5 Ingredient Sweet Potato Gnocchi

It’s so easy to make soft, fluffy sweet potato gnocchi with just 5 easy-to-find ingredients. This delightful dish is perfect for weeknights, special occasions, or the holiday season. The combination of nutty brown butter, fragrant rosemary, and savory garlic elevates the flavors, making it a showstopper meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only five ingredients, this recipe is simple enough for any skill level.
• Flavorful: The nutty brown butter and aromatic herbs create a rich taste that’s sure to impress.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a main dish or as a side; it’s perfect for any meal.
• Healthy Comfort Food: Sweet potatoes provide essential nutrients while keeping it comforting and delicious.
• Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or proteins to make it your own!

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this recipe effectively, having the right tools on hand is essential. They help ensure that the process goes smoothly and efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking tray
• Parchment paper
• Large mixing bowl
• Fork or spatula
• Clean flat surface for rolling dough
• High-sided pan or skillet

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking tray: Essential for roasting sweet potatoes evenly without mess.
• Large mixing bowl: Allows ample space to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
• High-sided pan or skillet: Perfect for cooking chicken sausage and creating brown butter without splattering.

Ingredients

To make 5 Ingredient Sweet Potato Gnocchi, you’ll need:

For the Gnocchi

• 500g/1lb sweet potato (roughly 2 medium)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup ricotta
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 1/4 cups plain flour

Optional Toppings

• 50g/2oz chicken sausage, casing removed and diced (optional)
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 3 garlic cloves, crushed
• 1 sprig of rosemary, stem removed
• 1 teaspoon flaky salt
• Grated parmesan cheese

How to Make 5 Ingredient Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Heat your oven to 400F/200C fan and line an oven tray with baking paper. Slice your sweet potatoes in half and drizzle the exposed sides with olive oil. Place them cut-side down on the prepared tray. Roast for about 30 minutes until tender.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

Scoop the sweet potato flesh into a large bowl. Add ricotta, grated parmesan, salt, and nutmeg. Mix until you have a semi-smooth mixture.

Step 3: Incorporate Flour

Gradually add flour, about 1/2 cup at a time. Mix until just combined. Continue adding flour until the dough is manageable and less sticky.

Step 4: Shape the Gnocchi

Lightly flour a clean surface. Transfer the dough onto it and form a chunky log. Cut off roughly a 1-inch piece from one end. Roll it into a long rope and slice into 1-inch pieces. Place them on a lined tray.

Step 5: Cook Chicken Sausage (Optional)

If using chicken sausage, cook in a high-sided pan over high heat until crispy. Remove from the pan but retain any oil left behind.

Step 6: Make Brown Butter Sauce

Add butter to the same pan over medium heat. Stir until melted and foamy with nutty aroma—this is your brown butter.

Step 7: Cook Gnocchi

Boil water in a large pot. Carefully add gnocchi; they are ready when they float to the top (about a couple of minutes).

Step 8: Combine Ingredients

Use a slotted spoon to transfer cooked gnocchi directly into the pan with brown butter. Stir gently while letting them crisp on one side for a few minutes. Add garlic, flaky salt, rosemary leaves, then toss everything together before serving hot with crispy chicken sausage and extra grated parmesan on top.

Enjoy your delicious homemade 5 Ingredient Sweet Potato Gnocchi!

How to Serve 5 Ingredient Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Serving 5 Ingredient Sweet Potato Gnocchi can elevate your dining experience. The sweet flavors of the gnocchi pair beautifully with a variety of accompaniments, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.

With Crispy Chicken Sausage

• Add crispy chicken sausage on top for a delightful crunch and protein boost. The savory flavor complements the sweetness of the gnocchi perfectly.

Tossed in Brown Butter Sauce

• Drizzle with the nutty brown butter sauce used during cooking. This enhances the flavors and adds richness to each bite.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Top with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or basil for added freshness. They add color and a fragrant aroma that brightens the dish.

Served with a Side Salad

• Pair your gnocchi with a light salad. A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness and makes for a refreshing side.

Accompanied by Roasted Vegetables

• Roast seasonal vegetables to serve alongside your gnocchi. The caramelized flavors of vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots provide a nice contrast.

With Grated Parmesan Cheese

• Finish off your dish with extra grated parmesan cheese. It brings saltiness and creaminess, enhancing the overall taste of the meal.

How to Perfect 5 Ingredient Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Achieving perfect 5 Ingredient Sweet Potato Gnocchi is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your gnocchi turns out fabulous every time.

• Use fresh sweet potatoes: The fresher your sweet potatoes, the sweeter and more flavorful your gnocchi will be.
• Avoid overworking the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough gnocchi. Mix just until combined for soft, fluffy results.
• Flour lightly: Only add enough flour to make the dough manageable; too much flour can make gnocchi dense.
• Test a piece before cooking all: Boil one piece first to check if it holds together and tastes right before cooking the entire batch.
• Don’t skip browning the butter: Brown butter adds depth and nuttiness, elevating your dish from ordinary to extraordinary.
• Serve immediately: Gnocchi is best enjoyed fresh; serve right after cooking for optimal texture.

Best Side Dishes for 5 Ingredient Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Pairing side dishes with your sweet potato gnocchi can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options that complement its flavors beautifully.

1. Garlic Bread
   A crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover brown butter sauce while adding crunch to your meal.
2. Caesar Salad
   A classic Caesar salad provides a creamy contrast and crispy romaine lettuce, enhancing your dining experience.
3. Steamed Asparagus
   Lightly steamed asparagus adds color and a tender crunch that pairs nicely with the soft texture of gnocchi.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   Caramelized Brussels sprouts bring earthy flavors that balance out the sweetness of the gnocchi wonderfully.
5. Caprese Salad
   Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing side that cuts through richness.
6. Grilled Zucchini
   Grilled zucchini adds smokiness and lightness, making it an ideal companion for rich dishes like sweet potato gnocchi.
7. Mushroom Risotto
   Creamy mushroom risotto provides comfort and earthiness, making each bite satisfying alongside your main dish.
8. Herbed Quinoa
   A light herbed quinoa salad enhances nutrition while providing a nutty flavor that complements the dish beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making 5 Ingredient Sweet Potato Gnocchi, avoiding common mistakes can lead to a more successful dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can make the gnocchi tough. Combine until just mixed for a soft texture.
• Using too much flour: Adding excess flour can result in dense gnocchi. Start with less and add gradually to achieve the right consistency.
• Not cooking sweet potatoes properly: Undercooked potatoes lead to a gritty texture. Ensure they are fully roasted until tender before mashing.
• Skipping the resting period: Not letting the dough rest can affect the flavor and texture. Allow it to rest for about 10 minutes before shaping.
• Cooking gnocchi in boiling water for too long: Overcooking makes gnocchi mushy. Cook until they float, indicating they’re ready.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover gnocchi in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing 5 Ingredient Sweet Potato Gnocchi

• Freeze uncooked gnocchi on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating 5 Ingredient Sweet Potato Gnocchi

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place gnocchi in a microwave-safe bowl with a splash of water and cover. Heat for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add some oil or butter and reheat gnocchi for about 5 minutes until warmed and slightly crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making 5 Ingredient Sweet Potato Gnocchi, here are some common queries:

Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes! While sweet potatoes give great flavor, regular potatoes can also work well for traditional gnocchi.

How do I know when my gnocchi is done cooking?

Gnocchi is cooked when they float to the surface of boiling water. This usually takes just a couple of minutes.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute ricotta with a plant-based alternative and omit chicken sausage or use a meat substitute for added protein.

What sauces pair well with 5 Ingredient Sweet Potato Gnocchi?

You can toss the gnocchi in brown butter sauce as mentioned or serve with marinara or pesto for different flavor profiles.

Can I customize my gnocchi with herbs or spices?

Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite herbs like sage or spices such as cayenne pepper for an extra kick!

Final Thoughts

This recipe for 5 Ingredient Sweet Potato Gnocchi is not only simple but also versatile enough for any occasion. The combination of flavors from nutty brown butter and garlic elevates this dish into something special. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite proteins or vegetables. Enjoy making this delightful meal!