These pillowy, melt-in-your-mouth Gnocchi di Patate, tossed in a fragrant sage butter sauce, are a taste of pure comfort. This classic Italian dish is surprisingly simple to make, even for beginner cooks, and the results are incredibly rewarding. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this irresistible recipe!
Making the Perfect Potato Gnocchi
The key to amazing gnocchi lies in the potatoes. Choose starchy potatoes like russets or Idaho potatoes for the best results. Once boiled until tender, make sure to thoroughly dry them before mashing – excess moisture will make your gnocchi gummy. 
We’ll then incorporate the flour, egg, and a touch of nutmeg for a subtle warmth. The dough should be soft but not sticky; adjust the flour as needed. Learn more about perfecting your gnocchi dough.
Shaping and Cooking the Gnocchi
Once you’ve formed your dough, roll it into long ropes and cut them into small, bite-sized pieces. Use a fork to create ridges on each gnocchi – this increases the surface area and helps them brown beautifully in the pan. 
To cook the gnocchi, simply drop them into boiling, salted water. They’re done when they float to the surface, usually within 2-3 minutes. Careful not to overcook them!
Preparing the Sage Butter Sauce
While your gnocchi cooks, prepare the simple yet elegant sage butter sauce. Clarified butter works best here because it has a higher smoke point, preventing burning. Simply sauté fresh sage leaves in the butter until they are fragrant and slightly crispy. The aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water! Discover our tips for the perfect sage butter sauce.
Bringing it all Together
Once the gnocchi are cooked and the sauce is ready, gently toss the gnocchi in the sage butter. This is where the magic happens. The gnocchi absorb the flavorful butter and become incredibly rich and decadent. Serve immediately, garnished with extra sage leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. [IMAGE_3_HERE] A simple salad on the side is all you need to complete this perfect meal.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
While this recipe is fantastic on its own, feel free to experiment with additions! Consider adding some pancetta or crispy prosciutto for extra flavor and texture. To make it a vegetarian option, sautéed mushrooms are also a delicious addition. Check out some creative variations. For a complete meal, a side of simple green salad or roasted vegetables is a perfect match.
This dish is a wonderful option for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It’s incredibly versatile and always a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!
Conclusion
Making gnocchi from scratch might seem daunting at first, but with this recipe, you’ll see how easy and rewarding it can be. The combination of fluffy potato gnocchi and the aromatic sage butter is truly divine – a testament to the simple elegance of Italian cuisine. We hope you enjoy this delicious recipe as much as we do!
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of potatoes should I use? Starchy potatoes like russets or Idaho potatoes are best for gnocchi as they provide the right texture.
Can I make the gnocchi ahead of time? Yes, you can make the gnocchi dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Cook them just before serving.
What if I don’t have clarified butter? You can use regular butter, just be careful not to burn it. Use medium-low heat and watch it closely.
Can I freeze the gnocchi? Yes, you can freeze the uncooked gnocchi on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. Cook them straight from frozen by adding a couple of minutes to the cooking time.
What other herbs can I use instead of sage? Rosemary or thyme would also be delicious in the butter sauce.
