the gnocchi.
- All-purpose flour: This helps bind the dough together. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, feel free to swap it out for gluten-free flour.
- Egg: A crucial ingredient that adds richness and helps the gnocchi hold its shape.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances the flavors of the sweet potatoes and the sage butter.
- Unsalted butter: This is what makes the sage butter sauce so luscious. Using unsalted allows you to control the saltiness of the dish.
- Fresh sage leaves: These fragrant leaves bring an earthy aroma and a burst of flavor. If fresh isn’t available, dried sage can work in a pinch, but the taste will differ.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s get cooking!
How to Make Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Sage Butter
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s roll up our sleeves and get cooking! Making sweet potato gnocchi with sage butter is a delightful process that fills your kitchen with warmth and delicious aromas. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a comforting meal in no time!
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by combining the sweet potato puree, flour, egg, and salt in a large bowl. Mix until a dough forms. It should be soft but not sticky. If it feels too wet, sprinkle in a bit more flour. Remember, the key to great gnocchi is a well-balanced dough!
Step 2: Shape the Gnocchi
Once your dough is ready, turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it into long ropes, about the thickness of your pinky finger. Then, cut these ropes into small pieces, roughly an inch long. You can use a fork to create those classic gnocchi ridges, which help hold onto the sauce. It’s like giving each piece a little hug!
Step 3: Cook the Gnocchi
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Gently drop the gnocchi into the water, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Cook them until they float to the surface, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes. This is when the magic happens! Once they float, they’re ready to be drained.
Step 4: Make the Sage Butter Sauce
While the gnocchi is cooking, melt the unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the fresh sage leaves and let them sizzle. Cook until the butter turns a lovely golden brown and the sage becomes crispy. This fragrant sauce is what makes your sweet potato gnocchi truly shine!
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Drain the gnocchi and add them directly to the skillet with the sage butter. Toss gently to coat each piece in that rich, buttery goodness. Serve warm, garnished with extra sage if you like. Your sweet potato gnocchi with sage butter is now ready to be enjoyed!
Tips for Success
- Make sure your sweet potatoes are well-drained to avoid a sticky dough.
- Don’t overwork the dough; mix just until combined for light and fluffy gnocchi.
- Use a fork to create ridges on the gnocchi for better sauce adherence.
- Cook gnocchi in batches to prevent overcrowding in the pot.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of sage to suit your taste!
Equipment Needed
- Large bowl: For mixing the dough. A mixing spoon works well too.
- Floured surface: A clean countertop or cutting board is perfect for shaping the gnocchi.
- Pot: A large pot for boiling the gnocchi. A deep skillet can work in a pinch.
- Skillet: For making the sage butter sauce. A saucepan is a good alternative.
- Fork: To create ridges on the gnocchi. You can also use a gnocchi board if you have one!
Variations of Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Sage Butter
- Cheesy Delight: Add grated Parmesan or pecorino cheese to the dough for a rich, cheesy flavor that complements the sweet potatoes beautifully.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary in place of sage for a unique twist on the classic flavor profile.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes into the sage butter sauce for a delightful heat that balances the sweetness of the potatoes.
- Nutty Flavor: Toast some pine nuts or walnuts and sprinkle them over the finished dish for added crunch and a nutty flavor.
- Vegan Option: Substitute the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use vegan butter for a plant-based version.
Serving Suggestions for Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Sage Butter
- Side Salad: Pair your gnocchi with a fresh arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine, like Pinot Grigio, complements the dish beautifully.
- Presentation: Serve in a shallow bowl, garnished with extra sage and a sprinkle of Parmesan for a touch of elegance.
FAQs about Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Sage Butter
Can I make sweet potato gnocchi ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the gnocchi and freeze them before cooking. Just lay them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, cook them straight from frozen—no need to thaw!
What can I serve with sweet potato gnocchi?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad or roasted vegetables. A sprinkle of toasted nuts can add a delightful crunch. You could also serve it alongside a glass of white wine for a cozy dinner experience.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover gnocchi in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a little butter to bring back that delicious flavor!
Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes! While sweet potatoes give a unique flavor, you can use regular potatoes. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning, as they won’t have the same sweetness.
Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Definitely! Simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious!
Final Thoughts
Making sweet potato gnocchi with sage butter is more than just cooking; it’s about creating memories around the dinner table. The warmth of the buttery sage sauce envelops each bite, making it a dish that feels like home. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying a quiet evening alone, this recipe brings a sense of comfort and joy. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and savor every delicious moment of this cozy culinary adventure!
PrintSweet potato gnocchi with sage butter for a cozy dinner!
A comforting dish of sweet potato gnocchi tossed in a rich sage butter sauce, perfect for a cozy dinner.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Boiling and Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 cups sweet potato puree
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 egg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 10 fresh sage leaves
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine sweet potato puree, flour, egg, and salt to form a dough.
- On a floured surface, roll the dough into long ropes and cut into small pieces to form gnocchi.
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the gnocchi until they float to the surface.
- In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and add the sage leaves, cooking until the butter is browned.
- Drain the gnocchi and add them to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sage butter.
- Serve warm, garnished with additional sage if desired.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour.
- Make sure the sweet potatoes are well-drained to avoid a sticky dough.
- Fresh sage can be replaced with dried sage if necessary, but the flavor will differ.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 50mg

