Name: Sweet Potato Gnocchi
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Ingredients: 2 medium sweet potatoes (about 1.5 pounds); 1 to 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting; 1 large egg; ½ teaspoon salt; ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional); 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter (for cooking or serving); Fresh herbs like sage or thyme (optional, for garnish)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Sweet potato gnocchi is a delightful alternative to regular gnocchi, bringing both color and flavor to your plate. It’s surprisingly easy to make at home, even for beginner cooks, and it requires just a handful of ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive homemade dish for guests, this recipe delivers on flavor, texture, and simplicity.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Sweet potatoes
All-purpose flour
Egg
Salt
Nutmeg (optional)
Olive oil or butter (for cooking or serving)
Fresh herbs like sage or thyme (optional for garnish or added flavor)

Directions

Begin by baking or microwaving the sweet potatoes until they are tender. Let them cool slightly, then peel and mash until smooth.
Place the mashed sweet potatoes in a bowl and add the egg, a pinch of salt, and nutmeg if using. Mix until well combined.
Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. You may not need all the flour, so add it slowly to avoid making the dough too dry.
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead gently until smooth. Divide into sections.
Roll each section into a long rope about ½ inch thick, then cut into 1-inch pieces.
If desired, roll each piece over the tines of a fork to create the traditional gnocchi ridges.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi in batches, cooking until they float to the surface—this usually takes 2-3 minutes.
Remove with a slotted spoon and transfer to a plate.
In a skillet, heat some butter or olive oil and sauté the cooked gnocchi until golden and slightly crispy, or serve directly with your sauce of choice.
Garnish with herbs and enjoy warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Vegan: Omit the egg and add a tablespoon of olive oil or flaxseed meal as a binder.
Cheesy Gnocchi: Add grated Parmesan or ricotta to the dough for extra richness.
Spiced Gnocchi: Add cinnamon or allspice to enhance the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes.
Pan-Seared: After boiling, sear the gnocchi in browned butter for a crispy exterior.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerate leftover gnocchi in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
To reheat, sauté in a pan with a little butter or olive oil until heated through and golden.
Uncooked gnocchi can be frozen on a tray, then transferred to a freezer bag and kept for up to 2 months. Boil directly from frozen.

FAQs

How do I know when the sweet potato gnocchi is cooked?

Gnocchi is done when it floats to the surface of the boiling water, which typically takes about 2-3 minutes.

Can I use canned sweet potato puree?

Yes, but make sure it’s pure sweet potato with no added sugars or spices, and adjust the flour as canned puree tends to be wetter.

Why is my gnocchi dough too sticky?

You may need to add more flour, but do so gradually. Sweet potatoes can vary in moisture content, so it’s best to add flour until the dough is soft but not overly sticky.

Can I bake the gnocchi instead of boiling it?

Boiling is necessary to cook the gnocchi through. After boiling, you can bake or pan-fry it to add texture.

What sauces go well with sweet potato gnocchi?

Browned butter with sage, creamy Alfredo, garlic and olive oil, or even a light tomato sauce all pair beautifully.

Do I need to peel the sweet potatoes before mashing?

Yes, for a smooth dough, it’s best to peel the sweet potatoes after cooking and before mashing.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours wrapped tightly in plastic wrap.

How do I freeze homemade gnocchi?

Place uncooked gnocchi in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.

Should I use a fork to shape each gnocchi?

It’s optional. The fork marks help sauces cling to the gnocchi but aren’t essential for the taste or texture.

Is it better to bake or boil the sweet potatoes?

Baking is ideal as it helps reduce the moisture in the potatoes, resulting in a firmer dough that requires less flour.

Conclusion

Sweet potato gnocchi is a delightful homemade dish that brings warmth, flavor, and versatility to your kitchen. With its naturally sweet taste and soft texture, it’s a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and customize. Whether you’re making it for a casual dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy.