Introduction
Sweet potato gnocchi with garlic sage butter sauce is a delightful dish that merges the sweetness of potatoes with the rich flavors of creamy cheeses and aromatic herbs. This recipe not only showcases the versatility of gnocchi but also highlights the delightful pairing of sweet potato and ricotta. Perfect as a comforting main course or a lovely side dish, this dish is sure to impress anyone fortunate enough to enjoy it.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 medium sweet potato (about 1 pound)
1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
8 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
5-6 fresh sage leaves
5 cups finely chopped broccoli rabe (optional)
1/3 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon sea salt
Prep Time
Preparation for this dish takes approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on your experience with making gnocchi and handling ingredients.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time is around 15 minutes, making the total time for this recipe roughly 35-45 minutes. This recipe yields enough gnocchi for about 4 servings, ensuring there’s plenty to share or enjoy over a couple of meals.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Sweet Potato
– Pierce the sweet potato several times with a fork.
– Microwave on high for 5-6 minutes until tender.
– Allow to cool slightly, then peel and mash until smooth.
Make the Gnocchi Dough
– In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potato, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and salt.
– Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
– If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour as needed.
Shape the Gnocchi
– Transfer the dough to a floured surface.
– Divide into small portions and roll each into a rope about 1/2 inch thick.
– Cut the ropes into 1-inch pieces.
– Optional: Roll each piece over the back of a fork to create ridges.
Cook the Gnocchi
– Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
– Add the gnocchi in batches; they are done when they float to the surface.
– Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
Prepare the Broccoli Rabe (Optional)
– Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
– Add the chopped broccoli rabe and blanch for 1-2 minutes until tender.
– Drain and set aside.
Make the Garlic Sage Butter Sauce
– In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
– Add the minced garlic and sage leaves; cook until the butter begins to brown and the sage is crispy.
– Add the heavy cream and sea salt; stir to combine.
Combine and Serve
– Add the cooked gnocchi (and broccoli rabe, if using) to the skillet.
– Toss gently to coat with the sauce and heat through.
– Serve warm, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
Sweet Potato Cooking Method
– You can also bake the sweet potato at 400°F for about 45-60 minutes if preferred.
Dough Consistency
– The dough should be soft but not overly sticky. Adjust the flour accordingly.
Rolling Gnocchi
– Creating ridges on the gnocchi helps sauce adhere better, but is optional.
Serving Suggestions
– This dish pairs well with a light salad or crusty bread.
Cook techniques
Preparing the Sweet Potato
Piercing the sweet potato and microwaving it until tender ensures it cooks evenly and is easier to mash for the gnocchi dough.
Making the Gnocchi Dough
Combining the sweet potato with ricotta and Parmesan creates a rich, flavorful base. Gradually adding flour helps control the dough’s texture, ensuring it’s soft and not overly sticky.
Shaping the Gnocchi
Rolling the dough into ropes and cutting them into pieces gives the gnocchi its traditional shape. Using a fork to create ridges helps sauce adhere better.
Cooking the Gnocchi
Boiling gnocchi in salted water until they float indicates they are ready. This method preserves their delicate texture.
Preparing the Broccoli Rabe
Blanching broccoli rabe in salted water keeps it vibrant and tender, making it a great optional addition to the dish.
Making the Garlic Sage Butter Sauce
Cooking butter with garlic and sage until browned adds depth of flavor. The addition of heavy cream creates a rich, creamy sauce that complements the gnocchi.
Combining and Serving
Tossing the cooked gnocchi with the sauce ensures they are evenly coated and warmed through, making for a cohesive dish ready to enjoy.
FAQ
Can I use canned sweet potato instead of fresh?
Yes, but make sure to drain it well and adjust the flour accordingly to achieve the right dough consistency.
What type of flour is best for gnocchi?
All-purpose flour is recommended, but you can experiment with 00 flour for a different texture.
How can I store leftover gnocchi?
Refrigerate cooked gnocchi in an airtight container for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
Can I use a different cheese instead of ricotta?
You can substitute with mascarpone or cottage cheese, but the texture and flavor will differ slightly.
Is there a substitute for sage?
Thyme or rosemary can be used as alternatives to sage, but the flavor profile will change.
Conclusion
This sweet potato gnocchi with garlic sage butter sauce offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that are sure to impress. The combination of creamy ricotta and sweet potatoes creates a tender, flavorful base for the gnocchi, while the garlic sage butter adds a rich, aromatic finish. Optional additions like broccoli rabe can enhance the dish further, making it a versatile option for any occasion.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Brown Butter and Sage
Replace the garlic sage butter with a nutty brown butter sauce to elevate the flavors and create a different experience.
Ricotta and Spinach Stuffed Gnocchi
Incorporate a mixture of ricotta cheese and sautéed spinach into the gnocchi for a delicious stuffed version that adds a pop of green.
Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Walnut Pesto
Toss the gnocchi in a homemade walnut pesto for a rich and earthy side dish that enhances the sweet notes of the potatoes.
Gnocchi with Tomato Basil Sauce
Serve the gnocchi with a bright and fresh tomato basil sauce for a classic Italian twist, perfectly balancing the sweetness of the sweet potatoes.
Roasted Vegetable Gnocchi Bowl
Pair the gnocchi with a mix of roasted seasonal vegetables for a hearty and nutritious meal that’s both satisfying and colorful.
Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Alfredo Sauce
Creamy Alfredo sauce complements the gnocchi beautifully, creating a decadent dish that’s rich in flavor and comfort.
Herb-infused Gnocchi with Lemon Butter Sauce
Add fresh herbs such as thyme or parsley into the gnocchi dough and serve with a light lemon butter sauce for a fresh and zesty kick.
