Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Brown Butter Sage Sauce: A Cozy Fall Recipe

Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Brown Butter Sage Sauce is an incredible fall-inspired dish that brings together the earthy flavors of sweet potatoes and the rich, nutty taste of browned butter. This comforting dish is perfect for anyone craving something warm, indulgent, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a cozy evening with friends, this recipe will surely impress your guests with its rustic charm and irresistible taste.

Why Sweet Potato Gnocchi?

Gnocchi is one of those dishes that feels fancy but is surprisingly easy to prepare. It’s an Italian staple, but this variation uses sweet potatoes, which adds a unique sweetness and vibrant color to the dish. The soft, pillowy texture of gnocchi, combined with the richness of the brown butter sage sauce, creates a harmonious balance of flavors that will have you coming back for more.

Sweet potatoes are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. They provide a rich source of fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants. Paired with the nutty richness of brown butter and the freshness of sage, this dish becomes both healthy and comforting—ideal for a fall dinner, Thanksgiving feast, or a cozy weekend meal.

The Benefits of Homemade Gnocchi

While store-bought gnocchi is convenient, making your own gnocchi from scratch adds a personal touch and allows you to control the texture and flavor. Homemade gnocchi is also incredibly fresh, and it absorbs sauces better than its store-bought counterpart. You can experiment with different flavors and fillings, and you’re guaranteed to impress anyone you serve it to!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Brown Butter Sage Sauce, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Gnocchi:

• 2 medium sweet potatoes (about 1 lb) – These are the base of the gnocchi and provide both sweetness and a beautiful color.
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting) – This is used to bind the dough and give the gnocchi its structure.
• 1 egg – The egg helps hold the dough together and provides richness.
• 1 tsp salt – To bring out the natural flavors of the sweet potatoes.
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg – Adds a warm, spicy note to the dough.
• ¼ tsp black pepper – For seasoning.

For the Brown Butter Sage Sauce:

• 6 tbsp unsalted butter – The key ingredient for the brown butter sauce, creating a nutty, rich flavor.
• 10-12 fresh sage leaves – Sage adds an aromatic, slightly peppery flavor that pairs perfectly with brown butter.
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (optional) – Adds extra depth and earthiness, though it’s optional.
• ¼ tsp salt – To season the sauce.
• ¼ tsp black pepper – For a little heat.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for serving) – The salty, savory taste of Parmesan complements the sweetness of the gnocchi and enhances the overall dish.

Instructions for Perfect Gnocchi

Step 1: Cook the Sweet Potatoes

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pierce the sweet potatoes with a fork to allow steam to escape while baking. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour or until they are soft and cooked through. Once the sweet potatoes are done, allow them to cool slightly before peeling off the skin. Mash the sweet potato flesh until smooth; you should have around 1 ½ cups of mashed sweet potato.

Step 2: Make the Gnocchi Dough

In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potato with the egg, salt, nutmeg, and black pepper. Gradually add the flour, stirring gently to form a dough. Be cautious not to overwork the dough to avoid making the gnocchi tough. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable. Lightly flour your work surface, and turn the dough out onto it. Divide the dough into four portions and roll each portion into a long log, about ¾ inch in diameter.

Once you’ve shaped the dough into logs, cut them into 1-inch pieces. If you’d like, use a fork to gently press down on each piece to create the classic gnocchi shape.

Step 3: Cook the Gnocchi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully drop the gnocchi into the boiling water in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Once the gnocchi floats to the surface, let it cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. Remove the gnocchi with a slotted spoon and set them aside.

Step 4: Make the Brown Butter Sage Sauce

While the gnocchi is cooking, heat 6 tbsp of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Let the butter melt, swirling the pan occasionally. Continue cooking the butter until it turns golden brown and gives off a nutty aroma, which should take about 3-5 minutes.

Add the fresh sage leaves and thyme (if using) to the skillet, allowing them to crisp up in the butter. This only takes 1-2 minutes. Season the sauce with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine the Gnocchi and Sauce

Once the gnocchi is cooked, transfer it to the skillet with the brown butter sage sauce. Gently toss the gnocchi in the sauce to coat it evenly, letting it absorb the rich flavors for 1-2 minutes.

Step 6: Serve

Once the gnocchi is well coated in the brown butter sauce, plate it and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top. Garnish with extra sage leaves for added color and flavor, if desired. Serve the gnocchi warm and enjoy its melt-in-your-mouth texture and the rich, aromatic flavors of the brown butter and sage.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Brown Butter Sage Sauce is not just a meal—it’s an experience. The gnocchi itself is soft, tender, and bursting with the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes. The brown butter sauce adds a nutty, caramelized flavor that perfectly complements the earthiness of the sage. The Parmesan cheese ties everything together, adding a savory, salty note that brings the dish to life.

This dish is perfect for fall, but it’s versatile enough to be enjoyed year-round. It works as a hearty main course or as a side dish to accompany a protein of your choice. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just craving a comforting homemade meal, this recipe won’t disappoint.

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes! You can make the gnocchi dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, simply roll, cut, and cook the gnocchi as directed. You can also freeze the uncooked gnocchi for later use—just boil them directly from the freezer.

2. Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes? While this recipe is specifically for sweet potato gnocchi, you can use regular potatoes instead. However, sweet potatoes add a unique sweetness and flavor that makes this dish special. If you prefer regular potatoes, you’ll need to make sure they are mashed very finely to achieve the same texture.

3. Can I substitute the brown butter sage sauce with something else? Yes! If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can make a simple garlic butter sauce or a tomato-based sauce. However, the brown butter sage sauce is what makes this dish so special, with its nutty flavor and aromatic herbs.

4. How can I make this dish vegan? To make this dish vegan, you can substitute the egg in the gnocchi dough with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water). For the brown butter sauce, use vegan butter and skip the Parmesan, or use a dairy-free cheese substitute.

5. What should I serve this dish with? Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Brown Butter Sage Sauce is delicious on its own, but it can also be served with a simple side salad, roasted vegetables, or grilled chicken or pork. It’s a great option for a well-rounded meal.

Conclusion

Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Brown Butter Sage Sauce is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The tender, sweet potato gnocchi paired with the nutty brown butter sauce and crispy sage creates a symphony of flavors that will make this dish a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply indulging in a cozy, homemade meal, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy the warmth, comfort, and deliciousness of this fall-inspired recipe!

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