Thanksgiving Sage Butter Gnocchi Wraps

This hearty Thanksgiving Sage Butter Gnocchi Wrap transforms holiday flavors into a handheld feast that brings comfort food to a whole new level. The combination of pillowy gnocchi, tender turkey, and vegetables wrapped in a golden tortilla creates a portable celebration of Thanksgiving favorites any time of year.

I created this recipe after finding myself with Thanksgiving leftovers but craving something different than the usual turkey sandwich. My family now requests these wraps year round, especially on chilly autumn evenings when we want those comforting holiday flavors without the fuss.

Ingredients

• Store bought potato gnocchi: saves tremendous time while still delivering that pillowy potato texture we crave
• Leftover turkey breast: provides lean protein and that distinctive holiday flavor profile
• Baby spinach: adds a nutritional boost with its mild flavor that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients
• Butternut squash: brings natural sweetness and a gorgeous orange color that evokes fall
• Cremini mushrooms: contribute earthy umami notes that deepen the overall flavor profile
• Dried cranberries: offer bursts of sweet tartness that cut through the richness
• Fresh sage leaves: are essential for that distinctive Thanksgiving aroma
• Parmesan cheese: adds a salty complexity that ties everything together

Instructions

Prepare the gnocchi:

Cook the gnocchi according to package directions until they float to the surface, typically 2 to 3 minutes. Be careful not to overcook them as they can become gummy. Drain thoroughly and set aside, but avoid rinsing them as the starch helps the sauce adhere better.

Create the sage butter:

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter completely until it begins to foam slightly. Add the chopped sage leaves and minced garlic, allowing them to infuse the butter with their aromatic flavors for 1 to 2 minutes. The butter will begin to take on a nutty fragrance and the sage will become crisp.

Sauté the vegetables:

Add the sliced mushrooms and diced butternut squash to the sage butter mixture. Sauté for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms release their moisture and begin to brown and the squash softens but still maintains its shape. This creates a foundation of deep flavors.

Combine all filling ingredients:

Gently fold in the cooked gnocchi, shredded turkey, baby spinach, and dried cranberries. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the spinach to wilt completely and the turkey to warm through. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remove from heat once everything is well combined.

Prepare the tortillas:

Warm each tortilla briefly in a dry pan or microwave for about 10 seconds until they become soft and pliable. This prevents cracking when you roll them and makes them more malleable for wrapping.

Assemble the wraps:

Place a quarter of the gnocchi mixture in the center of each tortilla, creating a rectangular shape rather than a mound. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt slightly from the residual heat of the filling.

Roll the wraps:

Fold the bottom edge of the tortilla over the filling, then fold in both sides before rolling upward to create a secure wrap. Tuck the sides in tightly as you roll to prevent filling from escaping.

Optional toasting:

For an extra layer of texture and flavor, place the wrapped gnocchi in a dry skillet over medium heat for 1 to 2 minutes per side until golden brown and slightly crispy on the outside. This creates a delightful contrast to the soft filling inside.

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The fresh sage in this recipe is truly the star ingredient. When fried briefly in butter, it transforms from a somewhat astringent herb into a crispy, aromatic delight that infuses the entire dish with that unmistakable holiday essence. My grandmother always kept a sage plant by her kitchen window specifically for Thanksgiving preparations, and that tradition continues in my own home today.

Make-Ahead Options

These wraps can be fully assembled up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Simply wrap each one tightly in aluminum foil or parchment paper. When ready to serve, unwrap and heat in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes or until heated through, or toast in a dry skillet as directed in the original recipe. The flavors actually develop and meld beautifully overnight, making this an excellent prepare ahead option for busy households.

Creative Substitutions

Gnocchi can be swapped for cooked wild rice or farro for a different textural experience. Sweet potatoes work beautifully in place of butternut squash for a similar sweet earthiness. For a vegetarian version, replace turkey with roasted chickpeas tossed in poultry seasoning. If fresh sage is unavailable, use 1 teaspoon dried sage in the butter, though the flavor will be less pronounced. Goat cheese can replace Parmesan for a tangy, creamy alternative that pairs wonderfully with the cranberries.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these wraps alongside a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the filling. A small bowl of cranberry sauce makes an excellent dipping option that enhances the holiday flavors. For a complete Thanksgiving experience in miniature, offer small portions of traditional sides like mashed potatoes or green bean casserole. These wraps also pair beautifully with a glass of Pinot Noir or a crisp apple cider.

The History Behind the Dish

This fusion recipe represents the evolution of Thanksgiving leftovers in American cuisine. While the traditional turkey sandwich has been a post holiday staple since the early 20th century, creative reimaginings like these wraps reflect our modern appreciation for global flavors and convenient formats. The inclusion of gnocchi brings an Italian influence to this distinctly American holiday, showcasing how our culinary traditions continuously evolve through cultural exchange and innovation.

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These wraps are a delightful way to enjoy Thanksgiving flavors in a convenient and delicious format. They are perfect for a quick weeknight meal or for entertaining guests.

Recipe FAQ

→ Can I substitute the turkey?

Yes, leftover chicken or more mushrooms can be used in place of turkey for a different flavor profile.

→ What type of gnocchi works best?

Both store-bought or homemade potato gnocchi deliver a pillowy texture that pairs well with the filling.

→ Can these wraps be made vegetarian?

Omit turkey and add extra mushrooms or roasted vegetables for a satisfying vegetarian version.

→ What kind of tortilla should I use?

Large flour tortillas are recommended to hold the filling securely and allow for easy rolling.

→ How do I keep the wraps crispy?

After assembling, toast the wraps in a dry skillet until golden and crisp on both sides for added texture.

→ How should I serve these wraps?

Serve warm, straight from the skillet, optionally paired with light white wine or sparkling cider.