gnocchi recipe

Gnocchi Recipe

This gnocchi recipe is a classic Italian comfort dish made with simple ingredients and traditional techniques. Soft, pillowy dumplings are prepared from potatoes, flour, and egg, then cooked briefly until tender and served with your favorite sauce. Whether you are looking for a potato gnocchi recipe from scratch, an easy gnocchi recipe for beginners, or ideas for creamy gnocchi recipe variations, this homemade version delivers authentic flavor and texture. Gnocchi can be paired with tomato sauce, pesto, butter and sage, or even a creamy chicken gnocchi recipe for a satisfying meal.

gnocchi recipe sauce
gnocchi recipe sauce

Ingredients

1 pound potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet recommended)
1 cup all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon salt
1 medium egg, room temperature

For the Tomato Sauce (Optional)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1–2 cloves garlic, chopped
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon oregano
5 basil leaves, chopped or 1 teaspoon dried basil
2 dashes hot pepper flakes (optional)
1 can pelati tomatoes with sauce (about 1½ to 2 cups)
½ cup water

Directions

Boil the unpeeled potatoes in a large pot until fork-tender. Allow them to cool slightly, then peel and pass through a potato ricer or mash until smooth. On a clean work surface, mix flour and salt, then form a well in the center. Add the mashed potatoes and egg, mixing gently with your hands until a soft dough forms. The dough should be smooth and slightly soft but not sticky.

Divide the dough into small portions and roll each piece into long ropes about ¾ inch thick. Cut into small pieces and lightly press each piece against a fork to create ridges. Dust lightly with flour to prevent sticking and let the gnocchi rest for about 20 minutes.

While the gnocchi rest, prepare the sauce by heating olive oil in a saucepan. Add garlic, tomatoes, salt, oregano, basil, pepper flakes, and water. Simmer over medium heat until slightly thickened.

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the gnocchi. Cook until they float to the surface, usually within 1 to 2 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and toss gently with the prepared sauce. Serve immediately with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

gnocchi recipe ideas
gnocchi recipe ideas

Preparation Details

  • Prep Time: 1 hour
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Resting Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Servings: 4

Tips for Perfect Gnocchi

Use older potatoes rather than new potatoes since they contain less moisture and require less flour. Avoid overworking the dough, as this can make gnocchi dense instead of light. Cooking time is very short, so remove the gnocchi as soon as they float to prevent them from becoming mushy. This recipe also works well for variations such as sweet potato gnocchi recipe, ricotta gnocchi recipe, or vegetarian gnocchi recipe by adjusting the base ingredients and sauce choices.