Get ready to indulge in a world of flavor with our collection of 20 delicious gnocchi recipes! These soft and pillowy Italian dumplings are a blank canvas just waiting for your favorite sauces, cheeses, and seasonings. From classic pairings like garlic parmesan and tomato basil to creamy baked dishes and hearty one-pot meals, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, these easy-to-make recipes will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen.
In this article, we’ll take you on a gastronomic journey through the world of gnocchi, sharing our top 20 favorite recipes that are sure to become new family favorites. From comforting classics to innovative twists, each dish is carefully crafted to showcase the versatility and deliciousness of these beloved Italian dumplings. So sit back, relax, and get ready to pin, save, and cook your way through this mouthwatering menu!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Gnocchi
This creamy pasta dish is a comforting twist on traditional gnocchi. With the combination of soft, pillowy gnocchi, rich garlic butter sauce, and melted parmesan cheese, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 package store-bought or homemade gnocchi
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 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. 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. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine with the garlic butter. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it reduce slightly.
4. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet and toss to coat with the creamy sauce.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Ricotta Gnocchi Bake
This comforting casserole is a twist on traditional gnocchi, featuring spinach and ricotta cheese in a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of fresh spinach gnocchi
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook spinach gnocchi according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, combine marinara sauce and cooked gnocchi. Stir until coated.
4. In a separate bowl, mix ricotta cheese with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked gnocchi mixture with ricotta cheese mixture in a baking dish.
6. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Brown Butter Sage Gnocchi
Savor the rich flavors of fall with this comforting gnocchi recipe, featuring the earthy sweetness of sage and the nutty depth of brown butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked mashed potato
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp salt
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 sprigs fresh sage, chopped
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine mashed potato, flour, egg, and salt.
3. Mix until a dough forms, then knead for 5 minutes.
4. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, about 1/2 inch thick.
5. Cut the rope into 1-inch pieces to form gnocchi.
6. In a skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add chopped sage and cook for 1 minute.
7. Add the remaining 1 tbsp butter and let it brown, stirring occasionally (about 5-7 minutes).
8. Cook the gnocchi in boiling salted water for 3-4 minutes or until they float to the surface.
9. Drain and serve with the brown butter sage sauce.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Tomato Basil Gnocchi Soup
Savor the flavors of Italy with this comforting and creamy soup featuring homemade gnocchi, fresh tomatoes, and fragrant basil. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound gnocchi (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions or recipe. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
4. Stir in cooked gnocchi, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
5. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pan Gnocchi with Sausage and Peppers
This hearty one-pan recipe combines the comfort of gnocchi, spicy sausage, and sweet bell peppers for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb potato gnocchi
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sausage; cook, breaking up with spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add peppers, onion, and garlic; cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender, about 8-10 minutes.
4. Add cooked gnocchi to the skillet; stir to combine with sausage and vegetables.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and oregano.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto Gnocchi with Cherry Tomatoes
This recipe combines the creamy richness of pesto with the tender simplicity of gnocchi, all wrapped up in a flavorful package with sweet cherry tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of fresh gnocchi (about 12-15 pieces)
– 1/2 cup of freshly made pesto
– 1 pint of cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 tablespoon of 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 (usually 3-5 minutes). Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they release their juices and start to caramelize.
3. Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet with the cherry tomatoes. Toss gently to combine, adding some reserved pasta cooking water if needed to achieve a creamy consistency.
4. Stir in the freshly made pesto until well combined with the gnocchi and cherry tomatoes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
6. Serve immediately, enjoying the harmonious balance of flavors and textures.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Baked Gnocchi Casserole
Transform your pasta game with this creamy, cheesy, and utterly comforting casserole. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of gnocchi (12 oz)
– 2 cups of marinara sauce
– 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, combine the marinara sauce and olive oil. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked gnocchi, marinara sauce mixture, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with additional mozzarella cheese if desired.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Butter Gnocchi with Asparagus
Brighten up your pasta night with this vibrant and flavorful dish, combining the simplicity of gnocchi with the brightness of lemon butter and the crunch of asparagus.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh gnocchi
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 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 until they float to the surface.
2. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in the lemon zest and juice.
4. Meanwhile, steam the asparagus until tender, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine the cooked gnocchi, lemon butter sauce, and asparagus in a large serving bowl.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gnocchi with Mushroom Cream Sauce
Treat your taste buds to a rich and satisfying dish with this easy-to-make gnocchi recipe, paired with a savory mushroom cream sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of store-bought or homemade gnocchi
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 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. 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. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine. Bring mixture to a simmer and let reduce slightly, 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked gnocchi with the mushroom cream sauce. Toss gently to coat.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caprese Gnocchi Skillet
A twist on the classic Caprese salad, this skillet dish combines soft gnocchi with juicy tomatoes and creamy mozzarella for a comforting and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of gnocchi
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°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 garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Add diced tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
5. Add cooked gnocchi to the skillet and stir to combine with tomatoes.
6. Top with sliced mozzarella cheese and place in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp and Gnocchi
This decadent dish combines succulent shrimp with tender gnocchi, smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup gnocchi (homemade or store-bought)
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 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 or homemade recipe. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Add shrimp and cook until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
6. Reduce heat to low and add remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Stir in white wine (if using) and simmer for 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
7. Add cooked gnocchi and toss with garlic butter sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve shrimp on top of gnocchi, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gnocchi Alfredo with Broccoli
A classic Italian comfort dish gets a nutritious boost from the addition of steamed broccoli, making this recipe perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) package gnocchi
– 2 tablespoons unsalted 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 until they float to the surface. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, 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 to taste.
5. Add steamed broccoli to the skillet and toss to combine.
6. Combine cooked gnocchi, cream sauce, and reserved pasta water (if needed). Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Gnocchi
Experience the warmth of Italy with these tender gnocchi infused with sun-dried tomatoes and wilted spinach.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup semolina flour
– 1 egg
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine mashed potatoes, all-purpose flour, semolina flour, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until a dough forms.
2. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until smooth.
3. Divide the dough into 4 equal parts. Roll out each part into a long rope.
4. Cut the rope into 1-inch pieces to form gnocchi.
5. Cook gnocchi in boiling salted water for 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
6. In a skillet, sauté sun-dried tomatoes and spinach with a pinch of salt. Add cooked gnocchi and toss to combine.
7. Serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese (optional).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Gnocchi with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
This recipe combines tender gnocchi with a vibrant roasted red pepper sauce, perfect for a cozy and flavorful dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound potato gnocchi
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast the red bell peppers by placing them on a baking sheet, drizzling with olive oil, and sprinkling with salt. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until charred.
3. Remove the peppers from the oven and let cool. Peel off the skin, then chop into pieces.
4. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. In a blender or food processor, combine the roasted red peppers, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Blend until smooth.
6. Combine the blended sauce with cooked gnocchi. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Quick Gnocchi Carbonara
A creamy, rich, and satisfying pasta dish that can be prepared in no time! This recipe combines the comfort of gnocchi with the classic Italian flavors of carbonara.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked gnocchi
– 2 large eggs
– 4 oz pancetta or bacon, diced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the pancetta or bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Crack in the eggs and whisk together with a fork. Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until combined.
4. Add the cooked gnocchi to the egg mixture and toss until well coated.
5. Add the cooked pancetta or bacon back into the skillet and toss everything together until heated through.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Gnocchi Primavera with Spring Vegetables
Celebrate the flavors of spring with this vibrant and flavorful gnocchi primavera recipe, featuring a colorful medley of fresh vegetables. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound store-bought or homemade gnocchi
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed spring vegetables (such as peas, carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini)
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 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. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the mixed spring vegetables to the skillet; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until tender.
4. Stir in the vegetable broth and cooked gnocchi. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Gnocchi Mac and Cheese
A comforting, creamy twist on a classic macaroni and cheese recipe, featuring tender gnocchi instead of pasta. This dish is perfect for a cozy night in or as a satisfying side.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound gnocchi
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
- Pour in milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened.
- Add 3/4 cup cheddar cheese and stir until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked gnocchi, cheese sauce, and remaining 1/4 cup cheddar cheese. Mix well.
- Transfer to a baking dish and top with Parmesan cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Gnocchi with Zucchini and Corn
This light and refreshing summer recipe combines the comforting warmth of gnocchi with the sweetness of zucchini and corn. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 package store-bought or homemade gnocchi
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 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-high heat. Add the zucchini slices and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Add the corn kernels to the skillet and stir to combine with the zucchini. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Once the gnocchi are cooked, drain them and add to the skillet with the zucchini and corn. Toss everything together until well combined.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Gnocchi cooking time: 3-5 minutes
– Zucchini and corn preparation: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Arrabbiata Gnocchi
A classic Italian dish with a spicy kick, these gnocchi are infused with the bold flavors of arrabbiata sauce. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup semolina flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Arrabbiata sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
– Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flours, salt, and baking powder.
3. Make a well in the center and add the egg and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Divide into 4 portions and roll out each portion into a long rope.
6. Cut into 1-inch pieces to form gnocchi.
7. Cook gnocchi in boiling salted water for 3-5 minutes, or until they float.
8. Toss with arrabbiata sauce and top with Parmesan cheese and parsley.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Gnocchi with Burst Cherry Tomatoes and Basil
This recipe combines the classic Italian dish of gnocchi with a pop of color and flavor from burst cherry tomatoes and fragrant basil. A perfect summer evening treat!
Ingredients:
– 1 package fresh gnocchi
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 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, about 3-5 minutes or until they float to the surface.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, until they burst and release their juices.
4. Stir in the chopped basil leaves.
5. Toss the cooked gnocchi with the tomato-basil mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of flavors with these 20 delicious gnocchi recipes! From classic dishes like Creamy Garlic Parmesan Gnocchi and Pesto Gnocchi with Cherry Tomatoes, to creative twists like Spinach and Ricotta Gnocchi Bake and Caprese Gnocchi Skillet, there’s something for every taste bud. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food or a quick weeknight meal, these easy-to-make recipes will satisfy your cravings. Explore the many ways you can enjoy gnocchi, from soups to casseroles, and discover new favorites!
