It’s so easy to make soft, fluffy 5 Ingredient Sweet Potato Gnocchi with just five easy-to-find ingredients. This delightful dish is perfect for weeknights, special occasions, or holiday gatherings. Its unique combination of flavors and textures makes it a standout meal that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simplicity: With only five main ingredients, you can whip up this dish in no time.
- Flavorful: The nutty brown butter combined with garlic and rosemary elevates the sweet potato gnocchi to a new level.
- Versatile: Enjoy it as a main dish or as a side; it pairs well with various proteins and vegetables.
- Comforting: The warm, fluffy gnocchi is a comforting treat that’s perfect for any season.
- Impressive Presentation: Serve it topped with crispy chicken sausage for a beautiful and delicious meal.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large bowl
- Baking tray
- Pot for boiling water
- Slotted spoon
- High-sided pan or skillet
Importance of Each Tool
- Large bowl: Necessary for mixing the sweet potato and ricotta, giving you ample space to combine everything smoothly.
- Baking tray: Helps roast the sweet potatoes evenly, ensuring they become tender and flavorful.
- Slotted spoon: Perfect for transferring cooked gnocchi from the pot to the sauce without excess water.

Ingredients
- 500g/1lb sweet potato (roughly 2 medium)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup ricotta
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 1/4 cups plain flour
- 50g/2oz chicken sausage, casing removed and diced (optional)
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 3 garlic cloves, crushed
- 1 sprig of rosemary, stem removed
- 1 teaspoon flaky salt
- Grated parmesan cheese
How to Make 5 Ingredient Sweet Potato Gnocchi
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Heat your oven to 400F/200C fan. Line an oven tray with baking paper. Slice your sweet potatoes in half and drizzle the exposed sides with olive oil. Place them cut-side down on the prepared tray and roast for about 30 minutes until tender.
Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potato Mixture
Once roasted, scoop out the sweet potato flesh into a large bowl. Add ricotta, grated parmesan, salt, and nutmeg. Mix until well combined but not perfectly smooth.
Step 3: Form the Dough
Working in batches of about half a cup, gradually add flour to the mixture until just combined. Keep adding flour until the dough is less sticky and manageable.
Step 4: Shape the Gnocchi
Lightly flour a clean surface. Transfer the dough onto it and form it into a chunky log. Cut off roughly one-inch pieces from one end. Roll each piece into long ropes before slicing them into one-inch segments. Transfer them to a lined tray.
Step 5: Cook Chicken Sausage (Optional)
If using chicken sausage, heat a high-sided pan over high heat. Cook diced sausage until crispy, then transfer to a plate while reserving any oil in the pan. Add butter and let it melt until it turns golden brown with a nutty aroma.
Step 6: Boil Gnocchi
Bring a large pot of water to boil. Add gnocchi and cook until they float to the top; this indicates they’re ready.
Step 7: Combine Gnocchi with Sauce
Using a slotted spoon, transfer cooked gnocchi directly into the pan with brown butter. Toss gently while returning heat to medium. Let it sit undisturbed for several minutes for crispiness before adding crushed garlic, flaky salt, and rosemary leaves.
Divide onto plates, top with crispy chicken sausage, additional grated parmesan if desired, and enjoy your delicious homemade 5 Ingredient Sweet Potato Gnocchi!
How to Serve 5 Ingredient Sweet Potato Gnocchi
Serving your 5 Ingredient Sweet Potato Gnocchi can elevate this simple dish into a delightful dining experience. Here are a few creative ways to present and enjoy this beautiful meal.
With Crispy Chicken Sausage
- Pair the gnocchi with crispy chicken sausage for added flavor and protein. The rich taste of the sausage complements the sweetness of the gnocchi perfectly.
Drizzled with Brown Butter Sauce
- Enhance the dish by drizzling extra brown butter over the top before serving. This adds both richness and a nutty aroma that will impress your guests.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Garnish the gnocchi with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness. This not only looks beautiful but also adds a layer of flavor.
Served with a Side Salad
- Accompany your gnocchi with a light side salad to balance the meal. A simple mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and vinaigrette works wonderfully.
In a Creamy Sauce
- For an indulgent twist, toss your gnocchi in a creamy sauce made from ricotta or plant-based alternatives. This creates a whole new dimension of flavor.
How to Perfect 5 Ingredient Sweet Potato Gnocchi
Making perfect sweet potato gnocchi requires attention to detail and some helpful tips. Follow these suggestions for optimal results.
- Use the right sweet potatoes: Choose firm, dry sweet potatoes for mashing. Avoid overly moist varieties, as they can make your dough too sticky.
- Measure flour carefully: Start with less flour and add more gradually until you achieve the right consistency. This helps prevent dense gnocchi.
- Don’t overwork the dough: Mix just until combined. Overworking can lead to tough gnocchi instead of soft and fluffy ones.
- Cook in batches: If making large quantities, cook your gnocchi in small batches to avoid overcrowding, ensuring even cooking.
Best Side Dishes for 5 Ingredient Sweet Potato Gnocchi
Complementing your 5 Ingredient Sweet Potato Gnocchi with delicious side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Roasted Broccoli
A flavorful vegetable side that adds crunch and pairs well with the creamy texture of gnocchi. - Sautéed Spinach with Lemon
Lightly sautéed spinach brightened with lemon juice offers freshness that balances the richness of the main dish. - Herbed Quinoa Salad
A nutty quinoa salad mixed with fresh herbs provides a healthy grain option alongside the gnocchi. - Caprese Salad
This classic Italian salad made from fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil adds vibrant colors and tastes wonderful together. - Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Caramelized Brussels sprouts add depth and flavor contrast that works beautifully alongside sweet potato gnocchi. - Mushroom Risotto
Creamy risotto infused with mushrooms brings an earthy flavor that complements the sweetness of the gnocchi nicely.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making 5 Ingredient Sweet Potato Gnocchi can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can hinder your success. Here’s how to avoid them:
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Using too much or too little of any ingredient can alter the dough’s texture. Always use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
- Overworking the dough: Kneading the dough too much can make it tough. Mix until just combined to keep the gnocchi soft and fluffy.
- Skipping the resting time: If you don’t allow the dough to rest, it may become too sticky. Let it sit for about 10 minutes after mixing.
- Cooking gnocchi in too small a batch: Cooking too many gnocchi at once can lead to uneven cooking. Work in smaller batches for perfect results.
- Not using enough flour on your work surface: A sticky dough will make it hard to shape the gnocchi. Dust your work surface generously with flour while rolling and cutting.
- Ignoring cooking time: Cooking gnocchi for too long can make them mushy. As soon as they float, they are done!

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Ensure the gnocchi is cooled completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezing 5 Ingredient Sweet Potato Gnocchi
- Place uncooked gnocchi on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid.
- Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container; they will last up to 2 months.
Reheating 5 Ingredient Sweet Potato Gnocchi
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), spread gnocchi on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish with a little water, cover, and heat for 1-2 minutes until warm.
- Stovetop: Sauté in butter or oil over medium heat until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making 5 Ingredient Sweet Potato Gnocchi.
Can I use other types of potatoes?
You can use other potatoes, but sweet potatoes give unique flavor and texture. Regular potatoes will create a different taste profile.
How do I know when the gnocchi are cooked?
Gnocchi are ready when they float to the surface of boiling water, usually within 2-3 minutes.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute plain flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking.
What can I serve with my sweet potato gnocchi?
These gnocchi pair well with roasted vegetables, sage butter sauce, or even a light tomato sauce.
What if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough feels sticky, gradually mix in more flour until it reaches a manageable consistency without overworking it.
Final Thoughts
This 5 Ingredient Sweet Potato Gnocchi recipe is not only easy but also versatile and delicious. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite herbs or proteins. Try making it today for an impressive yet simple meal!
5 Ingredient Sweet Potato Gnocchi
Indulge in the delightful comfort of 5 Ingredient Sweet Potato Gnocchi, a simple yet impressive dish that will elevate any meal. With just five easy-to-find ingredients, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, special occasions, or holiday gatherings. The nutty brown butter, combined with garlic and rosemary, adds a rich depth of flavor to the fluffy sweet potato gnocchi. Whether enjoyed as a main course or paired with proteins like chicken sausage, this comforting dish is sure to please everyone at the table.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 500g sweet potato
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 1/4 cups plain flour
- Optional: 50g chicken sausage
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400F (200C). Cut sweet potatoes in half, drizzle with olive oil, and roast cut-side down on a lined tray for about 30 minutes until tender.
- Scoop out the flesh into a bowl and mix with ricotta, parmesan, salt, and nutmeg until combined.
- Gradually add flour until the dough is manageable but not sticky.
- Roll into logs and cut into one-inch pieces. Transfer to a lined tray.
- Cook gnocchi in boiling water until they float (2-3 minutes).
- Toss in browned butter with crushed garlic and rosemary.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg



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