When you’re craving something warm, comforting, and packed with rich, nutty flavors, Crispy Gnocchi with Brown Butter and Sage is the answer. This dish takes the humble gnocchi—a pillowy, soft Italian dumpling—and transforms it into a crispy, golden delight that pairs perfectly with the deep, nutty richness of brown butter and the fragrant warmth of fresh sage. It’s a simple yet elegant meal that’s as satisfying as it is delicious.
Whether you’re making it for a cozy weeknight dinner or impressing guests with your cooking skills, crispy gnocchi with brown butter and sage will quickly become a favorite. Here’s how you can make this perfect combination of crispy and tender in your own kitchen.
What Makes Crispy Gnocchi with Brown Butter and Sage So Special?
Gnocchi, traditionally soft and pillowy, is given a delightful twist in this recipe. By pan-frying it, the gnocchi becomes beautifully crispy on the outside while staying tender on the inside, creating an irresistible contrast in texture. The brown butter adds a rich, caramelized flavor that elevates the dish, while fresh sage brings a fragrant, earthy note. The result? A simple but absolutely irresistible dish that brings a perfect balance of flavors.
Ingredients for Crispy Gnocchi with Sage :
For the Gnocchi:
- 1 lb potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Brown Butter and Sage:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 10-12 fresh sage leaves (whole)
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
Instructions :
1. Prepare the Gnocchi:
If you’re using store-bought gnocchi, it’s usually best to boil them first. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions—usually until they float to the surface, which takes around 2-3 minutes. Once cooked, remove the gnocchi with a slotted spoon and set them aside to drain. If you’re using homemade gnocchi, cook them in the same way.
Tip: You can skip boiling and fry raw gnocchi directly in the pan if you prefer an even crispier texture, but boiling helps make them tender on the inside.
2. Fry the Gnocchi:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the cooked gnocchi in a single layer. Let them fry without moving them around too much, so they get nice and crispy. After about 2-3 minutes, flip the gnocchi to the other side and cook for another 2-3 minutes until golden and crispy all around. You may need to do this in batches depending on the size of your skillet. Once crispy, remove the gnocchi and set them aside on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Make the Brown Butter:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the butter and let it melt, stirring occasionally. Once the butter has melted, it will begin to bubble and foam. Keep a close eye on it, as the butter will quickly turn brown and take on a nutty aroma. After 2-3 minutes, once the butter is a golden brown and has a nutty smell, add the fresh sage leaves. The sage will crisp up in the butter, adding wonderful flavor to the dish. If using, sprinkle in the garlic powder for an added depth of flavor. Stir the sage leaves around the pan for about 30 seconds, allowing them to infuse the butter with their fragrance.
4. Combine and Serve:
Once the brown butter is ready and the sage is crispy, add the fried gnocchi back into the skillet. Toss gently to coat the gnocchi in the brown butter and sage, allowing them to soak up all the delicious flavors. Cook for another minute, just to let everything come together.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Transfer the crispy gnocchi to serving plates, drizzle with the remaining brown butter and sage, and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. The warm cheese will melt into the gnocchi, adding a creamy texture to each bite.
Tips for Perfect Crispy Gnocchi with Brown Butter and Sage:
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: When frying the gnocchi, make sure to leave some space between them so they can crisp up properly. If the pan is too crowded, the gnocchi will steam rather than crisp.
- Use good butter: The butter is the star of the show when making brown butter, so use a high-quality unsalted butter for the best flavor.
- Watch the brown butter carefully: It can go from golden to burnt very quickly, so stay close to the pan and be ready to add the sage as soon as the butter reaches a rich brown color.
- Serve immediately: This dish is best enjoyed right after it’s made when the gnocchi is still crispy and hot.
Why Crispy Gnocchi with Brown Butter and Sage is a Winner
Crispy gnocchi with brown butter and sage is the ultimate comfort food with a sophisticated twist. The crispy exterior of the gnocchi adds a delightful crunch that contrasts perfectly with its tender interior. The nutty flavor of the brown butter and the earthy taste of sage take the dish to another level, making each bite feel indulgent. It’s a simple yet refined meal that works for any occasion—whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner at home or a dish to impress guests.
Final Thoughts
Crispy Gnocchi with Brown Butter and Sage is the perfect balance of textures and flavors. The crispy gnocchi, nutty brown butter, and aromatic sage come together to create a dish that feels rich and comforting, yet simple to make. With just a few ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen that’s sure to become a favorite.
Give this recipe a try, and let the crispy gnocchi, brown butter, and sage transport you to culinary bliss. Enjoy!
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