Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Garlic Cream

If you’ve ever thought gnocchi was too intimidating to make from scratch, this Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Garlic Cream recipe is here to change your mind. Soft, pillowy gnocchi made from naturally sweet sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with a luscious garlic cream sauce that will have you swooning over every bite. It’s a cozy, comforting dish that brings a touch of elegance to your weeknight dinner or special occasion table. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make with just a handful of simple ingredients, making it a perfect recipe to add to your culinary repertoire.

Top Reasons to Make Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Garlic Cream

• Deliciously unique: The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes adds a delightful twist to traditional gnocchi.
• Comfort food elevated: The creamy garlic sauce complements the gnocchi perfectly, creating a rich and satisfying dish.
• Simple ingredients: Pantry staples like flour, eggs, and garlic combine with sweet potatoes to create something special.
• Great for gatherings: This dish makes for an impressive yet approachable meal to share with family and friends.
• Versatile meal: Serve it as a main course or a decadent side that pairs well with roasted vegetables or grilled proteins.

Ingredients at a Glance

• 2 cups sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Recommended Tools

• Pot for boiling: To cook the sweet potatoes and later boil the gnocchi.
• Large mixing bowl: For combining the gnocchi dough ingredients thoroughly.
• Potato masher or fork: To mash the cooked sweet potatoes until smooth.
• Slotted spoon: To scoop the gnocchi out of boiling water once they float.
• Large skillet: To prepare the garlic cream sauce and toss cooked gnocchi together.
• Bench scraper or knife: For cutting the gnocchi dough into portions.
• Fork: To create the classic ridges on gnocchi (optional, but adds great texture).

From Start to Finish: Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Garlic Cream

Step 1: Cook and Mash the Sweet Potatoes

Begin by placing the peeled and cubed sweet potatoes into a pot of boiling water. Cook them until they’re fork-tender, about 15 minutes. Drain well and return to the pot or a large bowl. Using a potato masher or fork, mash the sweet potatoes until smooth, ensuring there are no lumps. Let them cool slightly before moving on to keep that egg from scrambling in the dough.

Step 2: Prepare the Gnocchi Dough

Add the large egg, salt, and olive oil to the mashed sweet potatoes and mix well until fully incorporated. Gradually add the all-purpose flour, mixing gently until a soft dough forms. You want the dough to be pliable and just slightly sticky but not wet. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour; if too dry, a splash of water or olive oil can help.

Step 3: Shape the Gnocchi

Divide the dough into four equal parts on a lightly floured surface. Roll each portion into long ropes about 3/4 inch thick. Using a knife or bench scraper, cut the ropes into 1-inch pieces. To create the traditional gnocchi shape, roll each piece down the back of a fork with your thumb to create ridges that help hold the sauce. This step is optional but highly recommended for texture.

Step 4: Boil the Gnocchi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Working in batches, gently drop the gnocchi into the boiling water. They’ll sink initially and then float to the surface when cooked, which typically takes 2-3 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and set aside on a plate.

Step 5: Make the Garlic Cream Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and golden, about 1-2 minutes. Pour in the heavy cream, add nutmeg, and season with salt and pepper. Simmer gently for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked gnocchi into the garlic cream sauce and toss gently to coat each piece evenly. Let it warm through for a minute or two. Remove from heat, garnish with fresh chopped parsley, and serve immediately. For an added touch, pair this dish with a side of Baked Sweet Potato Chips or try the Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Gnocchi Skillet for another gnocchi twist.

Make It Diet-Friendly

• Use coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative to make the sauce dairy-free and lighter.
• Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
• Reduce the olive oil slightly or use cooking spray to lower the fat content.
• Add steamed vegetables like spinach or kale for extra nutrients without many calories.

Testing Timeline

• Initial test: Confirmed the dough consistency and cooking time for perfect pillowy gnocchi.
• Second test: Adjusted the garlic cream sauce seasoning for balance and creaminess.
• Final test: Paired with garnishes and sides to ensure a well-rounded meal experience.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

If you plan to make the gnocchi ahead of time, place the shaped gnocchi on a floured baking sheet in a single layer and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. For longer storage, freeze them on the tray until solid, then transfer to a sealed container or freezer bag for up to one month. Boil frozen gnocchi directly from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the cooking time. The garlic cream sauce is best made fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and gently reheated on the stove.

FAQ

Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?

Absolutely! While this recipe shines with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, regular russet potatoes will work well too. Expect a slightly different flavor and texture, but you’ll still get soft, delicious gnocchi.

How do I know when the gnocchi are cooked?

The best indicator is when the gnocchi float to the surface of the boiling water. Once they rise, give them another 30 seconds to ensure the inside is fully cooked, then remove with a slotted spoon.

Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and shape the gnocchi a few hours in advance. Keep them covered in the refrigerator to prevent drying out. Alternatively, freeze them as described in the Keep-It-Fresh Plan for longer storage.

What can I serve with this Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Garlic Cream?

This dish pairs beautifully with simple salads, roasted vegetables, or grilled proteins. For a delicious snack or crispy side, try Baked Sweet Potato Chips. For a flavor-packed main featuring gnocchi, check out the Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Gnocchi Skillet.

Our Most-Loved Recipes

• Baked Sweet Potato Chips – A crispy, healthier alternative to fries.
• Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Gnocchi Skillet – A hearty, flavor-packed one-pan meal.
• Creamy Mushroom Pasta – Earthy mushrooms meet a velvety sauce for a comforting dinner.
• Lemon Garlic Shrimp – Quick and zesty shrimp with a garlicky kick.

Final Thoughts

Making Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Garlic Cream from scratch is a rewarding kitchen project that results in a dish both elegant and satisfying. The sweet, tender gnocchi combined with the rich, fragrant garlic cream sauce creates a harmony of flavors that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or guests, this recipe is sure to impress without requiring complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. Don’t forget to experiment with sides and garnishes to make it your own signature meal. Happy cooking!

Share on Pinterest