As I pulled my sweet potatoes from the oven, the warm, earthy aroma enveloped my kitchen, instantly transporting me to a cozy Italian trattoria. This is the moment I knew I was about to whip up something special: Light and Fluffy Sweet Potato Gnocchi. With their softer texture and subtle sweetness, these little pillows of comfort elevate a classic dish into a delightful experience. Plus, they’re a breeze to make, allowing you to create a satisfying homemade meal without a hefty time commitment. Whether you’re serving them to friends or enjoying a quiet dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Curious how to turn simple ingredients into such a culinary treat? Let’s dive in!

Why is Sweet Potato Gnocchi a Game Changer?

Comforting Delight: Sweet Potato Gnocchi combines the warmth of home cooking with an irresistible twist, offering a delightful change from traditional options.

Nutritious Benefits: Packed with vitamins and fiber, these tender bites provide a guilt-free indulgence that satisfies cravings for comfort food without the heaviness.

Versatile Preparation: Whether you enjoy them sautéed in brown butter or paired with a light sauce, these gnocchi adapt beautifully, making them perfect for any occasion. Try serving with a side salad to balance the meal!

Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish in under an hour, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Friends and family will be impressed by your culinary skills, and you can enjoy the accolades while feeling great about serving a homemade meal!

For more comforting recipes, check out our Garlic Butter Potatoes or Sweet Potato Breakfast.

Sweet Potato Gnocchi Ingredients

For the Gnocchi
• Sweet Potatoes – Provides natural sweetness and flavor; use medium-sized potatoes for optimal texture.
• Egg – Acts as a binder, helping to hold the gnocchi together; for a vegan option, consider using a flax egg.
• Parmesan Cheese – Adds rich flavor and a slight umami note; substitute with nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative.
• King Arthur Unbleached All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the gnocchi; substitute with gluten-free all-purpose flour for a gluten-free option.
• Butter – Used for frying the gnocchi until golden; can be replaced with olive oil for a dairy-free option.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Step 1: Cook Sweet Potatoes
Begin by scrubbing the sweet potatoes under running water to remove any dirt. Pierce them a few times with a fork and microwave on high for 8-9 minutes until they’re soft and tender. Alternatively, for a deeper flavor, you can roast them in the oven at 425°F for 45-60 minutes until the skin is crispy and the flesh is easily pierced with a fork.

Step 2: Prepare Dough
Once the sweet potatoes are cool enough to handle, scoop out the flesh and pass it through a potato ricer for a smooth texture. Let the riced sweet potatoes cool until lukewarm. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sweet potato with the beaten egg, then gradually add the Parmesan cheese and flour. Mix gently until a soft and slightly sticky dough forms, being careful not to overwork it.

Step 3: Shape Gnocchi
Divide the dough into manageable pieces, rolling each piece into a long log about ¾ inch thick. Cut the logs into 1-inch segments to form small gnocchi pieces. For an authentic finish, roll each piece over the tines of a fork or a gnocchi board to create ridges that will hold sauce beautifully, while also giving a lovely texture.

Step 4: Cook Gnocchi
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Let them cook until they float to the surface, which takes about 1-2 minutes. Once they rise, gently remove them with a slotted spoon and transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain briefly while you prepare the skillet.

Step 5: Serve
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat until it starts to bubble slightly. Add the cooked gnocchi and sauté for about 3-5 minutes until they turn golden brown on the outside. Remove from heat and serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese or your favorite sauce, allowing the sweet potato gnocchi to shine as the star of the meal.

Sweet Potato Gnocchi Variations

Feel free to customize your sweet potato gnocchi experience with these delightful twists that will tickle your taste buds!

Butternut Squash: Swap sweet potatoes for roasted butternut squash for a deeper, nutty flavor.
Vegan Option: Replace the egg with a flax egg for a completely plant-based version without sacrificing texture.
Herb Infusion: Add minced fresh herbs such as sage or rosemary directly into the dough to elevate the flavor profile.
Cheese Swap: Use ricotta or cottage cheese instead of Parmesan for a creamier, richer taste.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper into the dough for a gentle heat that complements the sweetness.
Nutty Crunch: Toss your cooked gnocchi with toasted pine nuts or walnuts for an added crunchy texture.
Brown Butter Sauce: Enhance the dish by tossing the gnocchi in brown butter—its nutty aroma will captivate your senses.
Creamy Spin: Mix in a splash of cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese at the end for a richer, velvety sauce.

By considering these variations, you can transform your sweet potato gnocchi into a new experience for each meal. Embrace the versatility, and for more inspiration, check out my delicious Mashed Potato Fries or a comforting serving of Garlic Butter Potatoes. Your kitchen adventures await!

Make Ahead Options

These Light and Fluffy Sweet Potato Gnocchi are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare and shape the gnocchi up to 24 hours in advance and keep them in the refrigerator, ensuring they’re covered to prevent drying out. Alternatively, if you make a larger batch, you can freeze them for up to 2 months; just arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet for a quick freeze before transferring to an airtight container. When you’re ready to cook, simply boil the frozen gnocchi straight from the freezer—no need to thaw—and sauté them in butter until golden. This makes for a comforting, homemade meal that’s just as delicious as when freshly made!

Storage Tips for Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Fridge: Store cooked sweet potato gnocchi in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Make sure to layer parchment paper between the layers to prevent sticking.
Freezer: Freeze uncooked gnocchi on a baking sheet for about 1 hour, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 2 months. No need to thaw before cooking; simply drop them directly into boiling water!
Reheating: To reheat leftover gnocchi, sauté in a hot skillet with a bit of butter for about 3-4 minutes until heated through and slightly crispy on the outside.
Cooking from Frozen: Simply boil directly from the freezer! Cook for 2-3 minutes or until they float to the surface, ensuring a fresh-tasting meal any night of the week.

What to Serve with Light and Fluffy Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Savor the comforting taste of your sweet potato gnocchi with these delightful pairings that create a meal full of warmth and flavor.

Creamy Garlic Spinach: A rich and velvety side that enhances the gnocchi’s sweetness, adding a vibrant green hue that’s perfect for balance. The creaminess complements the soft texture beautifully—a match made in comfort food heaven.
Fresh Arugula Salad: Crisp, peppery arugula tossed with a light lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the fluffy gnocchi. It brightens the dish and adds a crunchy texture that energizes each bite.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The caramelization from roasting brings out the natural sweetness of Brussels sprouts, echoing the flavors of the gnocchi. Their added crunch rounds out the meal, creating a delightful medley of textures.
Brown Butter Sage Sauce: Drizzling this nutty, aromatic sauce over your gnocchi enhances the dish with rich, savory notes. The herbs elevate the experience, making each bite a cozy moment of indulgence.
Homemade Marinara: A classic marinara sauce offers a tangy, rich backdrop that beautifully accentuates the sweetness of the gnocchi. This simple pairing allows the flavors to shine while adding warmth to your meal.
Pine Nut and Herb Pesto: The earthy goodness of pesto ties every element together, providing a fresh and fragrant kick that brightens the dish. Pairing it with the sweet gnocchi brings a delightful surprise to your taste buds.
Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio: A chilled glass of these white wines can enhance your dining experience. Their crispness cuts through the richness of the gnocchi, creating a harmonious pairing that elevates your meal.
Chocolate Mousse: End on a sweet note with a light, airy chocolate mousse. It offers a stunning contrast to the savory gnocchi and leaves your guests with a smile long after dinner.

Expert Tips for Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Perfect Potatoes: Use medium-sized sweet potatoes for a balanced flavor and texture; larger ones may result in more moisture, making the gnocchi gummy.
Gentle Mixing: Combine the dough gently to avoid overworking it. This will help maintain a light texture for your sweet potato gnocchi.
Ricing Technique: Ensure the sweet potato flesh is well-riced to achieve the best texture. Over-mashing can lead to tough, gummy gnocchi—nobody wants that!
Boiling in Batches: Don’t overcrowd the pot when boiling. Cooking in smaller batches allows each piece to float properly, ensuring they maintain their shape and cook evenly.
Add Flavor: For a richer taste, consider infusing the butter with fresh herbs like sage or thyme while sautéing the gnocchi for a delightful aromatic touch.

Sweet Potato Gnocchi Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right sweet potatoes?
Absolutely! Look for medium-sized sweet potatoes that are firm with smooth skin. Avoid those with dark spots or bruises, as they may have an off flavor. The size is important as larger potatoes can be waterier, which affects the texture of your gnocchi.

How should I store leftover sweet potato gnocchi?
For sure! Store cooked sweet potato gnocchi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure to layer some parchment paper between any stacked gnocchi to avoid them sticking together. If you want to keep them longer, freeze uncooked gnocchi on a baking sheet for about an hour, then transfer to a freezer-safe container where they’ll last for up to 2 months.

Can I freeze sweet potato gnocchi?
Absolutely! To freeze gnocchi, arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer and place in the freezer for about 1 hour until they are firm. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to cook from frozen, just drop them straight into boiling water and cook until they float, usually about 2-3 minutes.

What should I do if my gnocchi turn out gummy?
Ah, a common issue! If your gnocchi are gummy, it might be due to over-mashing the sweet potatoes or adding too much flour. Always rice the potatoes instead of mashing, and add flour gradually until a soft dough forms. If they come out gummy, you can salvage them by sautéing in a hot skillet with a bit of butter to achieve a firmer texture.

Are there any dietary considerations for sweet potato gnocchi?
Absolutely! This recipe can easily accommodate various dietary needs. Use gluten-free all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version. For vegans, substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let sit for 5 minutes until gelatinous). The cheese can also be replaced with nutritional yeast for a completely dairy-free option.

Can my pets eat sweet potatoes?
Very much so! Sweet potatoes are safe for pets in moderation. Just ensure they are cooked and plain, without any added butter, salt, or spices. A small piece can be a healthy treat for dogs! However, always consult with your veterinarian if you’re introducing new foods into your pet’s diet.