Homemade Sweet Potato Gnocchi: Simple, Savory & Gluten-Free

Imagine a plate of soft, pillowy gnocchi, infused with the earthy sweetness of sweet potatoes and bathed in a rich sage butter sauce. Sweet potato gnocchi is the ultimate comfort food, combining the familiar warmth of Italian cuisine with a unique twist on traditional flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or trying out a homemade pasta dish for the first time, this gnocchi recipe is guaranteed to impress with its simplicity and rich, mouthwatering taste.

Photo byNick Davies

Sweet potato gnocchi is a heartwarming dish rooted in Italian tradition. Gnocchi itself dates back to Roman times when dumpling-like pasta was made from simple ingredients. In this modern take, the incorporation of sweet potatoes adds a delightful natural sweetness, making it a wonderful autumn or winter meal. It's also a dish that caters well to dietary preferences—easily adaptable to gluten-free or vegan variations.

The Recipe: Simple and Delicious Sweet Potato Gnocchi

To make this at home, you don’t need fancy equipment, just a few ingredients and a love for cooking!

Ingredients:

• 2 large sweet potatoes
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for a GF option)
• 1 egg (optional, for richer dough)
• 1 tsp salt
• Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
• A pinch of nutmeg (optional, for a warm flavor)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• A handful of fresh sage leaves
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Directions:

1. Roast the sweet potatoes: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pierce the sweet potatoes with a fork, place them on a baking sheet, and roast them for about 45 minutes until tender. Once they’re cool enough to handle, scoop out the flesh and mash it until smooth.
2. Make the dough: Combine the mashed sweet potato with flour, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. If you’re using an egg, mix it in at this stage to help bind the dough. Knead the dough gently until it just comes together. You want the dough to be soft but not sticky. Be careful not to overwork it.
3. Shape the gnocchi: Divide the dough into four portions and roll each into long ropes, about ¾ inch thick. Cut the ropes into bite-sized pieces. For that classic gnocchi look, gently roll each piece over the tines of a fork to create ridges.
4. Cook the gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Drop the gnocchi in, and once they float to the top (about 2-3 minutes), they’re done! Remove with a slotted spoon.
5. Prepare the sage butter sauce: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the fresh sage leaves and cook until the butter turns golden brown and the sage leaves are crispy. Toss the cooked gnocchi in the sage butter sauce, making sure each piece is well coated.
6. Serve: Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and maybe a sprinkle of cracked black pepper for a bit of extra heat. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting, rich flavors.

Tips for Success:

• Avoid Overworking the Dough: The key to light, fluffy gnocchi is handling the dough gently. Too much kneading will make it tough.
• Gluten-Free Option: Simply swap out the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour mix. Sweet potatoes are naturally gluten-free, making this dish an easy adaptation for those with dietary restrictions.
• Vegan Twist: Skip the egg and opt for olive oil or a vegan butter for the sauce to make this recipe completely plant-based.

Pairing Suggestions for Gnocchi

Gnocchi, with its delicate yet slightly chewy texture, pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes and accompaniments that can elevate the meal. Here are a few pairing ideas to complement your gnocchi dish:

1. Crispy Garlic Bread: The soft, pillowy texture of the gnocchi is beautifully balanced with a crispy side of garlic bread. The rich butter and garlic flavors complement the gnocchi’s sauce (especially if it’s tomato or pesto-based), adding a satisfying crunch to each bite.
2. Fresh Green Salad: A simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette can bring a refreshing contrast to the richness of gnocchi. Try a mix of arugula, spinach, and romaine with lemon juice, olive oil, and a sprinkle of Parmesan for a fresh side that won’t overwhelm the main dish.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes, bring a touch of sweetness and a depth of flavor that complements gnocchi perfectly. The caramelized edges of the veggies add an extra layer of texture.
4. Sautéed Greens: Spinach, kale, or Swiss chard sautéed in olive oil with garlic can be a great, light side. The earthy flavor of the greens balances out the rich and hearty gnocchi dish, especially if you’ve made a creamy or cheesy sauce.
5. Italian Sausage: For a meatier pairing, Italian sausage (mild or spicy) can add a burst of flavor that works well with gnocchi. Simply grill or pan-fry the sausage and serve it alongside the gnocchi or mixed into the dish.

Pro Tips for Perfect Gnocchi:

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: When cooking gnocchi, make sure to give each piece enough room to cook properly, especially if you’re pan-searing them after boiling. Overcrowding can cause them to steam instead of getting that lovely crispy golden crust.
• Use a light hand with sauces: Since gnocchi is dense and filling, opt for lighter sauces. A simple butter and sage sauce, light tomato-based sauce, or a pesto can complement gnocchi without overpowering it.
• Gnocchi Variations: Try making sweet potato or spinach gnocchi for a fun twist on the classic potato version. Both variations add a new dimension of flavor and a burst of color to your dish.

Call to Action

Have you tried making gnocchi at home? How did it turn out? Let me know in the comments below! If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to share it with your friends and follow for more delicious recipes.

Sources:

Family Recipe