1 lb potato gnocchi (shelf-stable or refrigerated)
4 tbsp unsalted butter
1/4 cup fresh sage leaves, chopped (plus a few whole leaves for garnish)
Salt to taste
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
2–3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced (optional)
1 tsp lemon zest (optional)
2 tbsp pine nuts, lightly toasted (optional)
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and add 1 tablespoon of salt.
While waiting for water to boil, prep your ingredients: chop sage leaves, measure butter, and grate cheese if necessary.
Add gnocchi to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, usually just until they float (about 2-3 minutes).
Remove floating gnocchi with a slotted spoon and set aside, reserving 1/4 cup of the starchy cooking water.
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the butter and let it melt completely, then continue cooking until it foams and turns amber with brown flecks (2-3 minutes).
When butter smells nutty and shows light brown bits, immediately lower heat and add the chopped sage, cooking for 30 seconds until crisp and fragrant.
Gently add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the brown butter sage sauce. Add a tablespoon of reserved pasta water if the mixture seems dry.
Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper, then sprinkle with Parmesan cheese while still in the pan.
If using optional ingredients like lemon zest, pine nuts, or red pepper flakes, add them now and gently toss once more.
Serve immediately, topped with additional Parmesan cheese and a few whole sage leaves for garnish.
Notes
Watch the butter carefully as it browns – the line between perfect and burned is thin.
For extra crispy gnocchi, pat them dry after boiling and briefly sauté in the butter before adding sage.
This dish is best enjoyed immediately, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary based on ingredients used, portion sizes, and preparation methods.
Nutrition
Serving Size:1 cup
Calories:325
Sugar:2
Sodium:580
Fat:16
Saturated Fat:9
Unsaturated Fat:6
Carbohydrates:38
Fiber:2
Protein:8
Cholesterol:35
Keywords: 10 minute brown butter sage gnocchi, brown butter gnocchi, sage gnocchi recipe, quick Italian pasta, easy comfort food