How to Make Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Sweet Potato Gnocchi is a warm, comforting dish that brings together the natural sweetness of tender sweet potatoes with the soft, pillowy texture of homemade gnocchi. This recipe is the perfect balance of flavors and textures, with just the right amount of sweetness from the sweet potatoes, a hint of nutmeg, and a crispy finish when sautéed in butter. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or as a side dish, Sweet Potato Gnocchi is sure to impress with its vibrant color and rich, hearty taste. Simple to make, this dish is a wonderful addition to any dinner table!

Flavor Profile of Sweet Potato Gnocchi:

Sweet Potato Gnocchi has a delightful balance of flavors. The sweetness of the sweet potatoes provides a natural, subtle sweetness that is complemented by the earthy notes from the nutmeg and savory richness from the butter and Parmesan. The texture of the gnocchi is soft and pillowy, creating a comforting, melt-in-your-mouth experience. When sautéed, the gnocchi develops a crispy golden edge that adds a touch of texture and flavor, making each bite a perfect mix of sweet, savory, and nutty. The addition of fresh sage, if used, gives it a slightly herbaceous and aromatic finish.

Origin of Gnocchi:

Gnocchi, including the sweet potato version, is believed to have Italian origins, with the classic potato gnocchi emerging in the northern regions of Italy. The word “gnocchi” itself comes from the Italian word “nocchio,” meaning a knot in wood, or “nocciolo,” meaning the seed of a nut, which could refer to the small, round shape of the dumplings. Traditionally, gnocchi is made with potatoes, flour, and eggs, but variations like sweet potato gnocchi have evolved over time, incorporating different vegetables to add sweetness, color, and a twist on the classic recipe. While it’s not as traditional as the original, sweet potato gnocchi brings a modern, seasonal flair to the classic dish.

Sweet Potato Gnocchi Recipe 🍠

Serves four
Ingredients:
2 medium sweet potatoes (about 1 pound)

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting) 🌾

1 egg, beaten 🥚

1 teaspoon salt 🧂

½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional) 🌰

Freshly ground black pepper, to taste 🌶️

2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for cooking) 🧈

2 tablespoons fresh sage leaves (optional, for garnish) 🌿

Instructions:
✅ Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Pierce the sweet potatoes a few times with a fork and place them on a baking sheet. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until tender.

✅ Mash the Sweet Potatoes: Once the sweet potatoes are cool enough to handle, peel them and mash the flesh until smooth. Let it cool slightly before moving on.

✅ Make the Dough: On a clean, lightly floured surface, combine the mashed sweet potato, egg, salt, nutmeg, and pepper. Gradually add the flour, mixing with your hands until a soft dough forms.

✅ Shape the Gnocchi: Divide the dough into 4 portions. Roll each portion into a long rope about ¾-inch in diameter. Cut the ropes into 1-inch pieces. For a traditional look, roll each piece over the tines of a fork to create small ridges.

✅ Cook the Gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully drop the gnocchi into the water in batches. When they float to the surface (about 2-3 minutes), they’re ready to remove. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a plate.

✅ Sauté in Butter: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the cooked gnocchi and sauté until golden and slightly crispy on the edges, about 3-5 minutes. If using, add the sage leaves in the last minute of cooking, allowing them to crisp up in the butter.

✅ Serve: Transfer the gnocchi to a serving dish. You can drizzle more melted butter on top or serve with Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.

How to Freeze Sweet Potato Gnocchi:

Prepare the Gnocchi: After shaping the gnocchi, spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This prevents them from sticking together.

Freeze Individually: Place the baking sheet in the freezer and freeze the gnocchi for about 1-2 hours or until they are firm.

Transfer to a Container: Once frozen, transfer the gnocchi to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. You can store them in a resealable freezer bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible.

Label and Store: Label the bag or container with the date, and store in the freezer.

How Long Can You Freeze Sweet Potato Gnocchi?

Up to 3 months in the freezer for best quality.

To Cook Frozen Gnocchi:

You don’t need to thaw the gnocchi before cooking. Simply drop the frozen gnocchi directly into boiling water. They’ll float to the surface once they’re cooked, just like fresh gnocchi. It may take a little longer to cook from frozen—about 3-4 minutes instead of the usual 2-3 minutes for fresh ones.

Nutritional Breakdown (per serving, based on 4 servings):

Calories: 250 kcal

Protein: 5g

Carbs: 45g

Fat: 8g (mainly from the butter)

Fiber: 5g

Sugar: 8g (natural sugars from the sweet potato)

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