15+ Gnocchi Recipes to Delight Your Taste Buds

Gnocchi is a versatile and comforting dish that has roots in Italian cuisine. Many people love it for its soft texture and ability to pair well with various sauces and toppings. Making gnocchi at home can be a fun and rewarding experience, allowing you to customize flavors to suit your taste.

Whether you’re looking for traditional recipes or creative variations, there are plenty of options to explore. From classic potato gnocchi to options using different ingredients, this article will guide you through some tasty recipes that you can try in your kitchen.

1) Classic Potato Gnocchi

Classic potato gnocchi is a favorite Italian dish that’s delicious and easy to make. You’ll find it has a comforting texture that pairs well with many sauces.

To start, you’ll need starchy russet potatoes. These help create a light and fluffy dough. Mixing them with a bit of flour and an egg creates the perfect base for your gnocchi.

You’ll cook the potatoes, then mash them to form the dough. Once you roll and cut the dough into small pieces, your gnocchi is ready to cook. Boil them briefly until they float, and then serve with your favorite sauce.

Ingredients

• 1 large russet potato
• A pinch of salt
• 1 egg, beaten
• ½ cup all-purpose flour, plus more as needed

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the potato until tender.
2. Mash the potato in a bowl.
3. Add salt, the egg, and flour to the bowl.
4. Mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll and cut the dough into pieces.
6. Boil in salted water until they float.

2) Ricotta Gnocchi with Pesto

Ricotta gnocchi is a soft and delicious pasta option. It’s light and fluffy, making it perfect for pairing with pesto. The creamy texture of the gnocchi complements the vibrant flavors of the pesto sauce.

To start, you’ll want to cook the gnocchi until they float, which shows they are done. Toss them gently with your favorite pesto for the best flavor. You can use a homemade or store-bought pesto.

This dish is quick to prepare and great for a weeknight dinner. You can also add vegetables or protein to make it heartier.

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh ricotta cheese
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• Salt to taste
• 1 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)

Cooking Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix the ricotta, eggs, salt, and flour.
2. Form the mixture into small balls.
3. Boil water in a pot with salt.
4. Cook gnocchi until they float (about 2-3 minutes).
5. Drain and toss with pesto before serving.

3) Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Sage Butter

Sweet potato gnocchi is a warm and comforting dish that’s perfect for any dinner. The natural sweetness of the potatoes pairs well with the rich flavor of the sage butter sauce. It’s easier to make than you might think.

You only need a few simple ingredients to create this delightful meal. Cooking the sweet potatoes until tender is the first step. Then, mix them with flour, ricotta cheese, and salt to form the dough.

While the gnocchi cooks, prepare the sage butter. Melt butter in a pan and add fresh sage leaves until they turn crispy. Drizzle this over the gnocchi for a delicious finish.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) sweet potatoes
• 1 cup (240g) whole milk ricotta cheese
• 1/4 cup (25g) Parmesan cheese
• 1 1/4 cups (160g) all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Fresh sage leaves

Cooking Instructions

1. Boil sweet potatoes until tender.
2. Peel and mash them in a bowl.
3. Mix mashed sweet potatoes with ricotta, Parmesan, flour, and salt.
4. Form the dough and cut into small pieces.
5. Boil gnocchi until they float.
6. In a pan, melt butter and add sage.
7. Toss cooked gnocchi in sage butter.
8. Serve warm, enjoying every bite.

4) Spinach and Ricotta Gnocchi

Spinach and ricotta gnocchi is a delightful twist on traditional gnocchi. These soft and pillowy dumplings are made with fresh spinach, ricotta cheese, flour, and egg. They’re perfect for a cozy meal.

You can serve them with a simple sauce, like butter and cheese, for a classic taste. Alternatively, try them with a tomato sauce for something more vibrant.

This dish is not only tasty, but it is also quick to prepare, making it a great option for busy nights.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 8 oz. whole milk ricotta
• 1 egg
• 8 oz. cooked spinach, chopped
• Salt to taste
• Extra virgin olive oil

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the spinach and let it cool.
2. Mix ricotta, egg, and salt in a bowl.
3. Add cooled spinach and flour. Combine until smooth.
4. Form into small dumplings.
5. Boil in salted water for about 2-3 minutes until they float.
6. Serve with your favorite sauce.

5) Cauliflower Gnocchi with Marinara

Cauliflower gnocchi is a tasty twist on the classic dish. It’s lighter and perfect for those looking for a healthier option. Pairing it with marinara sauce makes it flavorful and satisfying.

Start by cooking the gnocchi according to the package instructions. Meanwhile, gently heat your favorite marinara sauce in a pan. Mixing in some garlic can add a delightful touch.

Once the gnocchi is cooked, combine it with the marinara sauce. You can add a sprinkle of cheese on top for a delicious finish. This dish is not only simple but also a hit with the family.

Ingredients

• 1 package cauliflower gnocchi
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
• Grated cheese for topping (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the cauliflower gnocchi according to the package instructions.
2. In a pan, heat the marinara sauce over medium heat (about 350°F or 175°C).
3. If using, add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Combine the cooked gnocchi with the marinara sauce.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated cheese if desired.

6) Pumpkin Gnocchi with Parmesan Cream

Pumpkin gnocchi is a delicious twist on traditional gnocchi. It’s soft, flavorful, and perfect for a cozy dinner. The blend of pumpkin and creamy Parmesan sauce makes it a comforting dish.

To make this dish, you will need a few simple ingredients. Start with canned pumpkin, which adds rich flavor and helps the gnocchi stay moist. The Parmesan cream sauce brings everything together with its cheesy goodness.

This meal is perfect for a fall evening or any time you’re craving something warm and tasty.

Ingredients

• 1 cup canned pumpkin
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt to taste
• 1 cup heavy cream

Cooking Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine pumpkin, egg, ricotta, and salt.
2. Gradually add flour until the dough forms.
3. Roll the dough into small pieces and shape them into gnocchi.
4. Boil salted water and cook gnocchi until they float.
5. In a saucepan, heat cream and stir in Parmesan until melted.
6. Toss cooked gnocchi in the sauce and serve hot.

7) Gnocchi with Cherry Tomato Sauce

Gnocchi with cherry tomato sauce is a simple and tasty dish. It combines soft gnocchi with fresh cherry tomatoes that burst in flavor. You can prepare this meal quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

To start, heat olive oil in a pan and add chopped garlic. Then, toss in the cherry tomatoes and cook until they are soft. Season with salt and pepper to bring out the flavors.

Add cooked gnocchi to the pan and mix well. You can top it with fresh basil or cheese if you like.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 pound gnocchi

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add cherry tomatoes and cook until they burst, about 5 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Add cooked gnocchi and stir to combine.
6. Serve hot, optionally topped with basil or cheese.

8) Beetroot Gnocchi with Blue Cheese

Beetroot gnocchi is a colorful twist on the classic dish. The natural sweetness of beets pairs wonderfully with the rich flavor of blue cheese. This dish is not only beautiful but also delicious.

To make the gnocchi, you’ll mash roasted beets and combine them with flour and egg. This creates a vibrant dough that’s easy to work with. Once shaped, you’ll cook them until they float.

For the sauce, melt some butter and add crumbled blue cheese. This creamy sauce adds a great touch to the gnocchi. The combination of flavors will surely impress your friends and family.

Ingredients

• 500 g (about 1 lb) beetroots
• 250 g (about 9 oz) all-purpose flour
• 1 large egg
• 100 g (about 3.5 oz) blue cheese
• 3 tbsp butter
• Salt to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Roast beetroots at 400°F (200°C) until tender.
2. Mash the roasted beets in a bowl.
3. Mix in flour and egg until a dough forms.
4. Roll the dough into ropes and cut into pieces.
5. Boil gnocchi until they float, then drain.
6. In a pan, melt butter and stir in crumbled blue cheese.
7. Add cooked gnocchi to the sauce and toss.

9) Gnocchi alla Sorrentina

Gnocchi alla Sorrentina is a delightful Italian dish perfect for comfort food lovers. It’s made with soft potato gnocchi baked in a rich tomato sauce. The dish is topped with melted cheese, making each bite creamy and delicious.

To prepare this dish, you’ll need fresh ingredients like mozzarella and basil. The combination of flavors offers a taste of Southern Italy right in your kitchen.

This recipe is great for family gatherings or a cozy night in. It’s simple to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450 g) potato gnocchi
• 2 cups (480 ml) tomato sauce
• 8 ounces (225 g) mozzarella cheese, shredded
• Fresh basil leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook the gnocchi according to package directions until they float.
3. Mix the cooked gnocchi with tomato sauce in a baking dish.
4. Top with mozzarella cheese and basil.
5. Bake for about 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

10) Mushroom and Goat Cheese Gnocchi

This creamy mushroom and goat cheese gnocchi is a tasty dish that’s quick and easy to make. You’ll enjoy the rich flavors of mushrooms paired with tangy goat cheese.

Start by cooking gnocchi until it floats in boiling water. While that cooks, sauté mushrooms in olive oil in a pan. Add garlic for extra flavor.

Once the mushrooms are soft, mix in cooked gnocchi and goat cheese. Stir gently until the cheese melts and everything is well combined. You can add fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a pop of freshness.

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450g) gnocchi
• 8 ounces (227g) mushrooms, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 ounces (113g) goat cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Boil water in a pot and cook gnocchi until they float. Drain.
2. In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until soft.
4. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the cooked gnocchi and goat cheese.
6. Stir gently until cheese melts and everything is combined.
7. Season with salt and pepper. Add herbs if you like. Serve warm.

11) Chickpea Gnocchi with Red Pepper Sauce

Chickpea gnocchi is a tasty and healthy twist on traditional gnocchi. It’s easy to make and pairs wonderfully with a rich red pepper sauce.

To start, you’ll need key ingredients like chickpeas, which add protein and fiber. The red pepper sauce brings in a sweet and smoky flavor that complements the gnocchi perfectly.

This dish is great for lunch or dinner. It’s not only satisfying but also colorful on your plate, making it appealing to everyone.

Ingredients

• 500g chickpea gnocchi
• 1 jar roasted red peppers (400-500g)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the chickpea gnocchi according to package instructions.
2. In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
4. Blend roasted peppers into a smooth sauce and add to the pan.
5. Stir in the cooked gnocchi and mix well.
6. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

12) Lemon Ricotta Gnocchi

Lemon ricotta gnocchi is a delightful and light dish. It combines soft, pillowy gnocchi with a bright lemon flavor that enhances every bite.

To make the gnocchi, you’ll mix ricotta cheese, egg yolks, lemon zest, and flour. This creates a smooth dough that is easy to shape and cook. You can finish it with a buttery lemon sauce for added richness.

This dish is perfect for spring or any time you want a fresh and simple meal.

Ingredients

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 egg yolk
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Fresh lemon juice

Cooking Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine ricotta, egg yolk, lemon zest, and salt.
2. Gradually add flour until a soft dough forms.
3. Roll the dough into small pieces and shape them into gnocchi.
4. Boil water and cook the gnocchi until they float, about 2-3 minutes.
5. In a pan, melt butter and add fresh lemon juice.
6. Toss the cooked gnocchi in the lemon sauce and serve warm.

13) Gnocchi with Truffle Oil and Parmesan

This dish brings a rich and luxurious flavor to your table. The creamy truffle oil pairs perfectly with the savory notes of Parmesan cheese. It’s a simple yet elegant meal you can whip up in no time.

To start, you should cook your gnocchi until they float. In a pan, combine truffle oil with sautéed garlic for added flavor. Toss the gnocchi in this mix until they are well coated.

Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan on top before serving. You can also add a few fresh herbs for garnish if you like. Enjoy your delicious gnocchi!

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) gnocchi
• 2 tablespoons truffle oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup (50g) Parmesan cheese, grated
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Boil a pot of salted water.
2. Cook the gnocchi until they float, about 2-3 minutes.
3. In a pan, heat truffle oil and sauté garlic.
4. Add the cooked gnocchi to the pan and toss gently.
5. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan and herbs if desired.

14) Pesto and Sun-dried Tomato Gnocchi

This Pesto and Sun-dried Tomato Gnocchi is both quick and delicious. With only a few ingredients, you can create a meal perfect for busy weeknights. Gnocchi cooks in just a few minutes, and combining it with pesto and sun-dried tomatoes makes it even easier.

Start with store-bought gnocchi for convenience. You’ll love how the creamy pesto and sweet sun-dried tomatoes add flavor and texture. It’s a dish that both adults and kids enjoy.

Ingredients

• 1 pound gnocchi
• 1 cup pesto
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions.
2. Drain and return gnocchi to the pot.
3. Stir in pesto and sun-dried tomatoes.
4. Heat gently until everything is warm.
5. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper. Enjoy!

15) Kale and Walnut Gnocchi

Kale and walnut gnocchi is a delicious way to enjoy this classic dish. The nutty flavor of the walnuts pairs perfectly with the earthy taste of kale.

To start, you’ll want to sauté the kale until soft. This adds great depth to the dish. The walnuts add a nice crunch and healthy fats.

Using store-bought gnocchi saves time. You can pan-fry it until it’s crispy for added texture. Toss everything together with a little garlic for extra flavor.

This recipe comes together quickly, making it a perfect weeknight meal!

Ingredients

• 1 package gnocchi
• 2 cups kale, chopped
• 1 cup walnuts, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions.
2. In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Add kale and cook until wilted.
5. Then, stir in walnuts and season with salt and pepper.
6. Toss the cooked gnocchi into the pan and combine well.
7. Serve warm.