Gnocchi With Burnt Sage Butter
Soft, pillowy gnocchi paired with nutty, aromatic burnt sage butter is one of those simple yet luxurious dishes that proves less is more. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, this Italian-inspired dish offers a comforting experience perfect for cozy weeknights or special occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy – From start to finish, it takes less than 30 minutes.
- Rich in Flavor – The brown butter and sage combo creates an irresistible nutty-herbal aroma.
- Minimal Ingredients – No need for complex shopping lists.
- Versatile – Works with store-bought or homemade gnocchi.
Ingredients
- 500g (1 lb) potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 10–12 fresh sage leaves
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Optional: grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano
Instructions
1. Cook the Gnocchi
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook until they float to the top — this usually takes about 2–3 minutes. Remove them with a slotted spoon and set aside.
2. Make the Burnt Sage Butter
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sage leaves and let the butter cook, stirring occasionally. You’ll notice it foaming, then turning golden brown, and finally deepening into a nutty amber color. The sage will crisp up — this takes about 4–6 minutes. Watch it carefully so it doesn’t burn beyond flavor.
3. Combine & Serve
Add the cooked gnocchi directly to the skillet. Gently toss to coat in the burnt butter and sage. Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan if desired.
Tips for Success
- Don’t Walk Away – Brown butter turns to burnt butter quickly (and not in a good way).
- Fresh Sage Only – Dried sage won’t crisp up or give the same flavor.
- Homemade Gnocchi – If you’re feeling ambitious, homemade gnocchi take this dish to the next level.
Variations
- Add Garlic – Sauté a minced clove in the butter before adding sage.
- Add Crunch – Toasted pine nuts or walnuts add texture.
- Pumpkin Gnocchi – Try with pumpkin or sweet potato gnocchi for a fall twist.
Serving Suggestions
Pair it with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables. A chilled glass of white wine like Pinot Grigio or a light red like Chianti complements the dish beautifully.
Gnocchi with Burnt Sage Butter is proof that elegance can be effortless. The browned butter infuses the gnocchi with deep, toasty notes while crispy sage leaves provide a delicate crunch. It’s a dish that’s simple enough for a weeknight, yet impressive enough for guests.
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