Indulgent Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Broccoli Rabe in a Garlic Sage Butter Sauce

Sweet Potato Gnocchi! This is the simplest and most delicious way to whip up Sweet Potato Gnocchi. Pair it with broccoli rabe and a garlic sage butter sauce for an absolutely fantastic meal.

Ingredients:

• Gnocchi:

  • 1 lb sweet potato
  • 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 1/4 cups flour (plus extra for dusting)

• Sauce and Other Ingredients:

  • 5 cups finely chopped broccoli rabe (optional)
  • 8 tablespoons butter
  • 1/3 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 5-6 sage leaves
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Gnocchi:

   • Pierce the sweet potato a few times with a fork, wrap it in a damp paper towel, and microwave until soft, about 7 minutes. Alternatively, you can bake it in the oven for about an hour.
   • Once cooked, scoop out the sweet potato flesh into a mixing bowl and discard the skin.
   • Add ricotta, Parmesan, and salt to the sweet potato. Mix until well combined and almost smooth.
   • Gradually mix in the flour, half a cup at a time, kneading gently after each addition to avoid over-kneading and toughening the dough.
   • Once the dough is manageable, transfer it to a floured surface, shape it into a 9×5 inch loaf, and slice it as you would a loaf of bread.
   • Roll each slice into a long, thin rope, cut the rope into 1-inch pieces, and these are your gnocchi.

2. Cook the Gnocchi:

   • Bring a large pot of water to a boil, add the gnocchi, and cook until they float to the top. Drain and toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

3. Prepare the Broccoli Rabe (optional):

   • Boil water in a large pot, blanch the broccoli rabe for 1 minute, then plunge into ice water to halt cooking. Drain and set aside.

4. Combine and Serve:

   • Heat butter in a large skillet until foaming, add the gnocchi, and pan-fry until golden brown. Do this in batches if necessary.
   • Add the cooked broccoli rabe, minced garlic, sage, and salt to the skillet. Continue to pan-fry for a few more minutes.
   • Remove from heat, let cool slightly so the butter thickens, then stir in the cream and Parmesan cheese.
   • Toss everything gently to coat the gnocchi and broccoli rabe lightly with the sauce.
   • Serve hot, seasoned with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.

Enjoy your homemade sweet potato gnocchi with a rich and creamy garlic sage butter sauce!