Ah, gnocchi – those soft, pillowy little pillows of comfort that can turn any meal into a warm and cozy affair. And when you’re in the mood for something truly satisfying and indulgent, it’s hard to beat a plate of perfectly cooked gnocchi smothered in a rich, creamy sauce or topped with a crispy, savory crust.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, exploring 20 different and delicious ways to make fluffy gnocchi that will become new family favorites. From classic combinations like potato and sage, to more adventurous pairings like sweet potato and gorgonzola, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings for something comforting and satisfying.
Classic Potato Gnocchi with Sage Butter
This recipe yields a tender and flavorful potato gnocchi dish, served with a rich sage butter that complements the natural sweetness of the potatoes. With just a few ingredients and minimal cooking time, this dish is perfect for a cozy dinner party or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cooked through
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg
– Salt, to taste
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mash the cooked potatoes in a large bowl until smooth.
3. Mix in flour and egg until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and pliable.
5. Cut into small pieces and roll each piece into a ball.
6. Cook the gnocchi in boiling salted water for 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
7. While the gnocchi cook, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped sage leaves and cook until fragrant.
8. Serve cooked gnocchi with warm sage butter spooned over top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Spinach and Ricotta Gnocchi
A creamy and comforting Italian-inspired dish that combines the richness of ricotta cheese with the nutty flavor of spinach, all wrapped up in soft and pillowy gnocchi.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked spinach
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine spinach, ricotta cheese, and a pinch of salt. Mix until well combined.
2. Add the flour, egg, and olive oil to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces and roll each piece into a long rope.
5. Cut the rope into 1-inch pieces to form the gnocchi.
6. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi for 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
7. Serve with your favorite creamy sauce and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pumpkin Gnocchi with Brown Butter and Sage
Celebrate the flavors of fall with this comforting and savory dish, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion. The sweetness of roasted pumpkin pairs beautifully with the nutty flavor of brown butter and the earthy hint of sage.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked, mashed pumpkin
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup semolina flour
– 1 egg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– Fresh sage leaves, chopped (about 2 tablespoons)
– Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Combine pumpkin, flour, semolina flour, egg, and salt in a bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until smooth.
4. Roll out the dough into long ropes, about 1/2 inch thick.
5. Cut into 1-inch pieces to form gnocchi.
6. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and cook gnocchi for 3-5 minutes or until they float to the surface.
7. In a pan, melt butter over medium heat until brown and fragrant (about 2-3 minutes).
8. Add chopped sage leaves and cook for an additional minute.
9. Serve cooked gnocchi with brown butter and sage sauce, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Gorgonzola Sauce
Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Gorgonzola Sauce Recipe
Experience the creamy, cheesy goodness of Italy with this unique and delicious twist on traditional gnocchi.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup semolina flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 egg
– Gorgonzola sauce (recipe below)
Gnocchi Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pierce sweet potatoes multiple times with a fork and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. Let cool, then peel and mash in a large bowl.
4. Mix in flour, semolina flour, and salt until a dough forms.
5. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 2-3 minutes.
6. Divide into 4 equal pieces and roll each piece into a long rope.
7. Cut into 1-inch (2.5 cm) pieces to form gnocchi.
Gorgonzola Sauce:
– 8 oz Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine Gorgonzola cheese, heavy cream, and butter.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the cheese is melted and smooth.
3. Season with salt and pepper.
Cooking Time:
– Sweet potatoes: 45-50 minutes
– Gnocchi: Boil for 3-5 minutes or pan-fry for 2-3 minutes
– Gorgonzola sauce: Cook for 5-7 minutes
Pesto Gnocchi with Cherry Tomatoes
Savor the flavors of Italy with this vibrant and flavorful dish that combines soft gnocchi, rich pesto sauce, and juicy cherry tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 package gnocchi
– 1/2 cup freshly made or store-bought pesto
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the surface.
2. In a separate pan, heat the pesto over medium heat.
3. Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the pesto and cook for 2-3 minutes or until they release their juices and start to soften.
4. Drain the cooked gnocchi and add them to the pan with the pesto and cherry tomatoes. Toss gently to combine.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Gnocchi with Mozzarella and Marinara
Baked Gnocchi with Mozzarella and Marinara: A Twist on a Classic Comfort Food
This recipe brings together the creamy richness of mozzarella, the tanginess of marinara sauce, and the softness of baked gnocchi for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of potato gnocchi
– 2 cups of marinara sauce
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions and set aside.
3. In a baking dish, spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom.
4. Arrange half of the cooked gnocchi on top of the sauce.
5. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella slices and Parmesan cheese.
6. Repeat the layers: marinara sauce, gnocchi, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with salt to taste.
9. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gnocchi alla Sorrentina (Tomato and Basil)
Savor the flavors of the Amalfi Coast with this traditional recipe, featuring soft gnocchi smothered in a rich tomato and basil sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound potato gnocchi
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the surface.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes and cook for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Stir in the chopped basil leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve the gnocchi with the tomato and basil sauce, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Brown Butter and Parmesan Gnocchi
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and comforting dish, featuring pillowy gnocchi smothered in a nutty brown butter sauce infused with the savory flavors of Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 package store-bought or homemade potato gnocchi
– 4 tablespoons (55g) unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the gnocchi according to package instructions or until they float to the surface.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk to combine, cooking for 1-2 minutes or until lightly toasted.
3. Gradually add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, whisking constantly, until the mixture turns into a nutty brown color.
4. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt to taste.
5. Toss cooked gnocchi with the brown butter sauce and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Gnocchi with Mushroom Cream Sauce
A rich and satisfying Italian-inspired dish that combines tender gnocchi with a decadent mushroom cream sauce, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of store-bought or homemade gnocchi
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked gnocchi with mushroom cream sauce. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Gnocchi Carbonara with Pancetta
This recipe combines the tender goodness of gnocchi with the rich flavors of pancetta and eggs, creating a creamy, indulgent dish that’s sure to satisfy.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) potato gnocchi
– 6 slices of pancetta, diced
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup (250ml) heavy cream
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the gnocchi according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook the pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs and heavy cream. Season with salt and black pepper.
4. Add the cooked gnocchi to the egg mixture and toss until coated.
5. Add the reserved pasta water to the skillet with the pancetta and stir to combine.
6. Combine the cooked gnocchi mixture and pancetta mixture, tossing until well combined.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Garlic Gnocchi with Shrimp
A vibrant and flavorful twist on traditional gnocchi, this dish combines the brightness of lemon zest with the richness of garlic butter and succulent shrimp.
Ingredients:
– 1 package gnocchi (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, zested
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Stir in lemon zest and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Toss cooked gnocchi with shrimp mixture and serve immediately. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Gnocchi cooking time: 3-4 minutes
– Shrimp cooking time: 6-8 minutes total
– Total recipe time: 15-20 minutes
Gnocchi with Roasted Butternut Squash
Enjoy a comforting and flavorful fall-inspired pasta dish by combining soft gnocchi with roasted butternut squash, garlic, and sage. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or as a side dish for your next family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 12 oz potato gnocchi
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh sage leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the butternut squash for 45-50 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add cooked gnocchi, roasted squash, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Toss everything together.
6. Garnish with chopped sage leaves if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Roasting butternut squash: 45-50 minutes
– Cooking gnocchi: 3-4 minutes
– Total cooking time: approximately 55-60 minutes
Gnocchi and Sausage Skillet
A hearty one-pot meal that combines tender gnocchi with juicy sausage and crispy vegetables, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium bell pepper, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup cooked gnocchi
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook, breaking apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes and cooked gnocchi. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gnocchi Mac and Cheese
A comforting twist on the classic macaroni and cheese, this recipe combines tender gnocchi with a rich and creamy bechamel sauce for a satisfying and filling meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound gnocchi
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Combine cooked gnocchi with the cheesy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer mac and cheese to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Gnocchi with Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto
Experience the warmth of Italy with this simple yet flavorful recipe, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package gnocchi (about 12 oz)
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil and drained
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the surface.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese. Blend until smooth.
3. Drain cooked gnocchi and add them to the pesto sauce. Toss gently to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Gnocchi in Creamy Tomato Basil Sauce
Treat your taste buds to a comforting Italian classic with this simple recipe. Soft gnocchi are tossed in a rich and creamy tomato basil sauce, perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound store-bought or homemade gnocchi
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions or until they float. Reserve.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer sauce for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Add cooked gnocchi to the sauce and toss to coat.
7. Stir in chopped basil and serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gnocchi with Garlic Butter and Spinach
A classic Italian dish gets a flavorful twist with the addition of garlic butter and wilted spinach. This simple recipe yields a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup semolina flour
– 1 egg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine flours, egg, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Divide the dough into 4 equal parts. Roll each part into a long rope.
4. Cut the ropes into 1-inch pieces. You should have around 20-25 gnocchi.
5. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi for 2-3 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
6. While the gnocchi cook, melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
7. Add the fresh spinach leaves to the skillet and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve the cooked gnocchi with the garlic butter spinach sauce spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gnocchi with Burst Cherry Tomatoes and Basil
This recipe combines the softness of gnocchi with the sweetness of burst cherry tomatoes and the freshness of basil, creating a simple yet flavorful dish perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of gnocchi
– 2 cups of cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup of fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the surface.
2. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the cherry tomatoes to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they burst open.
4. Drain the cooked gnocchi and add them to the tomato pan. Toss gently to combine.
5. Stir in chopped basil leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Gnocchi with Browned Butter and Walnuts
Elevate your pasta game with this simple yet elegant recipe that combines pillowy gnocchi, nutty walnuts, and rich browned butter. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of store-bought or homemade gnocchi
– 4 tablespoons (55g) unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup (60g) chopped walnuts
– Salt to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the gnocchi according to package instructions or until they float to the surface.
2. In a small saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the butter turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped walnuts. Season with salt to taste.
4. Drain the cooked gnocchi and add them to the browned butter mixture. Toss gently to combine.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Gnocchi with Roasted Garlic Alfredo
Transform your pasta game with this rich and flavorful dish featuring roasted garlic and homemade gnocchi tossed in a decadent Alfredo sauce. This recipe is sure to become a new favorite!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup semolina
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 3 cloves roasted garlic (see note), minced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the gnocchi dough and cut into small pieces.
2. Roast garlic for 30 minutes, or until tender. Let cool, then mince.
3. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions.
4. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese, roasted garlic, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens.
6. Toss cooked gnocchi with Alfredo sauce, garnishing with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Gnocchi: 3-5 minutes
– Roasted garlic: 30 minutes
– Alfredo sauce: 10 minutes
Summary
Get ready for a comfort food bonanza! This collection of 20 fluffy gnocchi recipes offers a variety of delicious and satisfying meals. From classic potato gnocchi with sage butter to sweet potato gnocchi with gorgonzola sauce, and from creamy spinach and ricotta gnocchi to baked gnocchi with mozzarella and marinara, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting pasta dish or a flavorful main course, these recipes are sure to hit the spot.