Gnocchi with Brown Butter Sauce – A Simple Yet Luxurious

Gnocchi with Brown Butter Sauce – The Gnocchi with Brown Butter Sauce is a dish that perfectly captures the essence of Italian comfort food — minimal ingredients, maximum flavor, and an undeniably elegant presentation. Gnocchi (pronounced nyoh-kee) are soft, pillowy dumplings typically made from potatoes, flour, and eggs. When paired with a nutty, aromatic brown butter sauce, they transform into a dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated.

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Recipe Overview

• Dish Name: Gnocchi with Brown Butter Sauce

• Cuisine: Italian

• Course: Main Course / Dinner

• Servings: 4

• Calories: ~520 per serving

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Resting Time: 0 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

• Difficulty: Easy

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Ingredients

For the Gnocchi:

(You can use store-bought or homemade gnocchi)

• 1 pound (450g) potato gnocchi (fresh or packaged)

For the Brown Butter Sauce:

• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter

• 8–10 fresh sage leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried sage)

• 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)

• ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• Juice of ½ lemon (optional, for brightness)

For Serving:

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

• A sprinkle of red pepper flakes (optional)

Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling gnocchi

• Skillet or saucepan (preferably stainless steel for browning butter)

• Slotted spoon or strainer

• Wooden spoon or spatula

• Grater for cheese

• Serving plates or bowls

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Gnocchi

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle boil.

2. Add the gnocchi in small batches.

3. Cook until they float to the surface — this usually takes 2–3 minutes.

4. Once they rise, let them cook for 30 more seconds, then remove with a slotted spoon.

5. Transfer the cooked gnocchi to a bowl and lightly drizzle with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Tip: Avoid overcooking the gnocchi, as they can become mushy.

Step 2: Make the Brown Butter Sauce

1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.

2. As it melts, it will begin to foam — swirl the pan occasionally.

3. After 3–5 minutes, you’ll notice the butter turning a golden brown color and releasing a nutty aroma.

4. Add sage leaves and let them crisp for 30 seconds to infuse their flavor into the butter.

5. (Optional) Add minced garlic and sauté for 20 seconds — do not burn it.

6. Remove the pan from the heat once the butter reaches a deep golden color.

7. Season with salt, pepper, and a small squeeze of lemon juice for balance.

Note: Keep a close eye on the butter — it can burn quickly after browning.

Step 3: Combine the Gnocchi and Sauce

1. Add the cooked gnocchi directly into the brown butter sauce.

2. Toss gently until all the gnocchi are coated in the rich, nutty butter.

3. If you like a crispier texture, sauté the gnocchi for 1–2 minutes until slightly golden on the outside.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

1. Transfer the Gnocchi with Brown Butter Sauce onto serving plates.

2. Sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese.

3. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil.

4. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you enjoy a subtle heat.

5. Serve immediately while warm and buttery!

Flavor Profile of Gnocchi with Brown Butter Sauce

1. Nutty and Buttery:

   • The brown butter develops a deep, roasted nut flavor that’s rich and comforting.

2. Herby and Earthy:

   • Fresh sage adds a subtle earthiness and aroma that complements the butter perfectly.

3. Soft and Pillowy:

   • The gnocchi have a light, fluffy texture that soaks up the sauce beautifully.

4. Slightly Toasty:

   • Lightly browning the gnocchi adds a delightful crispness and extra flavor.

5. Balanced and Comforting:

   • The lemon juice and Parmesan bring just enough acidity and saltiness to balance the richness.

Conclusion

The Gnocchi with Brown Butter Sauce is the perfect example of how simplicity can be truly luxurious. With only a few ingredients — butter, sage, and gnocchi — this dish delivers deep, complex flavors that warm both heart and soul. The nutty brown butter coats each tender dumpling in golden richness, while the sage adds an irresistible aromatic touch.