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Crispy Brown Butter Sage Gnocchi Recipe with Toasted Walnuts

crispy brown butter sage gnocchi - featured image

A quick and easy recipe featuring crispy pan-fried gnocchi in nutty brown butter with fragrant sage and crunchy toasted walnuts, perfect for cozy dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450 g) potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
  • 4 tbsp (60 g) unsalted butter
  • 1215 fresh sage leaves
  • ½ cup (60 g) walnuts, toasted
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Place ½ cup (60 g) walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat. Toast for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly browned. Remove from pan and set aside.
  2. In a small saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons (60 g) unsalted butter over medium heat. Continue cooking, swirling the pan occasionally, until the butter foams and turns a deep golden brown with a nutty aroma—about 4-6 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in fresh sage leaves (12-15 leaves). Let them crisp up in the hot butter for 1-2 minutes.
  3. If using store-bought gnocchi, they are often pre-cooked and only need crisping. If homemade or frozen, boil them in salted water according to package instructions (usually 2-3 minutes) until they float to the surface. Drain well in a colander, shaking gently to remove excess water.
  4. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large non-stick or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the gnocchi in a single layer, making sure not to crowd the pan. Let cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until the bottoms are golden and crispy. Flip gently and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes until crunchy outside and soft inside.
  5. Pour the browned butter and sage mixture over the crispy gnocchi. Toss gently to coat and warm through for 1-2 minutes. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  6. Plate the gnocchi and sprinkle the toasted walnuts on top. Add a generous grating of Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

Ensure gnocchi is dry before pan-frying to achieve maximum crispiness. Use a mix of olive oil and butter to prevent burning. Watch the butter carefully while browning to avoid burning. Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet to restore crispiness; avoid microwaving.

Nutrition

Keywords: gnocchi, brown butter, sage, toasted walnuts, crispy gnocchi, easy dinner, comfort food, quick recipe