Comforting Gnocchi and Sage Butter

Name: Comforting Gnocchi and Sage Butter
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound potato gnocchi; Salt (for boiling water); 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 10 fresh sage leaves; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Family Comfort Meals

I absolutely adore this Comforting Gnocchi and Sage Butter recipe. It's a wonderful combination of soft, pillowy gnocchi tossed in a rich, aromatic sage-infused butter sauce. What I love most is how it elevates a simple dish with just a few ingredients. In under 30 minutes, I can serve a comforting meal that feels both luxurious and homey, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or when welcome guests arrive. The flavor of the sage truly shines when combined with the buttery goodness, creating a dish that's hard to resist.

Created by

Lina

Last updated on 2026-01-18T15:14:28.114Z

One rainy evening, I decided to whip up something comforting, and that’s when I found myself making gnocchi with sage butter. The simplicity of it amazed me as I tossed fresh sage in melted butter, releasing an incredible aroma that filled my kitchen. I was instantly transported to Italy with every flavorful bite.

What really sets this dish apart is the texture of the gnocchi. By cooking them until they float, I knew they were perfectly tender. Adding freshly grated Parmesan just before serving gave it that extra kick of flavor. I can’t wait for you to experience this delightful dish!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The delightful aroma of bubbling sage butter fills your kitchen.
Pillowy gnocchi melt in your mouth with every bite.
Quick and easy preparation makes it perfect for any night.

      

Understanding Gnocchi

Choosing high-quality potato gnocchi is key to achieving the perfect texture in this dish. Fresh gnocchi, often found in the refrigerated aisle, offers a tender bite that contrasts beautifully with the crispy sage leaves. If you’re unable to find fresh gnocchi, look for high-quality frozen options. Just remember to follow the cooking instructions carefully, as frozen gnocchi may take a little longer to float, typically around 3-4 minutes.

When cooking gnocchi, boiling in salted water is essential. The water helps to flavor the gnocchi while also providing a gentle environment for cooking. Keep an eye out for the changes in shape and texture; once they start to float, it's a clear indication they are nearly done. Using a slotted spoon to remove them ensures a gentle lift, preventing any potential breakage.

Unlocking Sage Butter's Potential

The butter's quality plays a crucial role in the overall flavor of this dish. Unsalted butter allows you to control the seasoning, encouraging the natural sweetness of the butter to shine through. I prefer to use European-style butter for its high fat content, which produces a more intense buttery flavor. The key is to melt it slowly over medium heat—this avoids browning it prematurely and allows the flavors of the sage to infuse fully.

To really bring out the essence of sage, don’t skip the step of frying it in butter. The leaves will crisp up, providing a gorgeous contrast to the soft gnocchi. It’s important to watch closely as the butter turns golden; you want a nuttiness but avoid burning, which can create an unpleasant bitterness. Feel free to experiment with additional herbs like thyme or rosemary for varied flavor profiles.

Ingredients

Gnocchi

1 pound potato gnocchi
Salt (for boiling water)

Sage Butter Sauce

4 tablespoons unsalted butter
10 fresh sage leaves
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Enjoy your delicious Comforting Gnocchi and Sage Butter!

Instructions

Cook the Gnocchi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the potato gnocchi and cook according to the package instructions or until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Make the Sage Butter

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the fresh sage leaves and cook until the butter is golden and the sage is crispy, about 3-4 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet with the sage butter and toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately.

Delight in the comforting flavors of your creamy, sage-infused dish!

Pro Tips

For an extra depth of flavor, add a splash of white wine to the skillet after cooking the sage but before adding the gnocchi.

Storing and Reheating

Leftover gnocchi and sage butter can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, be cautious not to overcook the gnocchi, as they can become gummy. The best method is to heat them gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or additional butter to keep them moist and prevent sticking.

If you want to make this dish ahead of time, consider preparing the sage butter separately. It can be stored in the refrigerator for about a week or even frozen for up to three months. To serve, simply reheat the butter, then add your freshly cooked gnocchi, tossing to combine and heat through.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

For a heartier dish, you can add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the gnocchi and sage butter mixture. These ingredients blend wonderfully with the buttery sauce and provide a nutritious boost. Additionally, consider incorporating diced roasted vegetables for a colorful, vibrant presentation that makes this dish truly pop on the plate.

If you're looking to add a touch of creaminess, try finishing the dish with a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of crème fraîche. This luxurious addition enhances the sauce and creates a more decadent flavor profile. Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up any remaining sage butter for a complete, satisfying meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Absolutely! Store-bought gnocchi saves time and is just as delicious.

→ What if I can't find fresh sage?

You can use dried sage, but reduce the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, sautéed spinach or peas can be great additions for extra flavor and nutrition.

→ Is the sauce gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free gnocchi, this recipe will be gluten-free.