Sweet Potato Gnocchi is a delightful twist on the traditional Italian dumpling, offering a comforting yet vibrant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes combined with the soft, pillowy texture of the gnocchi creates a deliciously satisfying experience. Tossed in a light sage butter sauce or served with a rich marinara, this recipe is versatile and full of flavor, making it a favorite for family dinners or cozy gatherings with friends.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will absolutely love this sweet potato gnocchi recipe because it strikes the perfect balance between comfort food and healthy eating. The sweet potatoes not only add a sweet and earthy flavor but also provide a boost of vitamins and fiber. Making gnocchi from scratch might seem intimidating, but this recipe is surprisingly easy, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal kitchen skills. Plus, it’s a great fit for a variety of diets, including vegetarian and gluten-free (with the right flour), making it a versatile addition to your meal rotation.
Tips and Tricks
- Choose the Right Sweet Potatoes: For the best texture, use starchy sweet potatoes, like the orange-fleshed variety. These will yield a softer gnocchi.
- Don’t Overwork the Dough: When mixing the ingredients, be gentle. Overworking can lead to dense gnocchi.
- Use Flour Sparingly: Only add flour as needed to keep the dough from sticking. Too much flour will make the gnocchi heavy.
- Test Cook a Few First: Before boiling all your gnocchi, test a couple in boiling water to check for texture and flavor.
Make Ahead Tips
You can easily prepare sweet potato gnocchi ahead of time. After shaping the gnocchi, let them cool on a floured baking sheet before freezing. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to cook, simply boil them straight from the freezer—no need to thaw!
Recipe Variations
- Herbed Gnocchi: Add finely chopped herbs such as rosemary or thyme into the dough for an aromatic twist.
- Cheesy Gnocchi: Incorporate grated parmesan or ricotta cheese into the dough for an extra flavor boost.
- Spiced Gnocchi: Mix in spices like nutmeg or cinnamon for a warming flavor that complements the sweetness of the potatoes.
How to Serve
Serve your sweet potato gnocchi with a drizzle of brown butter and sage, allowing the nutty flavors to enhance the dish. A sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan and a few crispy sage leaves on top will add both flavor and visual appeal. For an elegant presentation, plate the gnocchi in a shallow bowl and garnish with fresh herbs.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair your sweet potato gnocchi with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a light-bodied red like Pinot Noir. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling apple cider complements the dish beautifully. As for sides, consider a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or roasted seasonal vegetables to balance the sweetness of the gnocchi.
How to Store
Leftover sweet potato gnocchi can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’ve made a large batch, consider freezing them. Lay the gnocchi in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, gently boil them from frozen or sauté them in a pan with a little olive oil until heated through.
Equipment Needed
- A large pot for boiling the gnocchi
- A mixing bowl for the dough
- A fork or potato masher for mashing the sweet potatoes
- A floured surface for rolling and cutting the gnocchi
- A slotted spoon for removing them from the boiling water
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe vegan, simply replace the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) to help bind the dough. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour or a blend of almond flour and tapioca flour. Adjust the ratios as needed to achieve the correct dough consistency.
Seasonal Adaptations
During the summer months, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley to the dough for a burst of flavor. In the fall, pair the gnocchi with roasted Brussels sprouts or butternut squash for a seasonal twist. In winter, a hearty marinara or creamy Alfredo sauce can complement the sweet potatoes beautifully.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use pumpkin instead of sweet potato? Yes, pumpkin can be a great substitute, but make sure to use a thicker puree to maintain the right dough consistency.
- How long does it take to cook gnocchi? Fresh gnocchi typically cooks in 2-3 minutes. They are done when they float to the surface.
- What if my gnocchi dough is too sticky? If the dough is too sticky, gradually add more flour until it reaches a workable consistency, but be careful not to add too much.
How To Make sweet potato gnocchi recipe
Sweet Potato Gnocchi
Sweet Potato Gnocchi is a delightful twist on the traditional Italian dumpling, offering a comforting yet vibrant dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 medium sweet potatoes
- 1 large egg
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pierce the sweet potatoes with a fork and bake for 45-60 minutes, or until tender. Allow them to cool slightly, then scoop out the flesh and mash until smooth.
- Make the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, egg, salt, and nutmeg. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Shape the Gnocchi: On a floured surface, divide the dough into smaller portions. Roll each portion into a long rope about ¾ inch thick. Cut the ropes into 1-inch pieces. Use a fork to create ridges on each piece if desired.
- Boil the Gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Drop the gnocchi into the boiling water in batches. Cook until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon.
- Serve: Toss the gnocchi with a sauce of your choice, or simply with melted butter and sage. Enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 241Total Fat 2gSaturated Fat 1gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 1gCholesterol 47mgSodium 304mgCarbohydrates 48gFiber 3gSugar 4gProtein 8g
dinnerbytes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although dinnerbytes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Making sweet potato gnocchi from scratch is a rewarding experience that brings comforting flavors to your table. With just a few simple ingredients and some love, you can create a dish that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also fills the heart. Don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors and sauces to make it your own. Whether you’re enjoying it as a cozy weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a gathering, this sweet potato gnocchi recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite!
