Name: Savory Potato Maple Brown Butter Gnocchi for Cozy Nights
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 3 medium Sweet Potatoes (baked for optimal texture); 1.5 cups All-Purpose Flour (to create perfect dough consistency); 1 large Egg (beaten); 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt (to enhance flavor); 0.5 cups Unsalted Butter (one stick for brown butter flavor); 2 tablespoons Maple Syrup (Grade A dark amber for flavor); 6-8 leaves Fresh Sage Leaves (chopped); a pinch Cinnamon (for warm undertones); Salt & Black Pepper (to taste); 0.5 cups Parmigiano Reggiano (grated); Toasted Walnuts or Pecans (for crunch); Fried Sage Leaves (optional garnish)

As I watched the leaves dance to the ground, a memory of cozy autumn dinners filled my heart. This Sweet Potato Maple Brown Butter Gnocchi is my favorite way to celebrate the season’s bounty, bringing together humble ingredients like sweet potatoes and earthy sage into a dish that’s nothing short of magical. With its comforting flavors and pillowy texture, it’s not just a meal; it’s a heartfelt embrace on a chilly evening. This vegetarian delight is quick to prepare, perfect for both weeknight dinners and festive gatherings. Plus, you can easily make it ahead of time and even freeze it for later indulgence! Intrigued? Let’s dive into how to craft this irresistible fall dish that’s sure to impress your loved ones.

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Why is This Gnocchi Perfect for Fall?

Comforting Flavors: This dish combines the warm sweetness of sweet potatoes with the nutty richness of brown butter, creating a heavenly flavor explosion.

Easy to Make: With only a few simple steps, you’ll discover how straightforward it is to whip up this homemade delight.

Versatile & Freezable: You can adapt this recipe by using other squashes or even ricotta, making it a unique family favorite. Plus, it freezes beautifully for those busy nights!

Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors and optional toppings like sautéed sage and toasted nuts make it a showstopper for any gathering.

Perfect Pairing: Enjoy it alongside a fresh side salad or crusty bread, ensuring no bit of that scrumptious maple sauce goes to waste! If you’re looking for even more sweet potato ideas, check out our Peanut Butter Banana Baked Oatmeal Cups or Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies for cozy treats all season long.

Potato Maple Brown Butter Gnocchi Ingredients

For the Gnocchi
• Sweet Potatoes – Use about 3 medium-sized potatoes, baked for optimal texture.
• All-Purpose Flour – Approximately 1.5 cups will create a perfect dough consistency.
• Egg – One large beaten egg binds the ingredients together effectively.
• Kosher Salt – About 1 tsp enhances the overall flavor of the gnocchi.

For the Sauce
• Unsalted Butter – One stick (½ cup) is essential for achieving that rich, nutty brown butter flavor.
• Maple Syrup – Use 2 tablespoons of Grade A dark amber for a deep, sweet depth in the sauce.
• Fresh Sage Leaves – 6-8 chopped leaves bring aromatic sharpness that complements the sweet potatoes.
• Cinnamon – A pinch adds warm undertones to balance the sauce.
• Salt & Black Pepper – Add to taste for seasoning the sauce.

Optional Toppings
• Parmigiano Reggiano – About ½ cup, grated, adds a rich finish to the dish.
• Toasted Walnuts or Pecans – Sprinkle for a delightful crunch and extra texture.
• Fried Sage Leaves – Optional garnish that elevates the presentation beautifully.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Potato Maple Brown Butter Gnocchi

Step 1: Roast Sweet Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Puncture the skin of about three medium-sized sweet potatoes with a fork, then place them on a baking sheet. Roast for approximately 45 minutes, or until fork-tender. Allow them to cool slightly before peeling and either ricing or mashing them until smooth.

Step 2: Make the Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes with about 1.5 cups of all-purpose flour, a beaten egg, and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. Gently mix until a soft dough forms, being careful not to over-knead, as this can make your Potato Maple Brown Butter Gnocchi tough. Aim for a light and slightly sticky consistency.

Step 3: Shape the Gnocchi
Lightly flour a clean surface and divide your dough into manageable pieces. Roll each piece into a rope about 1 inch thick, then cut it into 1-inch sections. Optionally, use a fork or gnocchi board to create ridges on each piece for better sauce adherence. Set the shaped gnocchi aside on a floured tray.

Step 4: Cook Gnocchi
In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Gently add the gnocchi in batches, watching for them to float to the surface, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Once they float, remove them with a slotted spoon and transfer the cooked gnocchi to a bowl, ensuring they’re not overcrowded.

Step 5: Prepare Sauce
In a skillet over medium heat, melt one stick (½ cup) of unsalted butter until it begins to foam and turn golden brown, which takes about 5-7 minutes. Once it reaches a nutty aroma, add chopped fresh sage leaves, 2 tablespoons of maple syrup, a pinch of cinnamon, salt, and black pepper to taste. Stir to combine the flavors.

Step 6: Combine and Serve
Carefully toss the cooked gnocchi in the brown butter sauce, ensuring they are well-coated. Serve immediately, garnished with grated Parmigiano Reggiano, toasted walnuts or pecans, and crispy fried sage leaves if desired. This Potato Maple Brown Butter Gnocchi will warm your heart and delight your palate!

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Storage Tips for Sweet Potato Maple Brown Butter Gnocchi

Fridge: Store leftover gnocchi in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of water to restore moisture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze uncooked gnocchi on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag once solid. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, cook gnocchi straight from frozen in boiling salted water for an additional minute until they float.

Sauce Storage: If you have leftover brown butter sauce, refrigerate it in a sealed container for up to 5 days. Reheat on low heat before serving over your Sweet Potato Maple Brown Butter Gnocchi.

Make Ahead Options

These Sweet Potato Maple Brown Butter Gnocchi are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the gnocchi dough up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain its quality. For ultimate convenience, shape the gnocchi and freeze them on a parchment-lined tray; once solid, transfer them to a zip-top bag where they can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply boil the frozen gnocchi for an extra minute and toss them in the delicious brown butter sauce. This way, you can savor your homemade meal with minimal effort and just as much flavor!

Expert Tips for Potato Maple Brown Butter Gnocchi

• Bake Sweet Potatoes: Baking enhances flavor and reduces moisture, ensuring your Potato Maple Brown Butter Gnocchi comes out soft and pillowy.

• Watch Your Dough: Avoid over-kneading; this can make your gnocchi tough. Mix just until combined for the best results.

• Cooking Time: Gnocchi is ready when they float, usually 2-3 minutes. Overcooking can result in mushy dumplings, so keep an eye on them!

• Maple Syrup Matters: For the richest flavor, choose Grade A dark amber maple syrup. It truly elevates the sauce’s sweetness.

• Freezing Tips: Uncooked gnocchi can be frozen on a tray and stored in a bag for up to 3 months. Just add an extra minute to the boiling time when cooking from frozen.

What to Serve with Sweet Potato Maple Brown Butter Gnocchi

Complete your cozy autumn meal with delightful pairings that elevate this comforting dish into a memorable dining experience.

Crispy Kale Salad: A fresh salad with olive oil and lemon complements the richness of the gnocchi, bringing lightness to your plate.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The slight bitterness of roasted Brussels sprouts contrasts beautifully with the sweet maple flavors, creating a well-rounded meal.
Parmesan Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty bread topped with garlic and Parmesan is perfect for mopping up every last bit of that luscious brown butter sauce.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet, caramelized carrots provide an additional touch of sweetness, tying in beautifully with the sweet potatoes.
Creamy Mushroom Risotto: For a touch of indulgence, a creamy mushroom risotto adds depth and satisfies with its earthy flavors, making for a comforting combination.
Spiced Apple Cider: A warm drink infused with cinnamon and cloves provides a cozy beverage that mirrors the flavors of the gnocchi.
Pumpkin Pie Bars: Round off your meal with these sweet treats that echo fall flavors and deliver a delightful dessert experience with every bite.

Potato Maple Brown Butter Gnocchi Variations

Feel free to get creative and personalize your dish with these delightful twists!

Squash Swap: Use butternut or acorn squash instead of sweet potatoes for a slightly different sweetness and flavor.
Ricotta Gnocchi: Replace the sweet potatoes with fresh ricotta for a lighter, fluffy gnocchi experience that melts in your mouth.
Nutty Boost: Toss in some toasted pine nuts along with the walnuts for an even deeper crunch and a nutty flavor explosion.
Spice It Up: Add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes to the brown butter sauce for a warm, spicy kick that complements the sweetness.
Herby Freshness: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or parsley with the sage for added freshness and an herbal aroma that brightens the dish.
Pumpkin Spice: Swap in pure pumpkin puree instead of sweet potato, combined with a hint of nutmeg for an autumn-inspired twist that’s sure to satisfy.
Citrusy Zest: Enhance the sauce with a squeeze of lemon juice and some grated lemon zest for a refreshing contrast to the sweet flavors.
Maple-Walnut Sauce: Combine maple syrup with chopped walnuts in the sauce for an extra layer of richness that pairs beautifully with the gnocchi.

For more inspiration featuring sweet potatoes, don’t miss our delicious Peanut Butter Banana Bread or explore our Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies for other cozy fall treats!

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Sweet Potato Maple Brown Butter Gnocchi Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right sweet potatoes?
Absolutely! When selecting sweet potatoes, look for firm, smooth skins without any dark spots or blemishes. Medium-sized sweet potatoes work best for this recipe; they should feel heavy for their size, indicating moisture and sweetness.

What’s the best way to store leftover gnocchi?
Very good question! You can store leftover gnocchi in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply add a splash of water and warm them gently on the stove or microwave to prevent drying out.

Can I freeze the uncooked gnocchi?
Definitely! To freeze uncooked gnocchi, lay them out on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag and you can store them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, just boil them directly from the freezer, adding 1 extra minute to the boiling time.

What if my gnocchi dough is too sticky?
If your dough turns out too sticky, no worries! Simply sprinkle in a bit more flour, a tablespoon at a time, and gently knead until it reaches a soft, manageable consistency. Just be cautious not to over-knead, as that can lead to tough gnocchi.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Of course! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it has a good binding capability to hold the gnocchi together. Also, check the maple syrup and any toppings for gluten-free assurance.

Is this recipe safe for kids and pets?
Yes, this Sweet Potato Maple Brown Butter Gnocchi is kid-friendly and vegetarian. However, keep an eye on the toppings, especially nuts, as they pose a choking hazard for younger children and some pets. Also, avoid giving any dishes that contain onion, garlic, or certain spices to pets.