Creamy Garlic Butter and Sage Gnocchi is a dish that marries the simplicity of cooking gnocchi with the richness of butter, garlic, fresh sage, and Parmesan cheese, enveloped in a simple, creamy sauce. This elegant yet straightforward dish is perfect for a cozy dinner at home or an impressive meal for guests.
Gnocchi, those pillowy potato dumplings, serve as the base for this dish. They are known for their soft, tender texture that absorbs flavors beautifully. When cooked correctly, gnocchi have a delicate balance of lightness and substance, making them an ideal canvas for rich sauces and aromatic herbs.
The dish begins by heating unsalted butter in a medium skillet. As the butter melts and begins to bubble, minced garlic is added, infusing the butter with its robust, savory aroma. Garlic, with its characteristic pungency, forms the foundation of the flavor profile, offering depth and warmth to the dish.
Next, roughly chopped fresh sage leaves are introduced. Sage is a herb with a strong, slightly peppery flavor that complements the richness of the butter and garlic. The sage leaves are sautéed until they release their fragrant oils, which meld beautifully with the garlic-infused butter. This step ensures that the gnocchi will be imbued with the aromatic essence of the sage.
To create a luscious sauce, vegetable broth and heavy cream are added to the skillet. The broth provides a savory backbone, while the heavy cream contributes to a velvety texture that coats each gnocchi perfectly. This combination results in a rich and balanced sauce without being overwhelmingly heavy.
Adding lemon zest brings a bright, citrusy note that balances the richness of the cream and butter. The zest brightens the dish with a subtle freshness. Paprika is also included, offering a mild warmth and a hint of smokiness that adds complexity to the sauce.
The gnocchi are then added directly to the skillet with the sauce. Cooking them in the sauce allows them to absorb all the delicious flavors, ensuring each bite is packed with the combined tastes of garlic, sage, and the creamy broth. The gnocchi simmer gently in the sauce, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. This method perfectly cooks the gnocchi and allows the sauce to thicken slightly, clinging to each dumpling.
Once the gnocchi are tender and the sauce has thickened, grated Parmesan cheese is sprinkled over the dish. The cheese melts into the sauce, adding a salty, nutty richness that elevates the overall flavor. Parmesan cheese is a classic pairing with gnocchi, bringing a familiar and comforting taste that ties all the elements together.
To finish, the gnocchi are transferred to serving plates and garnished with crispy sage leaves. The crispy sage adds a delightful texture and an intensified herbal note that contrasts beautifully with the creamy, buttery sauce. An extra sprinkle of Parmesan and a dash of paprika on top provide the final touches, making the dish as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Creamy Garlic Butter and Sage Gnocchi is a dish that showcases the harmonious blend of simple, high-quality ingredients. The rich, aromatic sauce envelops the tender gnocchi, creating a comforting and sophisticated meal. Each bite offers a delightful mix of creamy, savory, and fresh flavors, making this dish a standout choice for any dining occasion. Whether enjoyed as a main course or a luxurious side, this gnocchi dish is sure to impress and satisfy.
Creamy Garlic Butter and Sage Gnocchi
4
servings10
minutes20
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minutesCreamy Garlic Butter and Sage Gnocchi is a rich and elegant dish featuring tender gnocchi coated in a luscious sauce made with garlic, fresh sage, and Parmesan cheese. This comforting and flavorful meal is perfect for a cozy dinner or an impressive dish for guests.
Ingredients
1 pound gnocchi
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves of garlic, minced
10-12 sage leaves, roughly chopped
1 cup vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 lemon, zested
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1/2 teaspoon paprika
to taste, salt and ground black pepper
for garnish, toasted sage leaves
Directions
- Saute the Garlic and Sage:
Heat the butter in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Add the roughly chopped sage leaves to the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic and butter, cooking for another 1-2 minutes. - Add Vegetable Broth and Heavy Cream:
Pour in the vegetable broth and heavy cream. Stir to combine. Add the lemon zest, paprika, salt, and ground black pepper to taste. Stir well. - Cook the Gnocchi:
Add the gnocchi directly to the skillet with the sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook the gnocchi in the skillet, stirring occasionally, for 10 minutes until the gnocchi is cooked through and the sauce thickens slightly. - Finish and Serve:
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the gnocchi and stir to combine. Allow the cheese to melt into the sauce.
Transfer the gnocchi to serving plates. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, extra Parmesan cheese, and a sprinkle of paprika if desired.
Notes
- Sauce Consistency: If the sauce reduces too much, add more vegetable broth to maintain the desired consistency.
- To Make Crispy Sage Leaves:
Heat 1-2 tablespoons of butter or olive oil over medium heat in a small skillet. Add the sage leaves in a single layer once the butter is melted and bubbling or the oil is hot. Fry the sage leaves for 1-2 minutes, or until they become crisp and slightly darker in color. Use a slotted spoon to remove the sage leaves from the skillet and place them on a paper towel to drain any excess oil. Use the crispy sage leaves as a garnish for the gnocchi.