Savory Brown Butter Sage Gnocchi

Gnocchi meets elegance in this brown butter and sage recipe.

Create a restaurant-quality dish at home with this simple yet luxurious recipe for Brown Butter Sage Gnocchi. Soft gnocchi is pan-fried to a golden crisp and coated in nutty browned butter with fragrant sage, then finished with Parmesan cheese.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Full Ingredient List

16 ounces gnocchi (homemade or store-bought)
4 tablespoons butter
2-3 sprigs fresh sage
1 tablespoon olive oil
¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
salt
black pepper

Brown Butter Sage Gnocchi

Tools and Equipment

large pan
spatula
pot for boiling

Ingredients

Quantity	Name	Preparation Notes	Substitutions
16 ounces	gnocchi	Either homemade or store-bought
4 tablespoons	butter	Brown in pan
2-3 sprigs	fresh sage	Cook with butter	1/2 teaspoon dried sage
1 tablespoon	olive oil
1/4 cup	Parmesan cheese	Shredded
to taste	salt
to taste	black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Boil the gnocchi in salted water according to package or recipe directions. Drain well.
Step 2: In a large pan over medium-high heat, add the butter and sage leaves. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the butter is lightly browned and emits a nutty aroma, about 2 minutes. (Tips: Watch the butter closely to prevent burning.)
Step 3: Remove the browned butter and sage from the pan and set aside.
Step 4: Add olive oil to the same pan over medium-high heat. Add the drained gnocchi and cook without stirring until they are golden on one side, about 5-6 minutes. (Tips: Avoid stirring to help the gnocchi form a crust.)
Step 5: Add the browned butter and sage back to the pan with the gnocchi. Mix well and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. (Tips: Ensure the gnocchi is well-coated with the butter and sage.)
Step 6: Season generously with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving. (Tips: Optional: Add a sprinkle of lemon zest or fresh parsley for a fresh touch.)

Nutritional Information

Calories: 309
Protein: 7g
Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 1g

Additional Information

Notes: The browned butter must be monitored closely as it can quickly shift from brown to burnt. Fresh sage is recommended for the best flavor, and whole leaves can be consumed with the gnocchi. Adjust seasoning to your preference.

Background: Gnocchi, traditionally Italian, is an elegant dumpling made from potatoes and flour. This dish enhances it with browned butter and sage, a classic Italian combination that highlights the simple yet delightful flavors.

Geographic Region: American adaptation of an Italian classic

Seasonality: Autumn

Occasion: weeknight dinner

Recommended Pairings

Light white wine, such as Pinot Grigio
Lemon-infused iced tea
Sparkling water with lemon