Are you ready to master the art of making fluffy gnocchi? These Italian dumplings are a staple in many cuisines, and when done right, can be incredibly delicious. With so many variations out there, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the options. That’s why we’ve put together this list of 20 fluffy gnocchi recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings.
From classic potato gnocchi with sage butter to sweet potato gnocchi with gorgonzola cream, and from sausage-stuffed gnocchi to lemon butter gnocchi with asparagus – there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, these recipes are easy to master and will have you hooked from the very first bite.
In this article, we’ll dive into each of our 20 fluffy gnocchi recipes, highlighting the key ingredients, cooking methods, and tips for making them shine. So grab your apron, get ready to roll up your sleeves, and let’s get started on this culinary adventure!
Classic Potato Gnocchi with Sage Butter
Classic Potato Gnocchi with Sage Butter Recipe
Satisfy your cravings with this comforting Italian dish that combines pillowy gnocchi and fragrant sage butter. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or as an impressive dinner party starter.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg
– Salt to taste
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4-6 fresh sage leaves
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Boil the potatoes until tender. Drain and let cool.
2. Mash the cooled potatoes in a bowl. Add flour, egg, and salt; mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5 minutes to develop texture.
4. Roll out the dough into long ropes. Cut into 1-inch pieces.
5. Cook the gnocchi in boiling water until they float (about 3-4 minutes). Drain.
6. In a pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add sage leaves and cook until crispy.
7. Toss cooked gnocchi with sage butter and top with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: About 30-40 minutes
Pumpkin Gnocchi with Brown Butter Sauce
This seasonal dish combines the warmth of pumpkin with the richness of brown butter, creating a perfect fall comfort food.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup cooked, mashed pumpkin
– 1 large egg
– Brown butter sauce (see below)
Gnocchi:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine flours, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the mashed pumpkin and mix until just combined.
3. Beat in the egg until a dough forms.
4. Knead for 5 minutes until smooth.
5. Divide into 4 portions and roll each into a log shape.
6. Cut into 1-inch pieces.
Brown Butter Sauce:
– 2 tablespoons (1/4 stick) unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
1. Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the butter turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma.
3. Stir in the brown sugar until dissolved.
Cooking:
– Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
– Cook gnocchi for 3-5 minutes or until they float.
– Drain and serve with brown butter sauce.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Spinach and Ricotta Gnocchi
Savor the tender and creamy goodness of homemade spinach and ricotta gnocchi, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion. This recipe yields a deliciously light and fluffy dish that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup semolina flour
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh spinach
– Salt, to taste
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine flours, egg, and salt.
3. Add ricotta cheese and chopped spinach; mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and pliable.
5. Divide the dough into 4 portions; roll each portion into a long rope.
6. Cut the ropes into 1-inch pieces to form gnocchi.
7. Cook gnocchi in boiling water for 3-5 minutes or until they float to the surface.
8. Serve with your favorite sauce and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Gorgonzola Cream
Savor the warm, comforting flavors of Italy with this delightful sweet potato gnocchi dish paired with a rich and creamy gorgonzola sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup semolina flour
– 1 egg
– Salt, to taste
– Gorgonzola cream (see below for recipe)
Gorgonzola Cream:
– 8 oz heavy cream
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 3 tbsp crumbled gorgonzola cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake sweet potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until soft.
3. Mash cooked sweet potatoes with flour, semolina flour, egg, and salt.
4. Knead dough on a floured surface until smooth.
5. Roll out dough to desired thickness.
6. Cook gnocchi in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, or until they float.
7. Serve warm with Gorgonzola Cream sauce.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes (sweet potatoes) + 10-15 minutes (gnocchi)
Gnocchi alla Sorrentina with Tomato and Mozzarella
In the picturesque town of Sorrento, Italy, a classic dish is born – Gnocchi alla Sorrentina. This recipe combines tender gnocchi pillows with the freshness of tomatoes and the creaminess of mozzarella.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound gnocchi (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions or until they float to the surface (about 3-5 minutes). Reserve.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
3. Arrange the cooked gnocchi on a serving plate or individual plates. Top with the tomato mixture and sliced mozzarella cheese.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (includes cooking time for gnocchi)
One-Pan Gnocchi with Sausage and Peppers
A hearty and flavorful one-pan meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. This recipe combines tender gnocchi, spicy sausage, and sweet bell peppers in a rich tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Italian-style sausage
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 8 ounces gnocchi
– 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 until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the bell peppers; cook until tender.
5. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth.
6. Bring to a simmer, then add the gnocchi.
7. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the gnocchi are cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Gnocchi Bake
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious garlic parmesan gnocchi bake! With minimal effort, you’ll be rewarded with a satisfying comfort food dish perfect for a cozy night in or a family dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of gnocchi (about 12 oz)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, combine olive oil, garlic, and breadcrumbs. Cook over medium heat until golden brown, stirring frequently.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine Parmesan cheese and heavy cream. Heat over low heat, whisking constantly, until smooth and creamy.
5. Combine cooked gnocchi with the garlic-breadcrumb mixture and Parmesan cream sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gnocchi with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes
Gnocchi with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes Recipe
Summary: This classic Italian dish combines the tender, pillowy gnocchi with a vibrant pesto sauce and sweet cherry tomatoes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of fresh gnocchi (about 12 oz)
– 1/4 cup basil pesto
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (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 heat. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they release their juices and start to caramelize.
3. Stir in the basil pesto and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Once the gnocchi are cooked, drain them and add them to the pan with the pesto sauce. Toss gently to combine.
5. Serve the gnocchi hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Gnocchi
This comforting pasta dish combines tender gnocchi with a rich and creamy mushroom sauce, perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound store-bought or homemade gnocchi
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions or recipe. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start browning, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer and let cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens.
5. Combine cooked gnocchi with the mushroom sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gnocchi Carbonara with Pancetta
Gnocchi Carbonara with Pancetta: A Creamy Italian Classic
This recipe combines the pillowy softness of homemade gnocchi with the richness of pancetta and a hint of cream, making it an unforgettable dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound potatoes, peeled and chopped into small pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg
– Salt, to taste
– 6 oz pancetta, diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cook gnocchi according to package instructions or make homemade using potatoes and flour.
2. In a large skillet, cook pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add butter and let melt. Pour in eggs and whisk until smooth. Add heavy cream and stir.
4. Add cooked gnocchi to the egg mixture and toss to combine.
5. Stir in pancetta and season with salt to taste.
6. Serve immediately, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Butter Gnocchi with Asparagus
Lemon Butter Gnocchi with Asparagus Recipe
A bright and flavorful spring-inspired dish that combines the comforting warmth of gnocchi with the freshness of lemon and asparagus.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound homemade or store-bought gnocchi
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions or until they float to the surface.
2. While the gnocchi cooks, melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the asparagus to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes, until tender but still crisp.
4. Remove the gnocchi from the pot with a slotted spoon and add them to the skillet with the asparagus. Toss to combine.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice and remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Pour the mixture over the gnocchi and asparagus, tossing to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Gnocchi Mac and Cheese
Satisfy your comfort food cravings with this rich and satisfying dish that combines the pillowy softness of gnocchi with the ultimate macaroni cheese experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound gnocchi
– 8 oz macaroni
– 4 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 2 cups grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Cook macaroni al dente, then drain and set aside with the gnocchi.
4. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour, paprika, and garlic powder; cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add cheddar and mozzarella cheese, whisking until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked gnocchi and macaroni with the cheesy sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (if desired).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
Baked Gnocchi with Spinach and Ricotta
A comforting twist on traditional gnocchi, this recipe combines the tender potato dumplings with wilted spinach and a creamy ricotta cheese sauce. Perfect for a cozy evening in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package gnocchi
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
4. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange cooked gnocchi in an even layer. Top with wilted spinach mixture and creamy ricotta sauce.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gnocchi with Roasted Butternut Squash
This recipe combines the simplicity of homemade gnocchi with the warm, comforting flavors of roasted butternut squash. Perfect for a cozy fall evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 1 package of all-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups)
– 1/4 cup semolina
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and roast for 45 minutes, or until tender.
2. While the squash is roasting, combine flour, semolina, salt, and pepper on a work surface. Make a well in the center and add the egg.
3. Mix the dough using your hands until it comes together in a ball. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, then cut into 1-inch pieces (gnocchi).
5. Cook gnocchi in boiling salted water for 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface. Drain and serve with roasted squash, brown butter, and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Gnocchi Alfredo with Broccoli
A classic comfort food dish gets a nutritious twist with the addition of steamed broccoli. This recipe combines tender gnocchi, rich Alfredo sauce, and crisp broccoli for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen gnocchi
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups broccoli florets
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions or until they float to the surface. Reserve.
2. In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Pour in heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 5 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Steam broccoli florets until tender, about 3-5 minutes.
6. Combine cooked gnocchi, Alfredo sauce, and steamed broccoli in a serving dish. Sprinkle with chopped parsley, if desired.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caprese Gnocchi with Fresh Basil
Elevate your pasta game with this vibrant and flavorful Caprese-inspired gnocchi dish, featuring fresh basil and creamy mozzarella. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of store-bought or homemade gnocchi
– 2 cups of cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup of extra-virgin olive oil
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the gnocchi according to package instructions.
2. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
3. Arrange the cooked gnocchi on a serving plate or individual plates.
4. Top each gnocchi with a slice of mozzarella cheese, a spoonful of cherry tomatoes, and some chopped fresh basil leaves.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Gnocchi with Shrimp and Garlic Butter
Gnocchi with Shrimp and Garlic Butter Recipe
This Italian-inspired dish combines soft gnocchi pillows with succulent shrimp, infused with the rich flavor of garlic butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 package gnocchi (homemade or store-bought)
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions (usually 3-5 minutes). Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
2. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Add reserved gnocchi cooking water to the skillet and stir to combine with garlic butter sauce.
5. Serve warm gnocchi with sautéed shrimp and a sprinkle of parsley (if desired).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Gnocchi Primavera with Spring Vegetables
Celebrate the arrival of spring with this vibrant and flavorful dish, combining soft gnocchi with a medley of fresh vegetables. This recipe showcases the beauty of seasonal ingredients, perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of potato gnocchi
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed spring vegetables (such as asparagus, bell peppers, zucchini, and snap peas)
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
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-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes or until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the mixed spring vegetables and cook for 5-7 minutes or until tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for an additional minute.
6. Combine the cooked gnocchi with the vegetable mixture. Stir in lemon juice.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gnocchi with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
In this recipe, we bring together the tender goodness of gnocchi with the rich flavor of sun-dried tomatoes and a creamy sauce. The result is a dish that’s both familiar and excitingly new.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound gnocchi
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 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, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let sauce thicken slightly, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Toss cooked gnocchi with sun-dried tomato cream sauce and serve hot. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quick Gnocchi Stir-Fry with Veggies
Get a nutritious and satisfying meal on the table in no time with this easy stir-fry recipe. With store-bought gnocchi and your favorite vegetables, you’ll have a delicious and healthy dinner ready in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of quick-cooking gnocchi
– 2 cups mixed colorful vegetables (such as bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: soy sauce or your favorite stir-fry sauce
Instructions:
1. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until they start to soften, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet and stir-fry everything together.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and your favorite sauce (if using).
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the world of gnocchi! In this article, we present 20 mouthwatering recipes that will take your taste buds on a thrilling ride. From classic potato gnocchi with sage butter to sweet potato gnocchi with gorgonzola cream, and from one-pan sausage and pepper gnocchi to creamy mushroom gnocchi, our collection has something for everyone. Whether you’re a pasta aficionado or just looking for new flavors to try, these recipes are sure to become your new go-to’s. Dive in and start cooking!
