Gnocchi with sage butter is a beloved Italian dish. It pairs soft potato dumplings with a fragrant brown butter sauce. You can make this gourmet meal at home in 15-35 minutes, using either store-bought or homemade gnocchi.
The dish is made with crispy gnocchi, browned butter, and fried sage leaves. This combination creates a rich, flavorful experience. It’s like a taste of Italy right in your kitchen.
Key Takeaways
- Homemade gnocchi with sage butter is a classic Italian dish that can be prepared in 15-35 minutes.
- The dish features crispy pan-fried gnocchi, browned butter, and fried sage leaves for a rich and flavorful experience.
- This restaurant-quality meal can be made at home using either store-bought or homemade gnocchi.
- The recipe calls for high-quality, fresh ingredients to achieve the perfect texture and taste.
- The dish is versatile and can be customized with various garnishes and serving suggestions.
Introduction to Traditional Italian Gnocchi
Gnocchi is a favorite in the Italian culinary tradition. It’s made from potatoes, flour, and eggs. This homemade pasta is soft and fluffy, unlike store-bought versions.
History of Gnocchi Making
Gnocchi’s roots go back to ancient Rome. Over time, different types emerged. Ricotta gnocchi is considered the top choice, even before potato pasta became popular. In the U.S., gnocchi has gained fans over the last ten years.
Why Homemade Gnocchi is Superior
Making handmade gnocchi at home gives you control over ingredients and process. This leads to a softer, fluffier texture than store-bought. The secret is choosing the right potato, kneading it just right, and cooking it carefully.
Basic Components of Perfect Gnocchi
- Starchy potatoes (around 2 pounds or 2 large russets)
- Lightly beaten egg (approximately 1/4 cup)
- Unbleached all-purpose flour (about 1 cup)
With the right mix of these ingredients and the right cooking, home cooks can make gnocchi as good as any Italian chef’s.
Essential Ingredients for Gnocchi with Sage Butter
Making the perfect potato gnocchi with a tasty sage butter sauce needs the right ingredients. The key to this classic Italian dish is the quality of its parts. These parts add flavor and texture.
To make the potato gnocchi, you’ll need russet potatoes, all-purpose flour, egg, salt, and nutmeg. These ingredients mix to make soft dumplings. They are the base of the dish.
The sage butter sauce needs a few important things to stand out. Unsalted butter is the main ingredient, giving a creamy base. Fresh sage leaves add a special aroma and a bit of spice. Garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper complete the flavors, making a perfect mix.
You can also add grated Parmesan cheese on top. It brings a savory, nutty taste that goes well with the sage butter sauce.
By choosing and preparing these potato gnocchi and sage butter sauce ingredients well, you’re on your way to a delicious Italian meal.
Equipment and Kitchen Tools Needed
Making delicious homemade gnocchi with sage butter sauce needs the right tools. We’ll look at the must-have utensils and some optional tools that help. This guide will help you make this classic Italian dish.
Must-Have Utensils
- Large pot for boiling the gnocchi
- Frying pan, preferably cast iron, for crisping the gnocchi
- Slotted spoon for retrieving the cooked gnocchi
- Sharp knife for slicing garlic and other garnishes
Optional but Helpful Tools
While you need the basics, some extra tools can make things easier:
- Potato ricer for a smooth gnocchi dough
- Kitchen scale for precise ingredient measurements
- Non-slip silicone pastry mat for rolling and shaping
- Adjustable rolling pin with removable rings for even thickness
- Gnocchi board or fork for the signature ridges
Surface Preparation Requirements
A clean, dry, and floured surface is key for rolling and shaping gnocchi. It prevents the dough from sticking, helping you make perfect gnocchi.
With the right tools and a clean workspace, you’re ready to make homemade gnocchi with sage butter sauce.
Step-by-Step Gnocchi Preparation
Making homemade gnocchi is a fun and rewarding process. It lets you create a delicious dish with your own special touch. You can use fresh potatoes or store-bought ones, and the gnocchi-making process is easy and effective.
To make the dough from scratch, mix mashed potatoes, flour, and eggs in a big bowl. Knead the mix until it’s soft and easy to work with. Then, roll it into ropes and cut into small pieces. If using store-bought gnocchi, just boil them until they float.
After cooking the gnocchi, drain them well to remove excess water. Then, pan-fry them in a hot skillet until they’re golden and crispy. This step makes them extra tasty and adds a nice crunch.
| Nutrition Facts | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Total Fat | 16g |
| Saturated Fat | 6g |
| Calories | 281 |
| Total Carbohydrates | 29g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g |
| Total Sugar | 1g |
| Protein | 6g |
Now that your gnocchi are ready, it’s time to add the brown butter and sage sauce. This will bring out the best flavors and textures. Share your homemade gnocchi with loved ones and enjoy the authentic Italian taste in your kitchen.
Mastering the Perfect Brown Butter Sage Sauce
Making the ultimate brown butter sage sauce is easy yet impressive. It can make your homemade gnocchi dish even better. The secret is in browning the butter right and using fresh sage leaves just right.
Proper Butter Browning Technique
Start by melting 8 tablespoons of unsalted European-style butter in a medium skillet over medium heat. Let it melt slowly, stirring the pan now and then. It should turn light golden-brown and smell nutty in about 4-6 minutes. Watch it closely, as it can burn quickly.
Sage Selection and Preparation
While the butter browns, get 12-15 fresh sage leaves ready. Add them to the hot butter and fry for 2 minutes until crisp. Then, add 1/2 teaspoon of minced garlic and cook for another minute. The sage and garlic will mix well with the browned butter.
Timing and Temperature Control
Timing and temperature are key for the perfect sauce. Keep the heat steady at medium to avoid burning the butter. Watch the sage leaves, as they can become bitter if cooked too long. The whole process should take about 10 minutes to get the flavors just right.
“The key to a truly exceptional brown butter sage sauce lies in the balance of flavors and the perfect timing of the butter browning process.”
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Unsalted European-style Butter | 8 Tbsp |
| Fresh Sage Leaves | 12-15 |
| Garlic, minced | 1/2 tsp |
Gnocchi with Sage Butter Recipe
Get ready to enjoy a classic Italian pasta dish with this gnocchi sage butter recipe. It has a soft, velvety texture and a delicious sage butter sauce. This sauce will make you feel like you’re in Italy.
This recipe was first shared on August 26, 2020, and updated on July 29, 2021. It quickly became a hit with over 11.0K shares. The secret is simple: just sweet potato, flour, and salt. Plus, the right cooking technique.
- Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the gnocchi and cook for 3-5 minutes, until they float.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the cooked gnocchi and pan-fry for 5-6 minutes, until golden brown.
- Remove the gnocchi from the pan and set aside. In the same pan, melt 75g (⅓ cup) of unsalted butter over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it turns a light brown and develops a nutty aroma, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add 20 fresh sage leaves and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant. Then, stir in 2 sliced garlic cloves and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Return the cooked gnocchi to the pan and toss to coat evenly with the sage butter sauce. Season with salt, pepper, the zest of 1 lemon, and the juice of half a lemon.
- Serve the gnocchi with sage butter immediately, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
This recipe serves 4 people and takes about 15-25 minutes to prepare. For a gluten-free version, use a 1-1 gluten-free flour blend from brands like Bob’s Red Mill or Cup 4 Cup.
“The key to perfect gnocchi is the right balance of sweet potato, flour, and a light touch. This sage butter sauce elevates the dish to new heights of Italian culinary delight.”
Enjoy this Italian pasta dish as a comforting and satisfying meal, perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender gnocchi and the rich, fragrant sage butter sauce is sure to become a new family favorite.
Tips for Achieving the Perfect Texture
Getting the right texture for your homemade gnocchi is crucial. You might want them crispy or fluffy. Here are some tips to help you.
For crispy gnocchi, make sure they’re dry after boiling. Fry them in a pan without stirring to get a golden crust. A cast-iron pan works best for crispiness.
For fluffy gnocchi, don’t overwork the dough. Cook them until they float in boiling water. This means they’re ready for your sauce.
Pairing your gnocchi with a brown butter sage sauce is great. This sauce brings out the gnocchi’s softness and crispiness.
“The key to perfect gnocchi is to handle the dough as little as possible. Overworking the dough can result in tough, dense gnocchi – the exact opposite of what you want.”
By following these tips, you can make gnocchi that are just right. Whether you like them crispy or soft, you’ll get it right.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making perfect gnocchi can be tricky, even for experienced cooks. Knowing the common mistakes helps you fix gnocchi troubleshooting and steer clear of cooking errors.
Dough Consistency Issues
One big mistake is overworking the dough, making it tough and chewy. It’s important to handle the dough gently and not over-knead. Also, the right mix of flour and potatoes is key. Too much flour makes gnocchi dense, while too little makes them sticky.
Cooking Temperature Problems
Another common mistake is overcooking gnocchi. If the water boils too hard, gnocchi can become mushy. To fix this, keep the water at a gentle simmer and cook in small batches.
Sauce-Related Pitfalls
With the sage butter sauce, the main issues are burning the butter and handling the sage leaves. Watch the butter closely to prevent burning. Add the sage just right to crisp it up without bitterness.
By avoiding these common gnocchi troubleshooting and cooking errors, you’ll make delicious homemade gnocchi with a tasty sage butter sauce. With practice and attention to detail, you’ll soon be serving top-notch gnocchi.
Storing and Freezing Instructions
Enjoying homemade gnocchi doesn’t have to end after one meal. With the right storage, you can enjoy your pasta for days. Here’s how to keep your gnocchi fresh and tasty.
Refrigerating Cooked Gnocchi
Cooked gnocchi can stay in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pan-fry them in butter until they’re warm and crispy.
Freezing Uncooked Gnocchi
You can freeze uncooked gnocchi for longer storage. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for an hour. Then, put them in an airtight container or bag. Frozen gnocchi lasts up to 2 months.
To cook, just boil the frozen gnocchi. No thawing needed. They’ll cook in 2-3 minutes, just like fresh ones.
Learning how to store gnocchi means you can enjoy them for a long time. Whether you refrigerate or freeze, these tips will help you enjoy homemade gnocchi whenever you want.
Serving Suggestions and Presentation
Presenting your homemade gnocchi with sage butter can make a big difference. Serve the gnocchi in warm bowls to keep them at the right temperature. Add a few extra sage leaves, some Parmesan cheese, and black pepper on top.
For a burst of color and taste, add lemon zest or chopped parsley. This will make your dish look and taste even better.
Plating Techniques
Place the gnocchi in the bowl’s center. Let the sage butter sauce flow around them. This makes the dish look great, showing off the gnocchi and butter.
You can also arrange the gnocchi in a circle or scatter them for a rustic feel. Both ways look good and add to the dish’s charm.
Garnish Options
- Extra crisp sage leaves
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Lemon zest
- Chopped fresh parsley
Offer lemon wedges on the side. This lets guests add a bit of acidity to balance the dish. This simple touch will impress your guests and show off your gnocchi plating and Italian dish presentation skills.
| Preparation Time | Cooking Time | Serving Size |
|---|---|---|
| 10 minutes | 2 hours and 20 minutes | 4-6 servings |
“Mastering the art of gnocchi plating is the ultimate way to elevate this beloved Italian dish.”
Variations and Alternative Ingredients
The classic homemade gnocchi with sage butter sauce is a favorite in Italy. But, it’s even more fun because you can try many gnocchi variations and alternative sauces. This lets you make the dish your own, based on what you like and need.
Want more protein? Try adding pan-fried Italian sausage to your gnocchi. The sausage’s savory and spicy flavors mix well with the buttery sauce. Or, swap out the sage for rosemary or thyme for a different taste.
Looking for a lighter version? Use olive oil instead of butter for the sauce. This makes the dish less fatty and adds a fruity taste. Adding roasted cherry tomatoes or sautéed spinach brings freshness and color.
Need something vegan or dairy-free? Use plant-based butter and skip the Parmesan cheese. Try nut-based or coconut-based butters for a creamy sauce without dairy.
There are countless ways to make gnocchi variations and alternative sauces. This lets you tailor the classic Italian dish to your liking. Whether you like it hearty or light, gnocchi is always a treat.
Wine Pairing Recommendations
Pairing wine with homemade gnocchi and sage butter sauce is best with Italian wines. A light to medium-bodied white wine, like Pinot Grigio, Soave, or Vermentino, works well. These wines complement the gnocchi and sage beautifully.
Red wine lovers will enjoy Chianti or Valpolicella. These wines have vibrant acidity and moderate tannins. They balance the dish’s richness without overpowering it. Regional Italian wines like Aglianico and Greco di Tufo Novaserra are also great choices.
Sparkling wines, such as Chardonnay sparklers, Cava, and Crémant de Bourgogne, add a refreshing touch. Domaine Régnard in Burgundy offers excellent Chardonnay-based sparkling wines. They pair perfectly with gnocchi and sage butter.
| Wine Pairing | Gnocchi Sauce |
|---|---|
| Pinot Grigio, Soave, Vermentino | Sage Butter |
| Chianti, Valpolicella | Sage Butter |
| Chardonnay Sparklers, Cava, Crémant de Bourgogne | Sage Butter |
| Aglianico, Greco di Tufo Novaserra | Tomato-based Sauces |
| Pinot Noir, Syrah, Zinfandel | Mushroom-based Sauces |
| Pecorino, Chardonnay, Lugana | Creamy Sauces (Alfredo, Pesto) |
Choosing the right Italian wine pairings can enhance your dining experience. It brings out the best in your homemade gnocchi wine suggestions.
Nutritional Information and Dietary Considerations
When you enjoy homemade gnocchi nutrition, it’s key to know the details. Our Homemade Gnocchi with Sage Butter recipe has about 445 calories. It also has 32.9 grams of total fat and 19.8 grams of saturated fat. This dish is vegetarian but contains gluten and dairy.
If you’re gluten-free, you can use gluten-free gnocchi instead. For those with dairy issues, plant-based milk or cream can replace traditional dairy in the sauce. These changes make the dish more accessible for different diets.
The dish is high in calories and fat, mainly because of the butter in the sauce. But, it’s okay to enjoy it in small amounts as part of a balanced diet. Pairing it with a light salad or roasted veggies can help control calorie intake.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 445 |
| Total Fat | 32.9 g |
| Saturated Fat | 19.8 g |
| Trans Fat | 0.3 g |
| Cholesterol | 197.5 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 27.0 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.2 g |
| Total Sugars | 0.4 g |
| Sodium | 361.7 mg |
| Protein | 11.2 g |
By controlling portion sizes and using healthier ingredients, you can enjoy this gnocchi nutrition dish. It meets your dietary information needs while still being delicious.
Conclusion
Homemade gnocchi with sage butter is a true culinary delight. It highlights the best of Italian cuisine. You can choose between store-bought or handmade gnocchi, both offer a perfect mix of textures and flavors.
The dish’s crisp exteriors and soft interiors are enhanced by the rich brown butter sage sauce. This sauce adds a fragrant touch to each bite.
This Italian cuisine dish is both impressive and easy to make. With just a few ingredients and some basic techniques, you can make your cooking as good as a restaurant. The gnocchi recipe summary here will guide you through making this comforting meal.
Enjoy the tender gnocchi and the aromatic brown butter sage sauce. Savor the authentic homemade Italian cuisine in your own home. This recipe is perfect for a main course or a side dish. It’s sure to impress and leave your guests wanting more.
FAQ
What is gnocchi with sage butter?
Gnocchi with sage butter is a classic Italian dish. It combines soft potato dumplings with a rich brown butter sauce.
How long does it take to make this dish?
You can make this dish at home in 15-35 minutes. This depends on whether you use store-bought or homemade gnocchi.
What are the key components of the dish?
The dish has crispy pan-fried gnocchi, browned butter, and fried sage leaves. These elements create a rich and flavorful experience.
What is the difference between homemade and store-bought gnocchi?
Homemade gnocchi are softer and fluffier than store-bought ones. The secret to perfect gnocchi includes the right potato, proper kneading, and cooking method.
What are the essential ingredients for this dish?
You’ll need fresh gnocchi, unsalted butter, and fresh sage leaves. Also, lemon zest and juice, garlic, salt, pepper, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese are key.
What tools are needed to make this dish?
You’ll need a large pot for boiling gnocchi and a frying pan for crisping. A slotted spoon and sharp knife for garlic are also essential. A potato ricer can help with smoother dough.
How do you make the brown butter sage sauce?
Melt butter in a pan over medium heat until it turns light brown and smells nutty. Add fresh sage leaves and cook for 2 minutes. Then, add sliced garlic and cook for another minute.
What is the recipe for gnocchi with sage butter?
Boil 500g gnocchi until it floats. Pan-fry in 2 tbsp olive oil until golden (5-6 minutes). Remove gnocchi, then brown 75g butter in the same pan. Add 20 sage leaves, cook 2 minutes. Add 2 sliced garlic cloves, cook 1 minute. Return gnocchi to pan, add salt and pepper. Cook 1 minute. Finish with lemon zest and juice. Serve with optional Parmesan. Total time: 15-25 minutes. Serves 4.
What are the tips for achieving the perfect texture?
For crispy gnocchi, ensure they’re well-drained after boiling. Pan-fry without stirring to develop a golden crust. Use a cast-iron pan for optimal crispiness. For fluffy interiors, avoid overworking the dough if making homemade gnocchi. Cook until they float to the surface when boiling.
What are the common mistakes to avoid?
Avoid overworking the dough to prevent tough gnocchi. Also, don’t overcook, as it makes gnocchi mushy. For the sauce, watch the butter closely to prevent burning, and don’t overcook the sage.
How do you store and reheat gnocchi?
Cooked gnocchi keeps in the refrigerator for three days. To reheat, pan-fry with a little butter. Uncooked gnocchi can be frozen on a parchment-lined tray, then transferred to an airtight container. Frozen gnocchi lasts up to 2 months. Cook from frozen by adding directly to boiling water.
How should the dish be served?
Serve gnocchi in warm bowls to maintain temperature. Garnish with extra sage leaves, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, and freshly ground black pepper. Consider adding a light dusting of lemon zest or chopped fresh parsley for color and flavor.
What are some variations and alternative ingredients?
Try adding pan-fried Italian sausage for extra protein. Use different herbs like rosemary or thyme instead of sage. Use olive oil instead of butter for a lighter version. Experiment with adding vegetables like spinach or roasted cherry tomatoes. Vegan alternatives can use plant-based butter and omit the Parmesan.
What wine pairings are recommended?
Pair gnocchi with sage butter with a light to medium-bodied white wine. Italian varieties like Pinot Grigio, Soave, or Vermentino work well. For red wine lovers, a light Chianti or Valpolicella complements the dish without overpowering the delicate flavors.
What are the nutritional facts and dietary considerations?
Per serving (based on 4 servings), the dish contains approximately 404 calories, 46g carbohydrates, 5g protein, 23g fat, 11g saturated fat, 40mg cholesterol, and 581mg sodium. The dish is vegetarian-friendly but contains gluten and dairy. For gluten-free options, use gluten-free gnocchi.
