Comforting Gnocchi and Sage Butter

Name: Comforting Gnocchi and Sage Butter
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 400g potato gnocchi; 50g unsalted butter; 8-10 fresh sage leaves; Salt, to taste; Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Cozy Meal Favorites

I absolutely adore the cozy comfort of Gnocchi and Sage Butter. The simplicity of this dish makes it a staple in my kitchen, especially during chilly evenings. With just a few ingredients, I can create a warm and satisfying meal that feels like a hug on a plate. As the gnocchi cook, they become fluffy pockets, perfectly paired with the aromatic sage butter that adds depth and flavor. It’s a recipe I return to again and again, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a leisurely weekend indulgence.

Created by

Noah

Last updated on 2026-01-18T13:06:29.665Z

When I first experimented with Gnocchi and Sage Butter, I was surprised by how a few simple ingredients could come together to create such a comforting dish. The key is in browning the butter just until it starts to smell nutty, which enhances the flavors beautifully. I also love adding a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese at the end for an extra layer of richness.

Over the years, I've played around with variations, such as incorporating seasonal vegetables or swapping sage for other herbs. However, this straightforward version remains a favorite in my household. It’s an easy dish that never fails to impress.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Comforting warmth in every bite
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy nights
Versatile with endless variations and add-ins

      

Mastering the Gnocchi Cooking Process

Cooking gnocchi is straightforward, but timing is crucial. The right moment to remove them from boiling water is when these little pillows float to the surface. This indicates they are cooked perfectly—usually around 2-3 minutes. Be sure not to overcrowd your pot; doing so might lead to uneven cooking. If you see any gnocchi sticking together, gently stir to separate them without damaging their shape.

After draining, consider tossing the gnocchi with a dash of olive oil to prevent sticking while you prepare the sage butter. This is especially helpful if you plan to let them sit for a few minutes, as they tend to clump together once removed from the pot.

The Art of Sage Butter

Preparing the sage butter is where the magic happens. Start by using medium heat to melt the butter carefully; if the heat is too high, the butter can burn, ruining its flavor. You want it to turn a lovely golden brown—a process that takes about 3-5 minutes. Watch for the small bubbles that indicate it's moving towards that perfect brown color, and be ready with your sage leaves.

Adding the sage leaves should be done when the butter is bubbly and fragrant. They will crisp up quickly, infusing the butter with their aromatic flavor. Don’t rush this step; cooking the sage until crispy creates a delightful texture contrast against the soft gnocchi.

Personalizing Your Plate

One of the best things about Gnocchi and Sage Butter is its versatility. Feel free to add other vegetables like sautéed spinach, or even roasted mushrooms for richness. Adding a squeeze of lemon right before serving can brighten the dish beautifully, cutting through the richness of the butter. Also, consider swapping out sage with thyme or rosemary for a different herbal note that pairs well with gnocchi.

If you are looking to make this dish heartier, you can toss in some cooked protein, such as grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp. These additions will not only enhance the flavor but also turn it into a fulfilling meal ideal for any dinner night.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your comforting gnocchi dish.

Ingredients

400g potato gnocchi
50g unsalted butter
8-10 fresh sage leaves
Salt, to taste
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Gnocchi and Sage Butter.

Cook the Gnocchi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the potato gnocchi and cook until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Once cooked, drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sage Butter

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sage leaves and cook until the butter is golden brown and the sage is crispy. This should take about 3-5 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Add the drained gnocchi to the skillet, toss gently to coat in the sage butter, and season with salt to taste. If desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Enjoy your comforting gnocchi dish warm and savor every bite!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider sautéing garlic in the butter before adding the sage. Also, feel free to toss in seasonal vegetables like spinach or peas for extra nutrition.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the gnocchi and sage butter separately in airtight containers. The gnocchi can last in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, I recommend using a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or additional butter to keep them from drying out.

Freezing gnocchi is also an excellent option. If you freeze uncooked gnocchi, spread them out on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be cooked directly from frozen; just add an extra minute to the cooking time. However, previously cooked gnocchi may become mushy if frozen, so it's best to consume them fresh.

Paired Beverages

To complement the comforting flavors of Gnocchi and Sage Butter, consider pairing it with a light white wine, such as a Pinot Grigio. Its acidity will balance the richness of the butter while elevating the dish's flavors. A sparkling water with a hint of citrus can also work nicely, refreshing the palate after each bite.

For a non-alcoholic option, a homemade herbal tea with hints of sage or lemon can harmonize beautifully with your meal's herbal notes, reinforcing the comforting qualities of this dish.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe can easily be scaled to serve larger groups. For every additional 100g of gnocchi, increase the butter and sage proportionally while keeping the cooking technique the same. Make sure your skillet is large enough to accommodate all the gnocchi at once to prevent them from overcrowding, which can lead to uneven coating in the sage butter.

If you're preparing for a crowd, consider incorporating a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette. This adds a refreshing element to balance the richness of the dish and makes it a complete meal without much additional effort.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Absolutely! Store-bought gnocchi works perfectly for this recipe and saves a lot of time.

→ What can I substitute for sage?

If you don’t have sage, consider using thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Substitute the butter with vegan butter or olive oil, and omit the cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.