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The kitchen had taken an unexpected turn when I decided to experiment with sweet potatoes one Sunday afternoon. The allure of their vibrant color and natural sweetness was too strong to resist. As I peeled and mashed them, the aroma wafting through my home reminded me of cozy family dinners filled with laughter and love. That’s when the idea of creating sweet potato gnocchi struck me—soft, pillowy bites of comfort, perfectly paired with a savory maple bacon sauce that’s sure to impress anyone at your table.

This delightful twist on traditional gnocchi not only offers a simple yet effective way to elevate your pasta night but also embraces the goodness of gluten-free options. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this dish can easily become a showstopper without hours of preparation. Imagine digging into a plate of gnocchi that’s not only rich in flavor but also sets a warm, inviting tone for your meal; it’s truly a treat for the senses! Let’s jump into the process of making this scrumptious dish that could have everyone raving about your culinary skills!

Why is Sweet Potato Gnocchi a must-try?

Comforting, this homemade gnocchi brings warmth and indulgence to your dinner table, making it the ideal comfort food. Unique twist: Combining sweet potatoes with the traditional recipe lends a delightful sweetness that’s hard to resist. Gluten-free options ensure everyone can partake in this delicious dish. Simple steps mean you’ll have impressive, soft gnocchi in no time. Have fun experimenting with variations, or serve it next to roasted veggies for a wholesome meal. Embrace this recipe and watch your loved ones lean in for more!

Sweet Potato Gnocchi Ingredients

• Get ready for a delicious twist on a classic!

For the Gnocchi Dough

Sweet Potatoes – Provides the base for the gnocchi and can be replaced with pumpkin for a different flavor.
Ricotta – Adds creaminess; substitute with cottage cheese or omit for a lighter gnocchi.
Maple Syrup – Enhances sweetness in the dough; use honey as an alternative.
Kosher Salt – Essential for flavor enhancement; regular salt works too.
Sweet Paprika – Adds warmth; smoked paprika can replace it for more flavor.
Black Pepper – Provides spice; use freshly ground for the best taste.
Nutmeg – Adds depth; a pinch enhances the sweet potato flavor.
Egg – Binds the dough; omit for vegan versions or replace with a flaxseed egg.
Whole Wheat Flour & All-Purpose Flour – Provide structure; substitute all-purpose with gluten-free flour as desired.

For the Maple Bacon Sauce

Thick-Cut Bacon – Adds a savory component; swap for turkey bacon or omit for a vegetarian option.
Butter – Enhances richness; replace with olive oil for a dairy-free option.
Bourbon – Adds depth to the sauce; omit for a straightforward flavor.
Smoked Paprika (for serving) – Optional finish that adds a smoky touch.
Parmesan Cheese (for serving) – Provides salty, nutty flavor; skip for a dairy-free meal.
Fresh Herbs (for garnish) – Brightens the dish; basil or parsley works beautifully.

Now that you have your ingredients ready, get set to create the sweet potato gnocchi that will undoubtedly become a family favorite!

How to Make Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Cook Sweet Potatoes: Bake sweet potatoes at 400°F for 1 hour, or microwave for 5-10 minutes until tender. Once cooked, allow them to cool, then peel and mash them until smooth.
Mix Dough Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, ricotta, maple syrup, kosher salt, sweet paprika, black pepper, nutmeg, and egg. Stir until fully blended and creamy.
Add Flour: Gradually incorporate both whole wheat and all-purpose flour into the mixture, stirring until you achieve a soft, non-sticky dough. Adjust the flour as necessary to get the right texture.
Chill Dough: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean cloth, and refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour. This will help achieve the best texture during cooking.
Shape Gnocchi: Roll the chilled dough into long ropes then cut it into small pieces. To create the traditional gnocchi shape, use a fork to press gently against each piece, making grooves.
Cook Gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi in batches—when they float to the surface (about 2-3 minutes), they’re ready. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain.
Prepare Sauce: In a skillet, cook diced thick-cut bacon until crispy. Add butter, maple syrup, bourbon, and smoked paprika, stirring to combine. Toss the cooked gnocchi in the sauce until well coated.
Serve: Plate the gnocchi, then top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with your choice of fresh herbs for a burst of flavor!

Optional: Drizzle with extra maple syrup for added sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Storage Tips for Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Room Temperature: Freshly made gnocchi can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 hours before cooking. Make sure to keep them covered to prevent drying out.
Fridge: Store cooked gnocchi in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
Freezer: Freeze uncooked sweet potato gnocchi in a single layer on a floured baking sheet. Once firm, transfer to an airtight container for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating: To reheat, boil gnocchi directly from frozen until they float (about 2-3 minutes), or sauté in a pan with sauce for a delightful finish!

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 by following the first four steps and then refrigerating it until you’re ready to shape the gnocchi. To maintain that soft and pillowy texture, cover the dough tightly to prevent it from drying out. If you want to save even more time, you can also shape the gnocchi and freeze them in a single layer on a floured tray, then transfer to an airtight container. When it’s time to eat, simply cook the frozen gnocchi straight from the freezer—just add a minute or two to the boiling time—and toss them in your maple bacon sauce for a quick, comforting meal that’s just as delicious!

What to Serve with Sweet Potato Gnocchi?

Creating a memorable meal is all about thoughtful pairings that enhance every bite and delight the senses.

Crispy Garlic Brussels Sprouts: The roasted, caramelized flavor of Brussels sprouts contrasts beautifully with the sweet potato gnocchi, adding crunch and depth to your plate. Toss them in garlic and olive oil for a delicious side.
Simple Arugula Salad: With its peppery notes and fresh texture, arugula salad with a light lemon vinaigrette can offer a refreshing counterpoint to the rich maple bacon sauce. The greens provide a vibrant touch, balancing the warmth of the gnocchi.
Honey Glazed Carrots: The natural sweetness of honey-glazed carrots harmonizes with the sweetness of the gnocchi while adding a colorful pop to your dinner table. Roast them for a tender, flavorful side that pairs well with the whole meal.
Creamy Mushroom Risotto: Rich and creamy risotto complements the gnocchi’s soft texture, creating a decadent contrast. This luxurious dish adds an earthy flavor that enhances your Friday night feast.
Savory Parmesan Polenta: Silky polenta topped with a sprinkle of Parmesan creates a comforting duo when served alongside sweet potato gnocchi. The slightly nutty flavor of the polenta finishes the meal on a hearty note.
Zesty Lemonade: A refreshing glass of zesty lemonade can cleanse the palate between bites, offsetting the richness of the bacon sauce while keeping the meal light and tantalizing.
Chocolate Lava Cake: For dessert, a molten chocolate lava cake provides the perfect sweet finale, with its rich, gooey center inviting you to linger over the meal just a little longer.

Expert Tips for Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Cool Before Mashing: Make sure sweet potatoes are fully cooled before mashing; excess moisture can ruin the dough’s texture.
Flour Balance: Use enough bench flour while rolling out the dough to prevent sticking, but don’t over-flour the gnocchi to keep them light.
Batch Cooking: Cook gnocchi in batches to better manage doneness, ensuring each piece is perfectly soft and pillowy.
Experiment with Flavors: Try adding lemon zest or different herbs to the dough for a personalized twist on sweet potato gnocchi.
Substitutions Matter: Don’t hesitate to swap ingredients like ricotta or bacon based on your dietary needs, while still keeping the dish delicious!
Serving Suggestions: Pair with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables to create a well-rounded meal that everyone will love.

Sweet Potato Gnocchi Variations

Customize your sweet potato gnocchi with these simple twists that add your personal flavor and flair!

Dairy-Free: Substitute ricotta with silken tofu for a creamy vegan variation that still holds the dough together nicely.
Bacon-Free: Swap thick-cut bacon for sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and spinach for a hearty vegetarian version brimming with flavor.
Spice Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes to the dough for a warm, spicy kick that dances on the palate.
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like basil or sage into the dough for a fragrant twist that complements the sweetness of the potatoes beautifully.
Sweet Surprise: Incorporate finely grated lemon or orange zest to the dough for a bright, citrusy flavor that enhances the sweetness.
Pumpkin Twist: Replace sweet potatoes with pumpkin puree for a similar texture but a unique, earthier flavor profile.
Nutty Goodness: Stir in a handful of chopped toasted walnuts or pecans into the cooked gnocchi for a delightful crunch and added depth.
Sauce Alternatives: Experiment with a creamy garlic alfredo or a fresh tomato basil sauce instead of maple bacon for a completely new experience!

Sweet Potato Gnocchi Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best sweet potatoes?
Look for sweet potatoes that are firm, smooth, and free from dark spots or blemishes. If you’re opting for the skin, avoid those with wrinkles, as they might be old or drying out. For the sweetest flavor, choose medium-sized sweet potatoes—they should feel heavy for their size!

How should I store leftover sweet potato gnocchi?
If you have cooked gnocchi left over, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. A light drizzle of olive oil helps to prevent them from sticking together. If you want to preserve the fresh taste longer, consider freezing them.

Can I freeze uncooked sweet potato gnocchi?
Absolutely! To freeze uncooked gnocchi, first arrange them in a single layer on a floured baking sheet. Place the sheet in the freezer until the gnocchi are firm (about 1-2 hours). After that, transfer them to an airtight container or a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook them, boil directly from the freezer.

What if my gnocchi dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky to handle, sprinkle in a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until you achieve the right consistency. Be careful not to add too much flour at once, as you want the dough to remain soft and pliable for that perfect pillowy texture!

Are there any dietary considerations with this dish?
Yes, this sweet potato gnocchi can be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour substitute. Additionally, if you want to keep the recipe dairy-free, simply omit the ricotta and the Parmesan cheese! For a vegan version, you can replace the egg with a flaxseed egg—just mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water and let it sit for 5 minutes until it thickens.

Can I use other types of potatoes besides sweet potatoes?
While sweet potatoes provide a unique flavor and texture, you can absolutely experiment with other types of potatoes! Traditional gnocchi is often made with russet or Yukon Gold potatoes. However, keep in mind that the sweetness and flavor will differ—so get creative and find the combination that delights your palate!