Name: Delicious Sweet Potato Gnocchi: Easy, Vegan Comfort Food
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 680-700 g Sweet Potatoes (Medium-sized; the star ingredient); 180 g Plain White Flour (Can substitute with gluten-free flour); 1 pinch Salt (Optional but recommended)

As I stood by the kitchen counter, the warm aroma of roasted sweet potatoes filled the air, and I couldn’t help but smile. Homemade Sweet Potato Gnocchi has become my go-to comfort food, and it’s not just delicious—it’s a breeze to make! With just two main ingredients, this gluten-free and vegan dish is your ticket to a quick and satisfying dinner any night of the week. Imagine tender, pillowy gnocchi that not only satisfies your cravings but also fits perfectly into your busy schedule. Whether you’re entertaining guests or looking for an easy meal prep option, this recipe is a win. Who’s ready to take a dive into a world of delightful homemade flavors? Let’s get cooking!

Why make sweet potato gnocchi?

Simplicity at Its Best: With just two main ingredients, you can create a delightful homemade meal without the fuss.

Quick Dinner Option: Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe comes together in no time, leaving you with more moments to enjoy with loved ones.

Flavorful and Fun: The sweet potatoes add a subtle sweetness and unique taste, elevating your ordinary pasta experience.

Gluten-Free and Vegan: This dish caters to dietary needs, making it suitable for everyone at your table.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Impress your friends and family with these light and fluffy gnocchi that can be paired with various sauces like homemade pesto or even a cherry tomato basil sauce.

Get ready to ditch fast food for a wholesome, homemade option that satisfies your comfort food cravings!

Sweet Potato Gnocchi Ingredients

• Make this delicious dish with just two main ingredients!

For the Gnocchi

Sweet Potatoes – The star of the show; choose medium-sized potatoes (680-700g) for the best flavor and texture.
Plain White Flour – Provides the necessary structure; roughly 180g (1½ cups), but feel free to substitute with gluten-free flour for a dietary-friendly option.
Pinch of Salt – Optional but highly recommended to enhance the flavors of your sweet potato gnocchi.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Step 1: Roast the Sweet Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 180°C (360°F). Carefully prick the medium-sized sweet potatoes with a fork to allow steam to escape, then place them in a baking dish. Roast them for about 60 minutes, turning halfway through until they’re tender and the skin looks slightly wrinkled. If you’re short on time, you can microwave them on high for about 8 minutes instead.

Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potato Mash
Once the sweet potatoes are cooked through, allow them to cool for about 10 minutes before peeling off the skin. Place the soft sweet potato flesh in a large mixing bowl and mash it until it’s smooth and free of lumps. This creates a luscious base for your Sweet Potato Gnocchi, so ensure it’s well-mashed for the best texture.

Step 3: Make the Dough
Gradually sprinkle in approximately 180g of white flour into the sweet potato mash. Using your hands, gently knead the mixture until a soft dough forms; be careful not to overwork it. If the dough feels too sticky, add additional flour as necessary. The goal is a cohesive, manageable dough that still feels tender and fluffy, a hallmark of perfect gnocchi.

Step 4: Shape the Gnocchi
Transfer the dough onto a well-floured surface and shape it into a ball. Cut the dough into four equal pieces, rolling each piece out to a thickness of about ½ inch. Use a knife or bench scraper to cut the flattened dough into small squares, approximately 1 inch each, the classic size for homemade Sweet Potato Gnocchi.

Step 5: Form the Gnocchi Shapes
Take each square and roll it gently between your palms to form little pillow shapes. To create the traditional gnocchi ridges, press each piece gently against a fork or your thumb. This step not only adds texture but also helps the sauce cling beautifully to your Sweet Potato Gnocchi when served.

Step 6: Cook the Gnocchi
Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle boil over medium heat. Add the gnocchi in batches, careful not to overcrowd the pot. Boil them for about 2-3 minutes until they rise to the surface, a clear sign that they’re done. Use a slotted spoon to remove the gnocchi and place them on a paper towel to drain excess water.

Step 7: Optional Pan-Fry for Extra Flavor
For a delicious finishing touch, heat a frying pan over medium heat and add a bit of butter or olive oil. Add the cooked gnocchi and sauté until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside, about 3-4 minutes. This step adds a scrumptious crunch, enhancing the overall flavor of your homemade Sweet Potato Gnocchi, making it irresistible!

Sweet Potato Gnocchi Variations

Feel free to put your own spin on this delicious recipe and make it truly yours!

Dairy-Free Sauce: Swap traditional sauces with a creamy almond or cashew cream sauce for a rich, vegan alternative.
Embrace nutty flavors that will make your Sweet Potato Gnocchi feel indulgent yet wholesome.
Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the dough for a subtle kick.
This hint of heat nicely contrasts with the sweetness of the potatoes, creating a balance that delights your palate.
Herb-Infused Dough: Mix in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme directly into the gnocchi dough for added flavor.
This simple addition transforms the taste, giving it a garden-fresh aroma that’s irresistible.
Nutty Crunch: Fold in some finely chopped walnuts or pine nuts for delightful texture.
They add a pleasant surprise in each bite and can elevate your gnocchi to the next level of gourmet comfort food.
Cauliflower Gnocchi: For a lower-carb option, swap the sweet potatoes with cooked and mashed cauliflower (adjust flour accordingly).
You’ll create a light, airy version that’s just as satisfying and perfect for the health-conscious.
Sweet Potato Variants: Experiment with other sweet varieties, like purple or Japanese sweet potatoes, to add a pop of color.
These alternatives not only look gorgeous but bring unique flavors and nutrition to your dish.
Crispy Gnocchi: Before boiling, toss gnocchi in breadcrumbs and pan-fry until golden and crispy.
This extra texture adds a fun layer and makes every bite more delightful!
Sautéed Veggies: Mix cooked gnocchi with fresh, seasonal vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
Combine textures and tastes that create a well-rounded meal bursting with vibrant colors.

Feel encouraged to explore these twists for flavorful meals that fit your taste buds perfectly!

What to Serve with Two-Ingredient Gluten-Free Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Elevate your meal experience with delightful pairings that beautifully complement the soft, pillowy gnocchi.

Sage Butter Sauce: The nutty fragrance and earthy flavor of sage enhance the sweet potatoes, creating a warm, comforting dish.
Cherry Tomato Pasta Sauce: Bright, tangy tomatoes contrast the creamy sweetness of the gnocchi, adding a vibrant color and flavor boost.
Garlic Sautéed Spinach: A pop of greenery, sautéed spinach adds a fresh, vibrant touch while complementing the softness of the gnocchi beautifully.
Olive Oil and Parmesan: Drizzle with rich olive oil and sprinkle with vegan parmesan for a simple yet delectable finish that intensifies flavors.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy brussels sprouts bring a wonderful crunch, offering a savory balance that rounds out the meal wonderfully.
Vegetable Medley: Tossed seasonal vegetables add color and freshness, creating a light, balanced plate perfect for this hearty gnocchi.
Lemon Zest Spritz: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the dish, cutting through the richness and enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Red Wine Pairing: A glass of fruity red wine brings depth to the meal, an inviting complement to the gnocchi’s sweet flavor.
Chocolate Mousse: End on a sweet note! A rich, fluffy chocolate mousse makes for an indulgent yet light dessert to balance the savory main.

Helpful Tricks for Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Well-Mashed Sweet Potatoes: Ensure the sweet potatoes are completely smooth to avoid any lumps in your gnocchi, which can compromise texture.
Flour Control: Add flour gradually to the sweet potato mash. Too much flour can lead to dense gnocchi, while too little can make them fall apart.
Prevent Sticking: Dust your work surface generously with flour while shaping the gnocchi. This prevents sticking and makes rolling easier.
Cooling Before Freezing: Let your gnocchi cool completely on a paper towel before freezing. This helps them maintain their shape and texture when cooked later.
Cooking in Batches: Don’t overcrowd the pot when boiling gnocchi; cooking them in batches ensures they cook evenly and float to the top perfectly.
Creative Serving: Try mixing your Sweet Potato Gnocchi with different sauces or sautéed vegetables for a twist on the traditional recipe, enhancing flavors and textures!

How to Store and Freeze Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Fridge: Store your homemade Sweet Potato Gnocchi in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for quick meals!

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the boiled gnocchi in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating: Thaw frozen gnocchi overnight in the fridge. When ready to eat, pan-fry in a little olive oil or butter for a crispy finish, or warm them gently in your favorite sauce.

Pre-Cooking Tips: Allow gnocchi to cool completely before freezing to maintain their delightful texture when cooked later.

Make Ahead Options

These Sweet Potato Gnocchi are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the gnocchi dough up to 24 hours in advance, saving precious time on busy weeknights. Simply whip up the dough, shape it into gnocchi, and refrigerate them in an airtight container. If you want to prep even further, fully cooked gnocchi can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember to let them cool completely before refrigerating to maintain their wonderful texture. When you’re ready to serve, just boil the gnocchi until they float and sauté them in butter or your favorite sauce for that delightful finish. Enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!

Sweet Potato Gnocchi Recipe FAQs

What type of sweet potatoes should I use for gnocchi?
Absolutely! Opt for medium-sized sweet potatoes (about 680-700g) with smooth skin and no dark spots. They’ll yield a sweeter and creamier texture that elevates your gnocchi.

How do I store leftover sweet potato gnocchi?
You can store your homemade Sweet Potato Gnocchi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking!

Can I freeze sweet potato gnocchi?
Yes, you can! After boiling, allow the gnocchi to cool completely. Then spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. After that, transfer them to an airtight container or a freezer bag for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and pan-fry for a crispy finish!

What should I do if my gnocchi is too sticky?
If your gnocchi dough is sticky, don’t worry! Simply dust your work surface and your hands with flour. If it remains too wet during shaping, gradually incorporate a little more flour until it’s manageable. The key is achieving a soft yet workable dough, so avoid adding too much flour to keep them tender.

Is this recipe suitable for those with gluten allergies?
Very! This Sweet Potato Gnocchi recipe is not only vegan but can easily be made gluten-free. Substitute the plain white flour with a gluten-free blend to enjoy the same delicious texture without compromising on taste. Always double-check labels for any potential allergens!