Name: Easy Brown Butter Sage Gnocchi That Will Steal Your Heart
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon Unsalted Butter (Adds richness and flavor); 10 leaves Fresh Sage Leaves (Provides earthy aroma and taste); 16 oz Shelf-Stable Gnocchi (A quick cooking base); Salt and Black Pepper (Enhances overall flavor); Grated Parmesan Cheese (Optional topping for creaminess); Seasonal Vegetables (Incorporate for nutrition and color); Nutmeg (Add a pinch for extra warmth and depth)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Is there anything better than a dish that wraps you in warmth and comfort in just 10 minutes? That’s exactly what you get with this Sage Brown Butter Gnocchi. Picture this: as the butter melts, it transforms into a nutty golden elixir, mingling with fresh sage leaves to create an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen.

This delightful dish marries soft, pillowy gnocchi with the rich, savory essence of brown butter and aromatic sage—making it an ideal meal as fall whispers its arrival. I stumbled upon this recipe during a busy weeknight, and it quickly became my go-to when I wanted something both simple and extraordinary. Perfectly vegetarian and packed with flavors that echo the season, this gnocchi is not just quick to prepare; it’s also a wonderful reminder that comfort food can always be just a skillet away. Ready to indulge? Let’s dive in!

Why is Brown Butter Sage Gnocchi a must-try?

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 10 minutes, making it the perfect solution for busy weeknights.

Rich Flavors: The unique combination of nutty brown butter and fragrant sage creates an aroma that will envelop your kitchen and warm your heart.

Comfort Food: It’s a vegetarian dish that encapsulates everything we love about cozy fall flavors, offering a creamy, satisfying meal without the fuss.

Versatile: You can easily customize it by adding seasonal vegetables or even substituting different herbs for varying tastes. If you’re also craving something sweet, consider pairing it with these Cheesy Garlic Butter chicken bites for a full dinner experience!

Crowd Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or entertaining friends, this gnocchi will impress even the most discerning palates without requiring hours of kitchen time.

Brown Butter Sage Gnocchi Ingredients

For the Gnocchi
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and flavor; use unsalted to control saltiness.
• Fresh Sage Leaves – Provides earthy aroma and taste; fresh is preferred for flavor.
• Shelf-Stable Gnocchi (16 oz) – A quick cooking base; refrigerated or frozen varieties can be used, but cooking times may vary.
• Salt and Black Pepper – Enhances overall flavor to taste; add red pepper flakes for a gentle kick if desired.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese – Optional topping for creaminess; use a vegan cheese for a dairy-free alternative.

Optional Add-Ins
• Seasonal Vegetables – Incorporate spinach or cherry tomatoes for nutrition and color.
• Nutmeg – Add a pinch for extra warmth and depth; it pairs beautifully with the sage.

How to Make Brown Butter Sage Gnocchi

Heat Butter: In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium heat until it begins to foam. Keep an eye on it; you want it to turn a lovely golden color without burning.
Add Sage: Toss in approximately 10 fresh sage leaves, cooking them for about 1-2 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they become fragrant and slightly crispy.
Incorporate Gnocchi: Gently add the 16-ounce package of shelf-stable gnocchi to the skillet. Stir to combine the gnocchi with the fragrant butter and sage mixture.
Cook Gnocchi: Allow the gnocchi to cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until they are heated through and turn a gorgeous golden hue. This is when they soak in all that delicious flavor!
Season & Serve: Sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper, giving it one last stir. Serve immediately, and if desired, top with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for that creamy finish.

Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Helpful Tricks for Brown Butter Sage Gnocchi

Perfect Butter: Keep a close watch on the butter as it browns; you’re aiming for a rich, nutty aroma without burning it, which elevates your brown butter sage gnocchi.
Gnocchi Tip: For perfectly cooked gnocchi, remember that fresh varieties take just 2-3 minutes; they’re ready when they float to the surface.
Prep Ahead: Set all your ingredients out and pre-measure them before you start cooking. This speeds up the process and makes everything run smoothly when making your delicious dish.
Gentle Reheating: If you have leftovers, avoid the microwave; instead, reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to keep the texture fluffy.
Season Wisely: Season your gnocchi at the end with salt and pepper, tasting as you go, to ensure just the right balance of flavor!

What to Serve with Sage Brown Butter Gnocchi?

Creating a complete meal is a delightful journey, and this comforting dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides that elevate its flavors.

Crispy Garlic Bread: The crunchy texture and buttery flavor complement the soft gnocchi, creating a satisfying contrast in every bite.
Arugula Salad: A fresh arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette adds a peppery bite that balances the richness of the brown butter, enhancing your dining experience.
Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: Colorful roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or butternut squash bring warmth and a hint of sweetness, making the meal vibrant and wholesome.
Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach with garlic provides a nutritious green side that harmonizes well with the dish, enhancing both flavor and nutrition.
Wine Pairing: A light Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio will beautifully match the nutty flavors of the brown butter while refreshing your palate.
Dessert Option: Finish off the meal with a slice of warm apple pie; its cinnamon-spiced sweetness resonates perfectly with the cozy fall notes of the gnocchi.

Embrace the comfort of homemade food and explore these wonderful accompaniments for an unforgettable dining experience!

How to Store and Freeze Brown Butter Sage Gnocchi

Fridge: Store any leftover gnocchi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked gnocchi in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to an airtight freezer bag for up to 1 month.

Reheating: Gently reheat leftovers in a skillet with a splash of water or broth over low heat to keep the gnocchi tender and prevent them from becoming chewy.

Tip: If you choose to freeze, consider undercooking the gnocchi slightly before freezing; they’ll finish cooking perfectly when reheated after being frozen!

Brown Butter Sage Gnocchi Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists to make this dish your own!

Herb Swap: Replace sage with fresh thyme or rosemary for a different aromatic profile. The fragrant notes will add a lovely twist!
Nutmeg Boost: Incorporate a pinch of nutmeg for an extra layer of warmth. This subtle spice enhances the earthy flavor beautifully, creating a cozy vibe.
Veggie Add-Ins: Toss in fresh spinach or cherry tomatoes during cooking for a pop of color and extra nutrition. These additions not only brighten your dish but also make it even more satisfying.
Cheese Alternatives: Use nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese alternative to keep it dairy-free while still enjoying that cheesy goodness. It’s a fabulous way to cater to various dietary preferences!
Heat It Up: Sprinkle red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. This little kick can elevate your meal, providing a delightful contrast to the earthy flavors of the butter and sage.
Pasta Variation: Swap out gnocchi for another type of pasta, like penne or fusilli. Each pasta shape offers a unique texture, and you can have fun with different lengths of cooking time!
Citrus Zest: Add a dash of lemon or orange zest at the end for a bright finish. The citrusy notes complement the richness of the dish perfectly, making it feel fresh and unctuous.
Nuts Galore: Toss in toasted pine nuts or walnuts for an added crunch. This texture contrast brings another dimension, making every bite even more enjoyable.

Explore these variations to craft a personalized version of your Brown Butter Sage Gnocchi, and enjoy your culinary adventure!

Brown Butter Sage Gnocchi Recipe FAQs

What type of butter should I use for the gnocchi?
I recommend using unsalted butter, as it allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dish. This will let the lovely earthy flavors of the sage shine through without being overpowered.

How should I store leftover gnocchi?
Store any leftover gnocchi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Can I freeze Sage Brown Butter Gnocchi?
Absolutely! For freezing, spread the cooked gnocchi in a single layer on a baking sheet and place it in the freezer until firm. Once they’re frozen, transfer them to an airtight freezer bag for up to 1 month. This way, you can enjoy this cozy dish even later!

What should I do if my gnocchi turns out chewy?
To avoid chewy gnocchi, make sure not to overcook them. If you have leftovers, reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth over low heat; this helps retain their fluffy texture! Remember, if you’re reheating from frozen, it’s best to let them thaw in the fridge overnight first.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
If you’re catering to dietary restrictions, this recipe is naturally vegetarian. For a dairy-free version, simply substitute grated Parmesan cheese with a vegan cheese alternative. Always double-check for allergies, particularly with the butter and cheese.

Can I use dried sage instead of fresh?
While fresh sage is preferred for its vibrant flavor, you can use dried sage if needed. Use about one-third of the amount, as dried herbs are more potent. Just remember to add them earlier in the cooking process to allow their flavors to bloom!