Gnocchi, those pillowy Italian dumplings, offer a delicious alternative to pasta in your weeknight meals.
Whether made from traditional potatoes or other ingredients like pumpkin, beetroot, or sweet potatoes, gnocchi pairs wonderfully with various sauces and can be prepared in countless ways.
From creamy soups to sheet pan dinners, gnocchi recipes are versatile enough to satisfy any craving while cooking in half the time of many other dishes.
You don’t need to be an expert chef to create impressive gnocchi dishes at home. Many recipes require minimal preparation and cook quickly, making them perfect for busy evenings.
With options ranging from simple tomato basil combinations to more elaborate creations with sausage, cheese, or vegetables, there’s a gnocchi recipe for every taste preference and cooking skill level.
1. Potato Gnocchi with Sage and Parmesan
This classic recipe brings together simple ingredients for maximum flavor. Potato gnocchi forms the perfect base for a rich sage-butter sauce.
Cook your packaged potato gnocchi in salted boiling water until they float to the surface. This usually takes just a few minutes.
While the gnocchi cooks, melt butter in a pan with minced garlic and dried sage. Add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors.
Toss your cooked gnocchi in the sage-butter mixture until well coated. Transfer to serving dishes and top generously with grated Parmesan cheese.
Serve immediately for the best taste experience. The combination of buttery sauce, aromatic sage, and salty Parmesan creates a comforting meal you’ll love.
2. Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Gnocchi
This dish combines everyone’s favorite dip with pillowy potato gnocchi for a truly satisfying meal. The gnocchi is stuffed with a creamy spinach and artichoke filling that melts in your mouth.
For the sauce, start by melting butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. This creates a flavorful base for your creamy sauce.
You can prepare this as a one-pan meal that works as either a main dish or a decadent side. The rich, silky cream sauce coats each gnocchi perfectly, while the spinach and artichokes add both nutrition and flavor.
Try serving this in a skillet for an impressive presentation that goes straight from oven to table.
3. Truffle Oil and Wild Mushroom Gnocchi
Truffle oil and wild mushrooms create a luxurious flavor combo that transforms simple gnocchi into an impressive dish. This pairing brings earthy, rich notes that feel fancy but is actually simple to make.
Start by cooking your gnocchi according to package instructions until they float. Meanwhile, sauté mixed wild mushrooms in butter until golden brown.
Combine the cooked gnocchi with the mushrooms, then add a splash of heavy cream and grated Parmesan. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
For the finishing touch, drizzle with truffle oil just before serving. You can also add spinach for color and extra nutrition if you’d like.
4. Brown Butter Corn and Pesto Gnocchi
This summer pasta dish combines pillowy gnocchi with sweet corn sautéed in garlicky brown butter and basil pesto. The addition of lemony whipped ricotta gives it a creamy, tangy kick.
You can prepare this meal in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. The brown butter adds a nutty richness that complements the sweetness of the fresh corn.
For best results, use fresh corn cut straight from the cob during summer months. You can customize this dish by adding other seasonal vegetables or a protein of your choice.
5. Gorgonzola Cream Gnocchi
Gorgonzola cream gnocchi offers a perfect balance of rich flavors that melts in your mouth. This Italian classic pairs pillowy potato gnocchi with a velvety cheese sauce.
To make this dish, you’ll need gnocchi, heavy cream, gorgonzola cheese, butter, and Parmesan. Some recipes include garlic for extra flavor, while others add a pinch of nutmeg for warmth.
The preparation is simple. Cook your gnocchi until they float, then combine with a sauce made from melted gorgonzola and cream. Some versions include bacon for a savory twist, while others suggest baking the dish with breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping.
This comfort food takes about 30 minutes to prepare and serves 4-6 people.
6. Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Maple Butter
Sweet potato gnocchi offers a delicious twist on the classic potato version. The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes pairs perfectly with a rich maple butter sauce.
To make this dish, you’ll need a sweet potato, an egg, flour, butter, and maple syrup. Some recipes also add fresh herbs like thyme or sage for extra flavor.
First, cook and mash the sweet potato. Mix it with egg and flour to form a dough, then shape into small dumplings. Boil until they float to the surface.
The maple butter sauce is simple to prepare. Just melt butter until golden, add maple syrup, and toss in your cooked gnocchi. For extra flavor, try adding crispy sage leaves or bacon.
7. Cauliflower and Cheese Gnocchi
Cauliflower gnocchi is a delicious alternative to traditional potato gnocchi. It’s perfect for those looking to add more vegetables to their meals.
For the best results, toss frozen cauliflower gnocchi in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Bake at 400°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
To make a cheesy version, add parmesan for a tangy flavor boost. The combination of roasted cauliflower with melted cheese creates a creamy, satisfying dish.
Try it in a baked bolognese casserole topped with plenty of cheese. This hearty meal combines the light texture of cauliflower gnocchi with rich, savory flavors.
8. Baked Tuscan Gnocchi
Baked Tuscan Gnocchi offers a delicious one-pan meal you can prepare with minimal effort. This comfort dish features pillowy gnocchi combined with spinach, artichokes, and sun-dried tomatoes in a creamy sauce.
The best part is you don’t need to pre-boil the gnocchi. Simply make your cream sauce, pour it over the gnocchi, and bake it all together.
Start by sautéing onions and garlic in butter, then add chopped sun-dried tomatoes. For extra flavor, incorporate white wine, cream, and Parmesan cheese before mixing in spinach.
You can enhance this dish by adding protein like pan-fried chicken, which tastes excellent when cooked in sun-dried tomato oil.
9. Garlic Butter Shrimp Gnocchi
Garlic Butter Shrimp Gnocchi combines pillowy potato dumplings with succulent shrimp in a rich, flavorful sauce. This one-pan dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Start by cooking store-bought gnocchi according to package directions. While that’s happening, pat your shrimp dry and season them with salt and pepper.
In a large skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic and a diced shallot. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and opaque. Combine with the drained gnocchi, adding a splash of pasta water if needed.
Fresh spinach and tomatoes make excellent additions for color and nutrition. Finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an extra flavor boost.
10. Crispy Sheet Pan Gnocchi with Sausage
This simple dinner combines store-bought gnocchi with Italian sausage for a meal that’s both filling and flavorful. Instead of boiling the gnocchi, you’ll broil it on a sheet pan until it gets deliciously crispy on the outside.
The entire dish comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. You can customize it with different vegetables like mushrooms, butternut squash, peppers, or broccoli.
For extra flavor, try adding kale or arugula in the last few minutes of cooking. The greens will wilt slightly while the gnocchi and sausage develop a golden-brown crust.
11. Cacio e Pepe Gnocchi
Gnocchi Cacio e Pepe combines soft potato dumplings with a classic Roman sauce of cheese and black pepper. This dish requires just a few ingredients: gnocchi, butter, Parmesan (or Pecorino Romano), and freshly ground black pepper.
You can use store-bought gnocchi to save time or make your own from scratch. For the best flavor, toast the black pepper first to release its oils before adding it to the sauce.
The preparation is simple. Cook your gnocchi until they float, then toss them in a pan with melted butter. Add plenty of grated cheese and black pepper, creating a creamy sauce that coats each dumpling perfectly.
Serve immediately with optional salad leaves on the side for a complete meal.
12. Gnocchi with Tomato Basil Sauce
Gnocchi with tomato basil sauce is a classic Italian dish that combines pillowy potato dumplings with a vibrant, flavorful sauce. This simple yet satisfying meal takes store-bought gnocchi to the next level.
The sauce features burst cherry tomatoes sautéed with garlic, olive oil, and butter. Fresh basil adds a fragrant touch that perfectly complements the rich tomato flavors.
For extra indulgence, add melty parmesan and mozzarella cheese on top. Some variations include bits of pancetta for a savory punch.
You can prepare this dish quickly in just one pan, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something homey and delicious without much effort.
13. Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Gnocchi
This creamy gnocchi dish combines the smoky flavor of roasted red peppers with tangy goat cheese for a truly satisfying meal. The recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
You’ll need a package of gnocchi, diced onion, heavy cream, and goat cheese as your base ingredients. The goat cheese melts beautifully into the sauce, creating a rich, velvety texture.
For extra flavor, consider adding red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. Cherry tomatoes can be included for freshness and color contrast. This versatile dish works well with added protein like chicken sausage or as a vegetarian main course.
14. Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Chicken
Creamy pesto gnocchi with chicken is a restaurant-quality meal you can make at home in just 30 minutes. This one-pan dinner combines pillowy potato gnocchi with tender chicken pieces in a rich, creamy pesto sauce.
The dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Simply cook your chicken, add the gnocchi, and stir in pesto and cream to create a velvety sauce.
For extra flavor, try adding cherry tomatoes and fresh mozzarella. The tomatoes provide a burst of brightness while the melted cheese makes everything deliciously creamy.
You can use store-bought pesto or homemade depending on your preference and time constraints.
15. Cheesy Gnocchi Florentine
Cheesy Gnocchi Florentine is a quick and flavorful weeknight meal you can prepare in just 30 minutes using one skillet. This delicious dish combines soft gnocchi with fresh spinach in a creamy, cheesy sauce.
The recipe typically includes butter, onions, flour, and half-and-half to create a rich base. You’ll find the spinach adds both nutrients and a pop of color to the dish.
Many home cooks report this dish becomes a family favorite. The combination of tender gnocchi, leafy spinach, and melty cheese creates a comfort food that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare.
This gluten-free option (when using gluten-free gnocchi) offers a perfect balance of convenience and taste for busy evenings.
16. Harissa Chicken Gnocchi
Harissa Chicken Gnocchi combines pillowy potato dumplings with a spicy-sweet North African twist. The creamy sauce mixes harissa paste with cream for the perfect balance of heat and richness.
Tender chicken pieces are seasoned with ras el hanout, a fragrant spice blend that complements the harissa beautifully. Sliced mushrooms add earthy flavors while spinach brings a fresh element.
You can finish this dish with crumbled feta cheese for a tangy contrast to the spicy sauce. This one-pan meal comes together quickly for a weeknight dinner that feels special.
17. Lemon Ricotta Gnocchi
Lemon Ricotta Gnocchi offers a lighter, brighter twist on traditional potato gnocchi. These cloud-like pillows are made with ricotta cheese instead of potatoes, creating a softer texture.
The addition of lemon zest gives these gnocchi a refreshing citrus flavor that works beautifully with various sauces. You can serve them with a simple herb butter or a light cream sauce.
This version is surprisingly easy to make, even for beginners. The dough comes together quickly, requiring less kneading than potato versions.
Try pairing these delicate gnocchi with fresh spring vegetables like peas for a seasonal treat. The zesty flavor profile makes them perfect for warm-weather meals.
18. Chickpea Gnocchi with Spinach
Chickpea gnocchi offers a gluten-free, plant-based alternative to traditional potato gnocchi. This variation has a slightly nuttier flavor and packs more protein than the classic version.
The combination of chickpea gnocchi with fresh spinach creates a nutritious meal that’s both satisfying and light. The leafy greens add vibrant color and essential nutrients to the dish.
For extra flavor, try adding roasted tomatoes to the mix. The sweetness of roasted tomatoes balances perfectly with the earthy chickpea gnocchi and spinach.
You can dress this dish with a simple olive oil drizzle or opt for a creamy sauce for a more indulgent meal.
19. Pumpkin Gnocchi with Sage Brown Butter
Pumpkin gnocchi offers a delightful fall twist on traditional gnocchi. The addition of pumpkin creates pillowy, slightly sweet dumplings that pair perfectly with savory flavors.
The secret to achieving soft, tender gnocchi is adding ricotta to your dough. This helps create the perfect texture without making the dumplings too dense.
The sage brown butter sauce is incredibly simple yet flavorful. When butter browns, it develops a nutty aroma that complements the pumpkin beautifully. Add fresh sage leaves to the butter as it browns for an aromatic finish.
You’ll know your gnocchi is cooked when the pieces float to the top of the boiling water, typically after 2-3 minutes.
20. Gnocchi Bolognese
Gnocchi Bolognese combines pillowy potato dumplings with a rich, meaty sauce for a cozy, restaurant-worthy dish. The hearty sauce simmers ground beef and pork with aromatics, wine, and tomatoes until flavors meld beautifully.
You can prepare this comforting meal in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights or special date nights. The soft gnocchi pairs wonderfully with the robust sauce.
For a quicker version, try a Bolognese-inspired bake that’s easy to assemble. Some variations use ground chicken instead of beef and pork for a lighter option.
This dish delivers impressive flavor with minimal effort, giving you a satisfying Italian meal without complicated techniques.
21. Beetroot Gnocchi with Fried Sage
Beetroot gnocchi brings a beautiful pop of color and earthy sweetness to this Italian classic. You start by roasting beetroot and potatoes until tender, then combining them to form a vibrant pink dough.
The dough is rolled and cut into small pieces before being cooked in boiling water. When they float to the top, they’re ready.
The perfect pairing for beetroot gnocchi is a simple sage butter sauce. Fry sage leaves in butter until crisp, then drizzle this fragrant sauce over your gnocchi. Top with chopped walnuts for a delightful crunch.
This dish balances sweet, earthy beetroot with aromatic sage and rich butter for a memorable meal.
Gnocchi Cooking Techniques
Mastering the right cooking methods transforms ordinary gnocchi into exceptional dishes. The texture and flavor of these potato dumplings depend greatly on how they’re prepared.
Boiling Tips
Boiling is the traditional method for cooking gnocchi. Start with a large pot of water – you’ll need plenty of space for the gnocchi to move freely.
Add salt generously, about 1-2 tablespoons per gallon of water, to enhance flavor.
Once the water reaches a rolling boil, gently add your gnocchi. Avoid overcrowding the pot, as gnocchi need room to cook evenly. Work in batches if necessary.
The most important indicator of doneness is when gnocchi float to the surface, typically after 2-3 minutes.
Use a slotted spoon to remove them promptly to prevent overcooking.
For best results, transfer cooked gnocchi directly to your sauce rather than rinsing with cold water. This helps the sauce adhere better to the surface.
Pan-Frying Gnocchi
Pan-frying creates a delightful contrast between crispy exteriors and soft centers. Start with pre-cooked (boiled) gnocchi or use store-bought varieties that can be cooked directly in the pan.
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
Add gnocchi in a single layer, allowing space between each piece. Avoid stirring immediately to let a golden crust form.
Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they develop a golden-brown exterior. Gently flip with a spatula to crisp the other side.
For enhanced flavor, add minced garlic or herbs like rosemary and sage during the last minute of cooking. The herbs will become crisp and infuse the oil with their flavors.
Recommended Sauces for Gnocchi
Gnocchi pairs wonderfully with many sauces that complement its soft, pillowy texture. The right sauce can elevate these potato dumplings from a simple dish to an extraordinary meal.
Classic Tomato Sauce
Tomato sauce creates a perfect balance with gnocchi’s delicate flavor.
Start with sautéed onions and garlic in olive oil until fragrant. Add crushed tomatoes, a pinch of sugar, salt, pepper, and dried herbs like oregano and basil. Simmer for 20-30 minutes until slightly thickened.
For extra flavor, add a splash of red wine or a dollop of tomato paste.
Fresh herbs like basil or parsley stirred in at the end brighten the sauce.
Many home cooks enhance their tomato sauce with:
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Red pepper flakes for heat
- A touch of cream for richness
Store-bought tomato sauce works in a pinch—just simmer it with extra seasonings to improve the flavor.
Brown Butter Sage Sauce
This elegant sauce takes minutes to prepare but delivers remarkable flavor. Melt 4-6 tablespoons of butter in a pan over medium heat until it turns golden brown with a nutty aroma. Be careful not to burn it.
Add 8-10 fresh sage leaves and let them crisp slightly in the butter. The combination creates a rich, aromatic sauce that clings beautifully to gnocchi.
For extra dimension, try these additions:
- A squeeze of lemon juice
- Toasted pine nuts or walnuts
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- A tiny grating of nutmeg
This sauce works best when tossed with hot gnocchi directly in the pan, allowing the dumplings to absorb the flavors.
