Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Brown Butter Sage Sauce

Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Brown Butter Sage Sauce is a delightful dish that perfectly marries the sweet earthiness of sweet potatoes with the nutty flavor of brown butter and the aromatic hint of sage. This comforting dish is easy to make and will impress anyone at your dinner table.

Ingredients

For the Sweet Potato Gnocchi

• 2 medium sweet potatoes (about 1 pound)
• 1 ½ to 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 large egg
• ½ teaspoon salt
• A pinch of nutmeg (optional)

For the Brown Butter Sage Sauce

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 10-12 fresh sage leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
• Chopped walnuts or pecans for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Poke holes in the sweet potatoes with a fork and place them on a baking sheet.
3. Roast in the oven for about 45-60 minutes, or until fork-tender. Let them cool slightly before handling.

Step 2: Make the Gnocchi Dough

1. Peel the cooled sweet potatoes and mash them in a large bowl until smooth.
2. Add the egg, salt, and nutmeg. Mix until combined.
3. Gradually add the flour, starting with 1 ½ cups. Mix until a dough forms. The dough should be soft but not sticky. If it’s too sticky, add more flour as needed.
4. Divide the dough into four portions. Roll each portion into a long rope, about ½ inch thick.
5. Cut the ropes into 1-inch pieces to form your gnocchi. Optional: Use a fork to create ridges on each piece for better sauce adherence.

Step 3: Cook the Gnocchi

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Gently drop the gnocchi into the boiling water, cooking in batches if necessary.
3. Once they float to the top (about 2-3 minutes), they are done. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Brown Butter Sage Sauce

1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the sage leaves and cook until the butter turns a golden brown and the leaves become crispy, about 4-5 minutes. Be careful not to let the butter burn.
3. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

1. Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet with the brown butter sauce. Toss gently to coat.
2. Serve immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped walnuts or pecans if desired.

Cooking Tips

• Choosing Sweet Potatoes: Look for firm, smooth sweet potatoes without blemishes. The sweeter the potato, the better the flavor of your gnocchi.
• Flour Amount: The amount of flour needed can vary based on the moisture content of sweet potatoes. Start with less and add more as necessary.
• Make Ahead: You can make the gnocchi in advance and freeze them. Just ensure they are spread out on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a bag.
• Flavor Variations: For a twist, try adding spices like cinnamon or cayenne pepper to the gnocchi dough for a unique flavor profile.

Pairing Suggestions

Pair your Sweet Potato Gnocchi with a crisp green salad or a light soup to balance the richness of the dish. A glass of white wine, like a Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, complements the flavors beautifully.

Photography Ideas

Capture the vibrant colors of the sweet potato gnocchi against a rustic wooden background. Highlight the golden-brown butter sauce and crispy sage leaves for an appealing shot. Consider close-ups to showcase texture and detail.

Further Exploration

Want to dive deeper into the world of Italian cuisine? Check out these articles for more inspiration:

• Homemade Pasta: A Beginner’s Guide
• The Art of Making Gnocchi

This Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Brown Butter Sage Sauce is not only delightful but also a fun dish to prepare with loved ones. Try your hand at this recipe, and share your experience! Feel free to subscribe to our newsletter for more mouthwatering recipes and cooking tips. Happy cooking!