Are you craving a comforting yet sophisticated weeknight meal? Look no further! This recipe takes inspiration from the popular meal kit service, Blue Apron, offering a delightful twist on classic gnocchi. Forget takeout; this homemade gnocchi with brown butter sage sauce is surprisingly easy to make and delivers restaurant-quality flavor in under 30 minutes. It’s the perfect example of delicious dishes achievable with simple ingredients and straightforward techniques, making it ideal for both busy weeknights and special occasions.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade – see tip below!)
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup fresh sage leaves
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts for added crunch
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Gnocchi
If using homemade gnocchi, follow your preferred recipe. For store-bought gnocchi, ensure they are cooked according to package directions. Usually, this involves boiling them in salted water until they float to the surface. Drain well and set aside.
Step 2: Making the Brown Butter Sage Sauce
Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Continue cooking, swirling the pan occasionally, until the butter turns a light brown color and has a nutty aroma. This takes about 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to burn the butter; it will go from light brown to dark brown very quickly!
Step 3: Infusing with Sage
Add the sage leaves to the browned butter and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant and slightly crisp. Remove from heat.
Step 4: Combining and Serving
Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet with the brown butter sage sauce. Toss gently to coat evenly. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste. If using, sprinkle with toasted pine nuts before serving. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Gnocchi:
- Don't overcook the gnocchi! They are ready when they float to the surface of the boiling water. Overcooked gnocchi will become mushy.
- For homemade gnocchi: Using starchy potatoes like russets is key to achieving a light and fluffy texture.
- Brown butter carefully: Keep a close eye on the butter as it browns; it can burn easily.
- Fresh sage is best: The flavor of fresh sage is far superior to dried.
Variations:
- Add protein: Sautéed chicken, shrimp, or mushrooms would be delicious additions to this dish.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
- Cheese it up: Experiment with different cheeses, such as Pecorino Romano or Asiago.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-500 (depending on gnocchi and additions)
- Fat: High (mostly from butter)
- Protein: Moderate
- Carbohydrates: High
This easy gnocchi recipe is perfect for a quick and healthy meal. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking that’s both delicious and satisfying. Whether you're searching for quick dinner ideas or looking to elevate your weeknight meal game, this recipe is a winner. The combination of creamy gnocchi and flavorful brown butter sage sauce is truly irresistible. Enjoy!