Best Vegan Sweet Potato Gnocchi Recipe for Easy Meals

Sweet potato gnocchi is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dumplings, offering a naturally sweet and earthy flavor combined with a pillowy texture that melts in your mouth. This vegan version is not only comforting but also incredibly easy to make at home with simple, wholesome ingredients.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. Perfect for cozy dinners or impressing guests, these gnocchi pair beautifully with a variety of sauces and toppings.

In this post, I’ll guide you step-by-step through the best vegan sweet potato gnocchi recipe, including tips for perfect texture, handy equipment, and delicious serving suggestions. Ready to turn humble sweet potatoes into a gourmet delight?

Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan sweet potato gnocchi recipe stands out because it combines simplicity with incredible flavor and texture. Unlike traditional gnocchi that rely heavily on egg or cheese, this version uses natural ingredients to bind and create softness without compromising taste.

Sweet potatoes add a subtle sweetness and vibrant color, while a touch of flour and a pinch of salt bring everything together perfectly. Plus, it’s gluten-friendly if you choose the right flour alternatives!

The dough is easy to handle, and the gnocchi cooks quickly, making this a perfect weeknight meal or a special dish for entertaining.

Pair it with your favorite vegan sauce or simply sauté it with olive oil and herbs for a satisfying, wholesome meal.

Ingredients

• 2 large sweet potatoes (about 2 pounds)
• 1 ½ to 2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for GF option)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, for warm flavor)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for sautéing)
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Equipment

• Baking sheet or roasting pan
• Fork or potato masher
• Large mixing bowl
• Bench scraper or knife
• Large pot for boiling
• Slotted spoon
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Fork (for creating gnocchi ridges)

Instructions

1. Roast the sweet potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash the sweet potatoes, prick them a few times with a fork, and place them on a baking sheet. Roast for about 45-60 minutes, or until they are very tender and can be easily pierced with a knife.
2. Prepare the sweet potato flesh: Let the roasted sweet potatoes cool slightly. Then peel off the skins (they should come off easily). Mash the flesh thoroughly with a fork or potato masher until smooth and lump-free. Transfer to a large mixing bowl.
3. Add seasonings and flour: Stir in the salt, nutmeg (if using), and olive oil. Gradually add 1 ½ cups of flour while mixing gently. The dough should come together and be soft but not overly sticky. If necessary, add more flour 1 tablespoon at a time until the dough holds its shape but remains tender.
4. Form the gnocchi dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead gently just a few times to bring it fully together. Divide the dough into 4 equal parts.
5. Shape the gnocchi: Roll each portion into a rope about ¾ inch in diameter. Cut the rope into 1-inch pieces. To create the classic ridges, roll each piece over the back of a fork or use a gnocchi board, pressing gently with your thumb.
6. Cook the gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Drop the gnocchi into the boiling water in batches to avoid overcrowding. Once the gnocchi float to the surface (about 2-3 minutes), use a slotted spoon to remove them and transfer to a plate.
7. Sauté (optional): For extra flavor and texture, heat a little olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the cooked gnocchi and sauté until golden and slightly crispy on the outside, about 3-5 minutes. Season with freshly ground black pepper.

Tips & Variations

“Make sure your sweet potatoes are well roasted and fully dry before mixing the dough. Excess moisture can make the dough sticky and difficult to handle.”

• Flour choice: Use a gluten-free flour blend if you want to make this recipe gluten-free. Tapioca starch or arrowroot powder can help improve chewiness.
• Storage: Uncooked gnocchi can be frozen on a parchment-lined tray and transferred to a freezer bag once firm. Cook from frozen directly in boiling water.
• Herbs & spices: Add a pinch of garlic powder or fresh chopped sage into the dough for extra flavor.
• Sauces: This gnocchi pairs beautifully with vegan pesto, a rich tomato sauce, or a creamy cashew-based sauce like the Classico Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce Recipe.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

These vegan sweet potato gnocchi shine when paired with rich, flavorful sauces. Consider tossing them in a garlicky sage butter made with vegan margarine and fresh sage leaves or a vibrant tomato sauce for a comforting meal.

For a fresh twist, drizzle with browned vegan butter and toasted walnuts or pecans, and sprinkle with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy. You can also serve gnocchi alongside a crisp green salad or steamed seasonal veggies for a complete meal.

Don’t forget to check out my Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream Recipe as a perfect dessert to finish off your Italian-inspired dinner!

Conclusion

Making vegan sweet potato gnocchi at home is easier than you might think, and the results are truly rewarding. This recipe offers a delicious, plant-based alternative to traditional gnocchi, bursting with natural sweetness and a tender texture that everyone will love.

With just a handful of simple ingredients and a little patience, you can create a dish that’s both nourishing and indulgent.

Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe is versatile and adaptable to your tastes. Save it for your next cozy dinner or special occasion, and explore new ways to enjoy gnocchi by experimenting with sauces and toppings.

For more comforting recipes to complement your meal, try the Cheese Penny Recipe or the Chicken Shrimp And Broccoli Recipes (vegan version options available) for inspiration.

Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite of your homemade vegan sweet potato gnocchi!

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