Name: Delicious Sweet Potato Gnocchi to Elevate Your Dinner Game
Prep time: 60 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 2 medium sweet potatoes (p peeled and scrubbed); 1 large egg (binds ingredients); 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated); 3/4 cup King Arthur Unbleached All-Purpose Flour (plus more for rolling); 2 tablespoons butter (for frying)

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As I peeled back the layers of those vibrant sweet potatoes, a wave of nostalgia washed over me—reminding me of cozy family gatherings filled with laughter and the irresistible smell of homemade pasta cooking away in the kitchen. One bite of these comforting Sweet Potato Gnocchi will transport you to those happy moments; they're not just easy to make but also a delightful twist on traditional gnocchi that everyone will rave about. With just a handful of ingredients and a preparation time of just over an hour, you can create a dish that is both a fun cooking adventure and a scrumptious meal—all while bringing a touch of warmth to your table. What’s your favorite topping for gnocchi? Let’s dive in and explore the deliciousness together!

Why is Sweet Potato Gnocchi a Must-Try?

Flavorful Comfort: Sweet potato brings a hint of natural sweetness, transforming traditional gnocchi into a cozy yet gourmet dish.

Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a satisfying meal that impresses family and friends alike.

Versatile Topping Options: You can pair it with a multitude of sauces or toppings, from creamy Alfredo to a drizzle of olive oil and fresh herbs, allowing for endless creativity!

Quick Preparation: In just over an hour, you can enjoy homemade goodness without the stress.

Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Whether it's a family dinner or a cozy gathering, everyone will love this unique and delicious twist on classic gnocchi.

Don’t forget to check out our guide on how to make delicious homemade sauces to elevate your gnocchi experience!

Sweet Potato Gnocchi Ingredients

For the Gnocchi
• Sweet potatoes – 2 medium (230g); their natural sweetness gives the gnocchi a delightful flavor.
• Large egg – 1; this binds the ingredients and adds richness to the dough.
• Parmesan cheese – ½ cup (50g), freshly grated; adds a savory depth that complements the sweet potato beautifully.
• King Arthur Unbleached All-Purpose Flour – ¾ cup (90g), plus more for rolling; helps form the dough and keep it from sticking.

For Frying
• Butter – 2 tablespoons (28g); for frying, it adds a golden crispiness and a rich flavor that enhances your Sweet Potato Gnocchi.

Prepare these ingredients, and let your kitchen fill with heartwarming aromas as you create this beloved family dish!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Step 1: Prepare Sweet Potatoes
Scrub and dry the sweet potatoes, then pierce them in several places with a fork. Microwave on full power for 8 to 9 minutes until tender or bake in a preheated 425°F oven for about 45 to 60 minutes. Let them cool slightly until you can handle them, making sure your kitchen fills with the comforting aroma of sweet potatoes.

Step 2: Scoop Out the Flesh
Once the sweet potatoes are cool enough to touch, carefully slice them lengthwise and scoop out the flesh using a spoon. Avoid any large pieces of skin to ensure a smooth texture. You should have about 1 ¼ cups of the soft sweet potato ready, which is the foundation of your delightful Sweet Potato Gnocchi.

Step 3: Mash the Sweet Potatoes
Using a potato ricer or a fork, press or mash the sweet potato flesh until it is light and fluffy, free of lumps. Allow it to cool until lukewarm while you gather the remaining ingredients. This step is vital to create a silky dough that will yield tender and flavorful gnocchi.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, blend the cooled sweet potato flesh with one large egg, ensuring it is well combined. The egg adds richness and binds the sweet potato, making it creamy and cohesive. This mixture will serve as the base of your Sweet Potato Gnocchi dough, bursting with flavor and warmth.

Step 5: Mix in Cheese and Flour
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the freshly grated Parmesan and the all-purpose flour. Gently mix this flour mixture into the sweet potato and egg blend until a soft dough forms. It’s perfectly fine if some flour remains in the bowl; just don’t over-knead it. Your dough is coming together wonderfully!

Step 6: Rest the Dough
Once your dough is formed, cover it with plastic wrap and let it rest for about 10 minutes. Meanwhile, bring 2 quarts of water to a rolling boil in a large pot. Additionally, melt the 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. This step prepares the stage for cooking your Sweet Potato Gnocchi beautifully.

Step 7: Shape the Gnocchi
Divide the rested dough into three equal pieces, then roll each piece into smaller sections about ½" wide and 1" long. Ensure you work on a floured surface to prevent sticking, and maintain the comforting, tender nature of the dough. Your crafted pieces are the stars of this delicious dish.

Step 8: Create Grooves
Roll each gnocchi piece in a bit of flour to keep them from sticking together and use a gnocchi board or fork to create little grooves on each piece. These grooves will help the sauce cling beautifully to your Sweet Potato Gnocchi, enhancing every bite with flavor.

Step 9: Cook the Gnocchi
Gently drop the shaped gnocchi into the boiling water and stir lightly to prevent them from sticking. The gnocchi will sink to the bottom initially, but after a few minutes, they will float to the surface. Once floating, cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes to achieve that perfect tender texture.

Step 10: Fry the Gnocchi
Using a slotted spoon, carefully transfer the cooked gnocchi to the hot butter in your skillet. Fry them for about 2 to 3 minutes, until they turn golden brown on one side, then flip and cook for another minute or so. Once crispy and beautifully colored, your Sweet Potato Gnocchi is ready to be served warm with more Parmesan or your favorite sauce!

Make Ahead Options

These Sweet Potato Gnocchi are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance, just be sure to refrigerate it tightly wrapped in plastic wrap to maintain its moisture and prevent drying out. Additionally, shaped, uncooked gnocchi can be frozen for up to 3 months: simply place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to serve, cook directly from frozen in boiling water for an extra minute. This way, your homemade Sweet Potato Gnocchi will be just as delicious, saving you time on busy weeknights!

What to Serve with Sweet Potato Gnocchi?

There's nothing quite like the delightful textures and flavors of homemade meals, and Sweet Potato Gnocchi is no exception!

Creamy Sage Butter: The warm, herbal notes of sage combined with rich butter finish the gnocchi beautifully, elevating each fluffy bite.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Adding a crispy texture, these savory, caramelized sprouts provide a perfect contrast, enhancing the sweet potato's natural sweetness.
Garlic Bread: A crunchy, buttery side that encourages you to savor every spoonful, it’s the ideal vehicle for pairing with sauces and soaking up deliciousness.
Fresh Arugula Salad: The peppery greens tossed with a zesty vinaigrette offer a refreshing contrast, balancing the richness of the gnocchi wonderfully.
Parmesan Crisps: These make for a delightful crunchy topping, adding both flavor and textural contrast that will have everyone reaching for more.
Red Wine: A light Pinot Noir or a Chianti enhances the flavor profile, making for a heartwarming pairing that connects well with the sweet undertones of the gnocchi.
Chocolate Mousse: Finish your meal with a light and airy chocolate mousse, offering a sweet finale that complements the gnocchi's warmth and comfort.

Enjoy the blissful experience of creating an unforgettable meal around your Sweet Potato Gnocchi!

How to Store and Freeze Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Fridge: Store cooked Sweet Potato Gnocchi in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet with a little butter over medium heat until warmed through.

Freezer: Freeze uncooked gnocchi on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months. Cook from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the boiling time.

Reheating: To reheat frozen cooked gnocchi, simmer in water for about 3–5 minutes until they float. Alternatively, sauté them directly in a skillet for a crispy exterior.

Freshness Tip: Always let cooked gnocchi cool completely before storing, which helps maintain texture and flavor.

Expert Tips for Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Select the Right Sweet Potatoes: Choose firm and unblemished sweet potatoes for the best texture and flavor. Avoid any that have soft spots or sprouting, as they can affect your gnocchi.
Avoid Over-Kneading: When mixing the flour and potato, gently combine until just incorporated. Over-kneading can lead to dense gnocchi instead of light and fluffy ones.
Proper Cooking Time: When your gnocchi floats, remember to cook it for 1-2 additional minutes to ensure thorough cooking and the right texture without becoming mushy.
Use Enough Flour for Rolling: Don’t skimp on the flour when shaping the gnocchi. This prevents sticking and maintains the shape. Just sprinkle as needed to keep your workspace dry.
Experiment with Sauces: This Sweet Potato Gnocchi pairs wonderfully with both savory and sweet sauces. Try brown butter with sage for a classic touch or a creamy garlic sauce for a rich option.

Sweet Potato Gnocchi Variations

Feel free to experiment and elevate your Sweet Potato Gnocchi with these delightful twists!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or almond flour for a lighter option. Your gnocchi will have its own unique texture while remaining scrumptious!
Dairy-Free: Replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative to keep the dish creamy without the dairy. This allows everyone to enjoy a plant-based version bursting with flavor.
Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like sage, thyme, or rosemary to your dough for an aromatic punch. This adds a lovely depth of flavor that complements sweetness beautifully.
Veggie Boost: Mix in finely grated carrots or zucchini to the dough for added nutrition and texture. Not only does it make the gnocchi vibrant, but it also contributes to a flavorful twist that’s hard to resist.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper into the dough for an unexpected heat that balances the sweetness. It's a fantastic way to surprise those taste buds!
Sweet Variation: For a dessert twist, replace the savory ingredients with cinnamon and nutmeg, sleek them with a drizzle of maple syrup after frying. This transforms your gnocchi into a delightful evening treat that's sure to impress!
Nutty Crunch: Add toasted pine nuts or walnuts to your sauce for a textural contrast against the soft dumplings. This brings a satisfying crunch that alongside the fluffy gnocchi creates a symphony of textures for every bite.
Sauce Match: Explore different sauces, like a butter sage sauce or a spicy marinara. Experimenting with your sauce can completely change the flavor profile and keep this dish exciting for repeated meals!

With these variations, your Sweet Potato Gnocchi won't just be a meal; it’ll be a thrilling culinary adventure! Don't forget to try some of these tasty ideas as you load your plate high with comforting deliciousness.

Sweet Potato Gnocchi Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe sweet potatoes for my gnocchi?
Absolutely! When selecting sweet potatoes, look for ones that are firm and free from blemishes or soft spots. A little bit of dryness on the skin is fine, but avoid any that have sprouted or show signs of decay, as they can affect the texture and sweetness of your Sweet Potato Gnocchi.

How should I store leftover Sweet Potato Gnocchi?
You can store your cooked Sweet Potato Gnocchi in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy them again, reheat gently in a skillet with a bit of butter over medium heat, which revitalizes the flavor while keeping them pillowy and delicious.

Can I freeze Sweet Potato Gnocchi, and how?
Very! To freeze uncooked gnocchi, lay them out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and place them in the freezer until solid, about 1 to 2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 2 months. When you're ready to cook, drop the frozen gnocchi directly into boiling water and add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time for perfectly fluffy results.

What should I do if my gnocchi is too sticky or mushy?
If your Sweet Potato Gnocchi dough ends up too sticky, it could be because there’s too much moisture in the sweet potatoes or not enough flour. I recommend sprinkling in more flour gradually until the dough is manageable but still soft. On the other hand, if they become mushy while cooking, ensure they float to the surface and cook for just an additional 1-2 minutes to avoid overcooking.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Certainly! If you have dietary restrictions, you can make the Sweet Potato Gnocchi gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Also, the recipe contains eggs and dairy (Parmesan cheese), so be mindful of allergies. For a vegan version, you might try substituting the egg with a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) and using nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

How do I reheat frozen cooked gnocchi effectively?
To reheat frozen cooked gnocchi, simmer them in boiling water for about 3 to 5 minutes until they float to the surface, indicating they are warmed through. For a deliciously crispy twist, you can also sauté them in a skillet with a touch of olive oil or butter for a few minutes, achieving that golden exterior while keeping the insides tender.