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Tender Brown Butter Sage Gnocchi for Two

brown butter sage gnocchi - featured image

A quick and comforting gnocchi recipe for two, featuring tender potato gnocchi sautéed in nutty brown butter with crispy fresh sage leaves. Perfect for cozy evenings with simple ingredients and restaurant-worthy flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces (340 grams) store-bought potato gnocchi
  • 4 tablespoons (56 grams) unsalted butter
  • 810 fresh sage leaves, whole
  • 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • ¼ cup (25 grams) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Lemon zest from half a lemon (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces (340 grams) of gnocchi and cook according to package instructions, usually 2-3 minutes, until they float to the surface. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the gnocchi to a plate and set aside.
  2. In a large nonstick skillet, melt 4 tablespoons (56 grams) of unsalted butter over medium heat. Swirl the pan occasionally as the butter foams and then starts turning golden brown, releasing a nutty aroma, about 4-5 minutes. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
  3. Add 8-10 fresh sage leaves and 1 minced garlic clove to the browned butter. Stir gently and cook for 1-2 minutes until the sage crisps and garlic is fragrant but not burnt.
  4. Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet and gently toss in the brown butter and sage mixture. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the gnocchi to develop a light golden crust on the edges.
  5. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Add lemon zest if desired. Remove from heat.
  6. Plate the gnocchi and sprinkle with ¼ cup (25 grams) freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.

Notes

Watch the butter closely when browning to avoid burning. Use fresh sage for best texture and flavor. If gnocchi sticks together, add a splash of pasta water or extra butter. For dairy-free, use vegan butter and plant-based Parmesan. Frozen gnocchi can be used with slightly longer boiling time.

Nutrition

Keywords: gnocchi, brown butter, sage, quick dinner, easy recipe, comfort food, potato gnocchi, cozy meal