Introduction

Gnocchi with Brown Butter & Sage Sauce is a luxuriously simple Italian dish that transforms soft, pillowy potato gnocchi into a restaurant-quality meal. The magic happens when the gnocchi is tossed in nutty brown butter infused with aromatic sage, creating a sauce that is rich, fragrant, and comforting.

This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, date nights, or holiday meals, as it’s quick to prepare yet feels indulgent. The combination of tender gnocchi, browned butter, and fresh sage results in a perfectly balanced flavor profile: buttery, earthy, slightly nutty, and aromatic.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love Gnocchi with Brown Butter & Sage Sauce because it’s the perfect balance of simplicity and elegance. The gnocchi is soft and pillowy, almost melting in your mouth, while the brown butter adds a rich, nutty depth that feels luxurious without being heavy. The crispy sage leaves provide an aromatic, earthy contrast that elevates the dish, making every bite fragrant and flavorful.

What makes it truly special for me is how effortless it feels—you can create a dish that tastes like it came from a fine Italian restaurant in less than 20 minutes. It’s comforting, satisfying, and visually appealing, making it a dish I love to serve to both family and guests. Each bite is warm, buttery, and slightly herbal, embodying the essence of cozy Italian cooking.

Why This is a Must-Try Dish

• Quick and elegant: Ready in under 20 minutes.
• Rich yet light: Brown butter gives depth without heavy cream.
• Comforting and cozy: Perfect for fall and winter evenings.
• Restaurant-quality at home: Simple ingredients, luxurious taste.
• Kid- and adult-approved: The flavors appeal to everyone.

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 5 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10–12 minutes
• Total Time: 15–17 minutes

Servings & Nutrition

• Servings: 4
• Calories: ~450 per serving

Course & Cuisine

• Course: Main Dish / Pasta
• Cuisine: Italian / Comfort Food

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 10–12 fresh sage leaves
• 1/4 tsp salt, or to taste
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• Optional: toasted pine nuts for garnish

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Cook the Gnocchi

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add gnocchi and cook according to package instructions until they float to the top (usually 2–3 minutes).
3. Use a slotted spoon to remove gnocchi and set aside, reserving 1/4 cup of the cooking water.

Step 2: Make the Brown Butter & Sage Sauce

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
2. Continue cooking, swirling occasionally, until butter turns golden brown and smells nutty (about 3–5 minutes).
3. Add sage leaves and cook for 1 minute until crispy.

Step 3: Combine Gnocchi and Sauce

1. Add cooked gnocchi to the skillet.
2. Toss gently to coat in the brown butter and sage.
3. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
4. Season with salt and black pepper.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese.

Step 4: Serve

• Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan and optional toasted pine nuts.

How to Serve

• Serve hot as a main dish or a side with roasted meats or vegetables.
• Pair with a light salad and a crisp white wine for a complete Italian-inspired meal.

Recipe Tips

• Use fresh sage for the best flavor; dried sage won’t crisp properly.
• Be careful not to burn the butter; it should be golden brown and aromatic.
• Toss gnocchi gently to avoid breaking them.
• Add a splash of pasta water if sauce is too thick.
• Parmesan enhances flavor but can be omitted for a dairy-light version.

Variations

• Protein addition: Add sautéed chicken or shrimp for a heartier dish.
• Cheese variations: Use Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
• Nutty crunch: Garnish with toasted walnuts or hazelnuts.
• Vegetable boost: Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or asparagus.
• Vegan version: Use vegan butter and omit Parmesan.

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftover gnocchi and sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days.
• Freezer: Not recommended; gnocchi texture deteriorates when frozen.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet with a small splash of water or butter to restore silkiness.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling gnocchi
• Large skillet for sauce
• Slotted spoon
• Wooden spoon or spatula

FAQ

Q1: Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

• Yes! Fresh or frozen store-bought gnocchi works perfectly.

Q2: How do I know when the butter is browned enough?

• It should be golden brown with a nutty aroma and no black specks.

Q3: Can I make this ahead of time?

• Make gnocchi ahead, but cook the brown butter sauce fresh before tossing to maintain flavor and texture.

Q4: Can I add vegetables?

• Absolutely! Sauté mushrooms, spinach, or asparagus and toss with gnocchi before serving.

Conclusion

Gnocchi with Brown Butter & Sage Sauce is a simple yet elegant Italian dish that’s rich, comforting, and full of flavor. Its pillowy gnocchi paired with nutty brown butter and aromatic sage creates a restaurant-quality meal at home with minimal effort. It’s a recipe that’s quick, versatile, and unforgettable, making it a must-try for pasta lovers everywhere.