Brown Butter Sweet Potato Gnocchi
Brown Butter Sweet Potato Gnocchi is a cozy and comforting dish that transforms sweet potatoes into tender, pillowy gnocchi. Complemented by a rich, nutty brown butter sauce and optional crispy sage, this recipe offers a perfect balance of natural sweetness and savory depth. Ideal for all skill levels, it’s a versatile, elegant meal suited for any occasion.
- Author: Emily
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 2 large sweet potatoes (preferably Beauregard or Jewel varieties)
- 1 to 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free option)
- 1 egg yolk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Brown Butter Sauce
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 6 to 8 fresh sage leaves (optional)
- Roast the Sweet Potatoes: Wash the sweet potatoes and roast them whole in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 45-60 minutes, or until soft and caramelized. This process enhances their natural sweetness and reduces excess moisture for perfect gnocchi dough.
- Prepare the Dough: Allow the roasted sweet potatoes to cool. Peel and mash them until smooth. In a bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes with the egg yolk, salt, and gradually add the flour. Gently knead the mixture until a soft, smooth dough forms. Take care not to overwork the dough to keep the gnocchi tender.
- Shape the Gnocchi: Divide the dough into smaller portions. Roll each portion into ropes about 1/2 inch in diameter, then cut into bite-sized pieces. Optionally, press each piece with a fork to create ridges that help hold the sauce.
- Cook the Gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi in small batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook until they float to the surface, approximately 2-3 minutes, then remove with a slotted spoon.
- Brown the Butter Sauce: While cooking the gnocchi, melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Continue cooking until the butter foams and turns a golden-brown color, releasing a nutty aroma. If using, add sage leaves and fry until crisp.
- Combine and Serve: Drain the gnocchi and immediately toss them in the brown butter sauce, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Serve hot for an indulgent, melt-in-the-mouth experience.
Notes
- Choose dry sweet potato varieties like Beauregard or Jewel to prevent watery dough.
- Use just enough flour to hold the dough together to keep gnocchi light and tender.
- Test-cook a few gnocchi first to confirm texture before shaping all.
- Watch the butter carefully while browning to prevent burning and bitterness.
- Add fresh herbs like fried sage for enhanced flavor and presentation.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg
Keywords: brown butter, sweet potato, gnocchi, comfort food, gluten-free, sage, homemade