If you’re looking for a comforting yet refreshingly creative dish, this Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Herby Butter Sauce Recipe is a must-try. Soft, pillowy gnocchi made from naturally sweet and vibrant sweet potatoes pair beautifully with a luscious butter sauce infused with fresh herbs like sage and rosemary. The result is a delightful dance of flavors and textures that feels indulgent without being heavy. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or coming across gnocchi for the first time, this recipe is an absolute joy to make and eat, bringing warmth and elegance to any table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This image shows a black cast iron skillet filled with many small, orange gnocchi pieces that have browned grill marks on top, arranged evenly across the pan. Among the gnocchi are scattered dark green herbs, including rosemary sprigs and sage leaves, which add texture and color contrast. The skillet rests on a white marbled surface with a green cloth partially visible under the pan's handle on the right side. The overall look is warm and rustic, with rich orange and green tones against the black skillet and light background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering simple but essential ingredients is the first step toward creating this magical dish. Each component enhances the gnocchi’s taste, texture, or appearance, ensuring every bite feels just right.

3 cups mashed sweet potato: The star of the show, providing natural sweetness and a soft, tender base.
1 egg: Binds the dough together for perfect gnocchi structure.
1 tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
1 ½ to 2 cups flour: Adds just enough structure without making the gnocchi dense.
2 Tbsp butter: Creates a rich, silky herby butter sauce.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings aromatic depth to the sauce.
Handful fresh sage and rosemary: Fresh herbs that infuse the butter with an earthy, fragrant note.
¼ cup shredded parmesan: Adds a salty, nutty finish.
¼ cup heavy cream: Makes the sauce luxuriously smooth and creamy.

How to Make Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Herby Butter Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Cook and Mash the Sweet Potatoes

Start by piercing the sweet potatoes all over with a fork, then wrapping them in damp paper towels before microwaving on high for 7 to 10 minutes until tender. Once cool enough to handle, scoop out the soft flesh and mash it thoroughly. Cooling the puree to room temperature is key to keep the egg from cooking prematurely when combined.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, stir the salt into 1 ½ cups of flour and sprinkle it over the cooled sweet potato puree. Add the egg and gently fold everything together to form a sticky dough. Be careful not to overwork it — a light touch keeps your gnocchi soft rather than gluey. Add more flour if necessary until the dough holds loosely together.

Step 3: Roll and Cut

On a floured surface, divide the dough into fist-sized balls, then roll each ball into ropes about 1 inch thick. Slice these ropes into half-inch pieces, creating little pillows of sweet potato heaven. For a beautiful classic touch, gently roll each piece over the tines of an upside-down fork—this step is optional but adds a charming texture that catches the sauce beautifully.

Step 4: Boil the Gnocchi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Drop the gnocchi in batches; they will sink and then float to the top when ready, usually after 2 to 3 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer them to a paper towel-lined surface to briefly dry off before sautéing.

Step 5: Make the Herby Butter Sauce and Sauté

In a large pan over medium heat, melt the butter and add garlic along with fresh sage and rosemary, letting the herbs release their fragrance. Add the boiled gnocchi and sauté them until they develop a slight golden crust, around 5 minutes. Turn off the heat and stir in parmesan and cream, coating each gnocchi in a velvety herby sauce.

How to Serve Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Herby Butter Sauce Recipe

A white bowl filled with about two layers of bright orange gnocchi, each piece having grill marks and a slightly crispy texture. The gnocchi pieces are mixed with small green leaves and sprinkled with thin white shavings, likely cheese, adding light contrast. A silver spoon is placed inside the bowl, resting on the edge. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a soft green cloth nearby and two clear glasses of water in the background, along with some blurred green leaves. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan cheese or a few torn fresh sage leaves on top adds an inviting finishing touch. A crack of fresh black pepper lends just the right amount of bite to complement the creamy sauce and sweet gnocchi.

Side Dishes

Pair this dish with a crisp green salad dressed in a zesty vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables to add brightness and balance. A simple glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon can elevate the whole meal experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, serve the gnocchi nestled in shallow bowls with extra buttery sauce spooned generously over. Alternatively, plate them on a rustic wooden board alongside herb sprigs and a wedge of parmesan for an inviting family-style meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover gnocchi, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge and consume within 1 to 2 days. Gnocchi tends to soften over time, so reheating gently is recommended to maintain their texture.

Freezing

You can freeze the gnocchi before boiling by arranging them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freezing until solid. Transfer them to a sealed container or bag, and use within a month. When ready, cook them straight from frozen by boiling as usual.

Reheating

The best way to reheat gnocchi is by sautéing them gently in butter until warmed through and slightly crisp on the outside. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them mushy. Adding a splash of cream or tossing with extra grated cheese will refresh their flavor.

FAQs

Can I bake the sweet potatoes instead of microwaving?

Absolutely! Just prick your sweet potatoes all over and bake them for 40 to 50 minutes at 400°F (200°C) until soft. Baking intensifies their sweetness, adding even more depth to your gnocchi.

How important is the type of flour used?

All-purpose flour works beautifully here. The key is to use just enough to hold the dough together without making the gnocchi tough. You want a tender bite, so add flour gradually.

Can I substitute herbs in the herby butter sauce?

Definitely! Fresh sage and rosemary create a wonderful flavor combo, but thyme, parsley, or even basil can be delicious alternatives depending on your preference.

Is it necessary to shape gnocchi with a fork?

Shaping gnocchi using a fork is traditional for creating grooves that hold sauce well, but it is optional. If you prefer, simply cut them into pieces and cook—flavor and texture will remain delightful.

What if my gnocchi dough is too sticky?

If the dough feels too sticky to handle, sprinkle a little more flour as you work, but be cautious not to add too much or the gnocchi may turn dense. The goal is a soft, slightly tacky dough that holds together.

Final Thoughts

You really can’t go wrong with this Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Herby Butter Sauce Recipe. It’s a warm, inviting dish that feels special enough for guests but simple enough for a cozy weeknight dinner. Making your own gnocchi may sound intimidating, but with this recipe, each step becomes a moment of joyful creativity. I hope you’ll give it a try and delight in every tender, buttery bite!