Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I let the steam from my freshly boiled sweet potatoes fill the kitchen with a warm, earthy aroma, I couldn’t help but think about the joy of crafting homemade meals. This Sweet Potato Gnocchi is a delightful invitation to celebrate comfort food in its most heartwarming form. Each fluffy bite is a perfect blend of natural sweetness and the savory richness of Parmesan cheese, making it an irresistible dish for both cozy nights in and special gatherings. With just a handful of pantry staples, this recipe promises quick prep without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re aiming for a crowd-pleaser or simply a nourishing dinner option, you’ve stumbled upon the perfect solution. Curious about how to shape these little pillows of goodness? Let’s dive into the delicious details! Why is Sweet Potato Gnocchi So Special? Comforting: This recipe is a warm hug in a bowl, combining the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the salty richness of Parmesan. Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be whipping up this gnocchi quicker than you can say “takeout.” Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for family dinners or cozy get-togethers, everyone will love these fluffy gnocchi. Versatile: Pair it with any sauce of your choice or just a drizzle of brown butter for a quick, yet gourmet touch. If you’re looking for more delicious comfort food, try our Sweet Savory Slow dish or a hearty Cheesy Hamburger Potato. Nutritious: Packed with nutrients, sweet potatoes offer a healthy choice that won’t weigh you down. Unique Flavor: The combination of sweet and savory makes each bite an experience you won’t forget! Sweet Potato Gnocchi Ingredients • For the Dough Sweet Potatoes – Provides the primary flavor and texture; medium-sized sweet potatoes yield the best results. Egg – Binds the ingredients together and enriches the dough; this ingredient is key for structure. Parmesan Cheese – Adds depth of flavor; substitute with pecorino if you desire a different savory note. King Arthur Unbleached All-Purpose Flour – Gives the gnocchi its structure; for a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend. • For Frying Butter – Adds richness and crispiness to the gnocchi’s exterior; clarified butter provides a deeper, smokier flavor if you prefer. This Sweet Potato Gnocchi recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy comforting, delicious meals made with love! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sweet Potato Gnocchi Step 1: Cook Sweet Potatoes Begin by cooking your medium-sized sweet potatoes in the microwave for about 8-10 minutes until they are tender, or bake them in an oven preheated to 425°F for 45-60 minutes. Once cooked, allow them to cool slightly before peeling away the skin. The sweet potatoes should be soft and easy to handle, providing a delightful foundation for your sweet potato gnocchi. Step 2: Mash the Sweet Potatoes Using a potato ricer or a simple masher, process the cooked sweet potatoes into a light, fluffy texture. Aim for a smooth consistency, as this will ensure your gnocchi achieves the perfect airy quality. If you don’t have a ricer, mashing thoroughly with a fork can also work well. Set the fluffy mash aside to cool slightly before moving to the next step. Step 3: Combine Ingredients In a mixing bowl, blend the lukewarm sweet potato puree with a beaten egg until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated. This adds richness and helps bind the sweet potato gnocchi together. Take your time with this step; the more integrated the egg is, the more cohesive your dough will become. Step 4: Prepare the Dry Ingredients In a separate bowl, gently whisk together freshly grated Parmesan cheese and all-purpose flour, creating an aromatic blend. Then, gradually pour this mixture into your sweet potato-egg combination. Use a spatula to fold everything together, forming a soft dough. The mixture should be slightly sticky but manageable, which is essential for crafting your delicious sweet potato gnocchi. Step 5: Rest the Dough Once your dough comes together, cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and allow it to rest for about 20 minutes. This short resting period helps relax the gluten in the flour, leading to a tender texture in your sweet potato gnocchi. Meanwhile, begin boiling a large pot of water on the stove. Step 6: Shape the Gnocchi After resting, dust your countertop with flour and roll portions of the dough into long ropes, about ½ inch thick. Cut the ropes into small pieces, then use a gnocchi board or the tines of a fork to create texture. This step is crucial for capturing sauce later, so take your time to shape those sweet little pillows of goodness. Step 7: Boil the Gnocchi Once your water is at a rolling boil, gently add the shaped gnocchi. They will initially sink, but as they cook, you’ll see them floating to the surface within 1-2 minutes. This visual cue indicates they are ready to be removed. Use a slotted spoon to carefully transfer them to a plate while you prepare for frying. Step 8: Fry the Gnocchi In a large skillet over medium heat, melt some butter until it begins to foam. Add the boiled gnocchi to the skillet, frying them for about 4-5 minutes until they turn golden brown and develop a crispy exterior. The satisfying aroma wafting from the pan will surely have your family flocking to the kitchen, eager to enjoy this homemade sweet potato gnocchi. Expert Tips for Sweet Potato Gnocchi Avoid Overworking: Keep the dough light and fluffy by mixing just until combined. Overworking can lead to dense gnocchi that lack the desired airy texture. Right Cooking Temp: Make sure your sweet potatoes are cooked through but not overcooked. Check for doneness by piercing them with a fork; they should be soft but not falling apart. Perfect Floating Indicator: Watch for the gnocchi to float in boiling water. This typically takes 1-2 minutes; once they float, they are ready to be removed to avoid mushiness. Texture Matter: When shaping the gnocchi, don’t skip the fork or gnocchi board. This step creates grooves that help hold onto sauces, ensuring each bite is flavorful. Frying for Flavor: For the best experience, fry the boiled gnocchi in butter until golden brown. This enhances their flavor significantly, making your sweet potato gnocchi even more delightful! What to Serve with Sweet Potato Gnocchi Create a memorable dining experience by pairing delicious accompaniments that enhance the flavors of your gnocchi. Creamy Garlic Spinach: This dish combines rich cream and sautéed spinach, providing a silky contrast to the chewy gnocchi while adding a burst of color and nutrients. Savory Sage Brown Butter: Drizzling brown butter infused with fresh sage over your gnocchi elevates the dish beautifully, introducing nutty flavors that marry perfectly with the sweetness of the potatoes. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized, crispy Brussels sprouts add a satisfying crunch and an earthy taste that contrasts well with the tender gnocchi, making every bite exciting and fulfilling. Simple Arugula Salad: A peppery arugula salad, dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette, adds freshness and cuts through the richness of the gnocchi, balancing the meal with each crisp bite. Parmesan Crusty Bread: Serve alongside slices of crispy bread topped with melted Parmesan for a delightful crunch that complements the softness of the gnocchi, making every bite a true joy. Sparkling White Wine: A chilled glass of sparkling white wine brings a refreshing brightness, enhancing the overall flavor profile and making your dining experience feel extra special. Chocolate Lava Cake: For dessert, indulge in a warm chocolate lava cake that contrasts beautifully with your meal’s savory elements, providing a rich and sweet finale that everyone will love. Make Ahead Options These Sweet Potato Gnocchi are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the gnocchi dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before cooking them. Simply roll and cut the gnocchi, then store them in an airtight container lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking. If you’re planning further ahead, uncooked gnocchi can be frozen for up to three months; boil them directly from frozen for a quick meal without sacrificing flavor or texture. When ready to serve, just fry them as instructed, and you’ll have a comforting dish ready in no time, making weeknight dinners a breeze! How to Store and Freeze Sweet Potato Gnocchi Fridge: Store uncooked sweet potato gnocchi in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for a quick dinner! Freezer: For longer preservation, freeze cooked sweet potato gnocchi in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to a month. Reheating: To enjoy leftover gnocchi, simply sauté them in butter over medium heat until heated through and crispy, adding a delicious texture to your meal. Sweet Potato Gnocchi Variations Feel free to get creative with this delightful sweet potato gnocchi recipe—your taste buds will thank you! Dairy-Free: Use nutritional yeast and a dairy-free butter substitute to enjoy creamy flavors without dairy. Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or basil into the dough for an aromatic twist that adds depth. Smoky Flavor: Substitute half of the Parmesan with smoky gouda or cheddar for a bold, smoky taste. Nutty Crunch: Add a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or walnuts over your finished dish for a delightful crunch. Veggie-Loaded: Toss in cooked spinach or sautéed mushrooms to the gnocchi mixture for an added nutritional boost. Spicy Kick: Include a pinch of red pepper flakes in the dough for a touch of heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness. Sweet Twist: For a dessert version, reduce the flour and add a dash of cinnamon to create a sweet, pillowy pillow instead. Sauce Pairing: Serve with a simple brown butter sage sauce for a rich and comforting finish. If you’re curious about different sauce options, you can also check out our Tropical Fruit Salad Sweetened for inspiration! Enjoy exploring these delightful variations and make this sweet potato gnocchi your own! Sweet Potato Gnocchi Recipe FAQs What kind of sweet potatoes should I use for gnocchi? You’ll want to look for medium-sized sweet potatoes that are firm and without dark spots or blemishes. They should feel heavy for their size, indicating they are moist and fresh. The sweeter, nutty flavor of good-quality sweet potatoes will greatly enhance your gnocchi! How can I store leftover gnocchi? Store any leftover uncooked sweet potato gnocchi in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. If they are cooked, let them cool to room temperature, then place them in an airtight container or freeze them laid flat on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag for up to a month. Can I freeze uncooked gnocchi? Absolutely! To freeze uncooked sweet potato gnocchi, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours). Once frozen, transfer the gnocchi to an airtight container or freezer bag. This method prevents them from sticking together, allowing you to cook them straight from frozen when you’re ready. What if my gnocchi dough is too sticky? If your gnocchi dough is too sticky, it’s likely that either the sweet potatoes released too much moisture or there wasn’t enough flour added. Start by sprinkling a little more flour onto your work surface and lightly kneading it in until the dough is manageable. Just be careful not to overwork it, as this can make the gnocchi dense. Are sweet potato gnocchi suitable for gluten-free diets? Yes, you can make this sweet potato gnocchi gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly, so be ready to adjust the flour quantity until you achieve a soft but not sticky dough. Delicious Sweet Potato Gnocchi for Cozy Nights In This Sweet Potato Gnocchi is a delightful comfort food made with sweet potatoes, Parmesan, and easy to prepare with simple ingredients. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsResting Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Dough2 medium Sweet Potatoes Provides the primary flavor and texture.1 large Egg Binds the ingredients and enriches the dough.1 cup Parmesan Cheese Adds depth of flavor; can substitute with pecorino.1 cup King Arthur Unbleached All-Purpose Flour For gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend.For Frying2 tablespoons Butter Provides richness and crispiness; use clarified for a deeper flavor. Equipment MicrowaveOvenmixing bowlPotato RicerForkGnocchi BoardSkillet Method Step-by-Step InstructionsCook your medium-sized sweet potatoes in the microwave for about 8-10 minutes or bake at 425°F for 45-60 minutes. Cool and peel.Mash the cooked sweet potatoes into a light, fluffy texture using a ricer or masher. Set aside to cool slightly.In a mixing bowl, blend sweet potato puree with a beaten egg until smooth.In a separate bowl, whisk together Parmesan cheese and flour, then gradually incorporate it into the sweet potato mixture.Cover the dough and let it rest for about 20 minutes.Dust countertop with flour, roll dough into long ropes, cut small pieces, and create texture with a fork or gnocchi board.Add shaped gnocchi to boiling water. Once they float (1-2 minutes), remove them with a slotted spoon.In a skillet, melt butter and fry the boiled gnocchi for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 6gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 15000IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg NotesStore uncooked gnocchi in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Freeze cooked gnocchi for up to a month. Reheat by sautéing in butter until crispy. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
