Gnocchi, those pillowy potato dumplings we all love, can transform an ordinary meal into something special. These versatile little pasta bites work well with many flavors, from simple garlic and Parmesan to rich cream sauces.
You can even make gnocchi with ingredients beyond the traditional potato, like sweet potato, pumpkin, or beetroot.
Whether you prefer them pan-fried and crispy or swimming in a creamy sauce, there’s a gnocchi dish for every taste. From quick family meals to elegant dinner party options, these recipes help you explore all the delicious possibilities this Italian pasta offers.
1. Classic Potato Gnocchi
Classic potato gnocchi forms the base of many delicious Italian meals. These soft, pillowy dumplings are made primarily from potatoes and flour.
You can make gnocchi at home with just a few simple ingredients. Start with starchy potatoes and boil them until tender, then mash them smoothly.
Mix your mashed potatoes with flour and a bit of salt to form a dough. Shape the dough into small dumplings, pressing lightly with a fork to create ridges that hold sauce well.
Boil your gnocchi until they float to the surface, which typically takes only 2-3 minutes. They cook much faster than regular pasta, making them perfect for quick meals.
2. Spinach-and-Artichoke Stuffed Gnocchi
This dish combines the popular flavors of spinach-artichoke dip with pillowy potato gnocchi. The result is a creamy, comforting meal that’s sure to impress.
Start by creating a flavorful stuffing mixture. Fill the gnocchi with this spinach and artichoke blend.
Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat for the sauce. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
Prepare this as a main dish or a decadent side. It brings together Italian herbs and spices with the beloved flavors of a classic appetizer dip.
3. Crispy Sheet Pan Gnocchi with Sausage and Peppers
This clever dish lets you skip boiling gnocchi altogether. Broil these potato dumplings right on a sheet pan until they become delightfully crispy on the outside.
Cook the gnocchi alongside colorful bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, and Italian sausage. Toss everything with olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, and a pinch of chile flakes before spreading on your pan.
Preheat your oven to 400°F and roast for about 30 minutes. This quick weeknight dinner offers minimal cleanup.
4. Cacio e Pepe Mushroom Gnocchi
This Italian-inspired dish combines the creamy, peppery flavors of cacio e pepe with pillowy gnocchi and earthy mushrooms. The simplicity of the ingredients allows their flavors to shine.
Boil gnocchi in salted water until they float to the surface, which takes just 2-3 minutes. While the gnocchi cooks, prepare a sauce with butter and freshly cracked black peppercorns.
Use a mix of high-quality mushrooms and fresh sage leaves for the best results. Finely grated Parmesan and Pecorino cheeses create a silky texture that coats each piece of gnocchi.
Use store-bought gnocchi for convenience or make your own for a truly special meal.
5. Homemade Potato Gnocchi with Tomato Sauce
Making potato gnocchi from scratch is easier than you might think. You’ll need Yukon Gold potatoes, flour, and salt as your base ingredients.
The key to perfect gnocchi is not overworking the dough. Mix just until combined to keep them light and fluffy.
Pair your gnocchi with a simple tomato sauce flavored with Italian seasonings, onion powder, and fresh garlic. For an authentic touch like “gnocchi alla sorrentina,” top with mozzarella and parmesan before baking until the cheese melts.
6. Pesto Gnocchi with Peas and Spinach
This quick and creamy dish combines pillowy gnocchi with fresh pesto, bright green peas, and baby spinach. Ready in just 10 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without much effort.
The combination creates a colorful, flavorful meal full of different textures. The soft gnocchi contrasts nicely with the tender peas, while the spinach adds extra nutrition.
Use store-bought pesto or make your own by blending spinach, basil, Parmesan, garlic, and pine nuts. For a more indulgent version, add a splash of cream or top with burrata cheese before serving.
7. Sausage Gnocchi with Creamy Sauce
This one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights when you need dinner on the table in 30 minutes. The combination of pillowy gnocchi with spicy Italian sausage creates a satisfying meal that’s both comforting and flavorful.
The creamy tomato sauce brings everything together, coating each piece of gnocchi with rich flavor. Customize this dish by choosing mild or hot Italian sausage depending on your preference.
Add leafy greens like spinach or kale for extra nutrition. The sauce, made with cream, wine, and Italian seasonings, transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy dish.
8. Ricotta Gnocchi with Wild Garlic and Walnut Pesto
This delicate ricotta gnocchi pairs with vibrant wild garlic and walnut pesto for an elegant yet simple dish. The light texture of ricotta gnocchi contrasts beautifully with the bold flavors of the pesto.
Prepare this recipe quickly for a special meal that serves two. The pesto’s combination of wild garlic, walnuts, and basil creates a fresh, aromatic sauce.
The gnocchi’s pillowy texture provides the perfect base for the vibrant green pesto to cling to. Each bite feels balanced and flavorful.
9. Asparagus Gnocchi
Asparagus gnocchi brings together two spring favorites in one delicious dish. The tender pillowy gnocchi pairs perfectly with the crisp, fresh asparagus for a meal that’s both comforting and light.
Make this dish in several ways: toss them together in a skillet for a quick meal, bake them on a sheet pan, or combine them in a one-pot wonder with other spring vegetables like peas and spinach.
For extra flavor, add lemon juice for brightness or a mustard dressing. Some recipes include a miso butter sauce or pair the asparagus gnocchi with crispy pancetta for a Tuscan twist.
This versatile combination makes an ideal weeknight dinner that comes together in about 20 minutes.
10. Baked Tuscan Gnocchi
Baked Tuscan Gnocchi is the ultimate comfort food that combines pillowy gnocchi with creamy, cheesy goodness. This dish features fresh garlic, basil leaves, and a rich sauce that wraps around each dumpling.
Prepare this one-pan meal in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The recipe typically includes spinach, artichokes, and sun-dried tomatoes for a vegetable boost.
Some variations include adding Italian sausage and kale for extra flavor and nutrition. Try it with different sauces like vodka sauce or roasted red pepper pesto for variety.
Finish with plenty of cheese melted on top, creating a golden, bubbling surface that’s irresistible when served hot from the oven.
11. Cauliflower Orange Gnocchi
Cauliflower Orange Gnocchi is a standout dish that captures the magical smoky-sweet flavor of roasted cauliflower. This recipe combines pillowy potato gnocchi with paper-thin slices of cauliflower in a glossy, slightly citrusy sauce.
The key ingredients include gnocchi, cauliflower, shallot, butter, heavy cream, orange zest, orange juice, red pepper flakes, and chives. The orange adds a bright note that balances the richness of the cream sauce.
Inspired by a popular menu item at Bar La Grassa restaurant, you can easily recreate this restaurant-quality meal at home.
12. Brown Butter Corn and Pesto Gnocchi
This delicious dish combines sweet corn with pillowy gnocchi in a rich brown butter sauce. It’s topped with fresh basil pesto for an amazing summer pasta option ready in just 30 minutes.
Prepare a lemony whipped ricotta base first. Sauté the gnocchi until golden, then add aromatics and corn to the pan.
Mix everything together with pesto for the final assembly. Some versions include burrata for extra creaminess.
The combination of sweet corn, nutty brown butter, and herbaceous pesto creates perfect flavor balance.
13. Creamy Chickpea Gnocchi with Roasted Tomatoes and Spinach
This plant-based dish combines chickpea gnocchi with roasted tomatoes and fresh spinach for a healthy, flavorful meal. The creamy sauce complements the pillowy gnocchi perfectly.
Have this delicious dish ready in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The recipe calls for simple ingredients like fresh basil, garlic, and Delallo Italian roasted tomatoes.
Chickpea gnocchi offers a gluten-free alternative to traditional gnocchi. It pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce and vegetables.
For added flavor, garnish with fresh basil leaves.
14. Creamy Gnocchi with Italian Sausage and Sage
This comforting one-pan meal brings together pillowy gnocchi with spicy Italian sausage in a rich, creamy sauce. Fresh sage adds an earthy flavor that perfectly complements the savory sausage.
Prepare this hearty dish in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of cream, Parmesan cheese, and tomato creates a silky sauce that coats each gnocchi.
For extra nutrition, add spinach or kale in the final minutes of cooking. The leafy greens wilt down beautifully into the warm sauce.
Serve this cozy dish with a simple side salad and crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
15. Sheet Pan Gnocchi with Mushrooms and Shallots
This quick dish combines shelf-stable potato gnocchi with mushrooms and shallots for a simple weeknight meal. Prep takes only 5-10 minutes, and cooking time is about 15-20 minutes.
Toss one pound of gnocchi with mushrooms, thinly sliced shallots, and a drizzle of olive oil. Add salt and pepper for seasoning.
Spread everything on a sheet pan in an even layer and roast at 425°F for 20-25 minutes. The gnocchi becomes slightly crisp on the outside while staying tender inside.
For added flavor, include scallions or add fresh spinach in the last few minutes of cooking.
16. Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Sage Butter
Sweet potato gnocchi offers a delightful twist on traditional gnocchi with its natural sweetness and vibrant orange color. Made from roasted sweet potatoes, this version stays light and fluffy.
The star of this dish is the sage butter sauce. Melt butter in a skillet until it begins to brown, then add fresh sage leaves and minced garlic.
For the best texture, avoid overworking the dough when mixing your sweet potatoes with flour. Add a pinch of nutmeg to enhance the fall flavors.
Serve with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top. Broccoli rabe makes an excellent side to balance the sweetness of the gnocchi.
17. Pumpkin Gnocchi with Brown Butter and Hazelnuts
This dish combines the earthy sweetness of pumpkin with pillowy soft gnocchi for a perfect fall meal. The gnocchi has a delicate pumpkin flavor that pairs wonderfully with the rich brown butter sauce.
Pan-fry the gnocchi until it develops a crispy exterior while maintaining a soft center. Make the brown butter by cooking butter until it deepens in color and develops a nutty aroma.
Add chopped hazelnuts and sage to the brown butter for enhanced flavor. The toasted hazelnuts provide a pleasant crunch that contrasts with the soft gnocchi.
18. Ricotta and Parmesan Gnocchi
Ricotta gnocchi offers a quicker alternative to traditional potato gnocchi with a lighter, fluffier texture. You can make these pillowy dumplings in just 20 minutes from start to finish.
Mix egg, ricotta cheese, and a touch of oil together first. Then add grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of nutmeg for flavor.
You don’t need to boil and mash potatoes for this version, making it foolproof even for beginners. The cheese combination creates a delicate texture that pairs perfectly with creamy mushroom sauce or classic red sauce.
Dress up your ricotta gnocchi with herbed ricotta and golden breadcrumbs on top for an extra special touch.
19. Gnocchi with Spinach and Garlic
This simple yet flavorful dish combines pillowy gnocchi with fresh spinach and aromatic garlic. You can prepare it in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Start with a package of potato gnocchi and pair it with thawed frozen chopped spinach. Sauté 2-3 chopped garlic cloves in olive oil for a fragrant base.
Finish the dish with pasta sauce for a heartier meal or keep it light with just a drizzle of olive oil and parmesan cheese. The combination creates a satisfying balance of textures and flavors.
Try the three-cheese variation that blankets the gnocchi in a creamy tomato sauce with melty cheese for extra richness.
20. Mushroom and Truffle Oil Gnocchi
This simple yet elegant dish combines pillowy gnocchi with earthy mushrooms and luxurious truffle oil. You’ll need pre-made gnocchi, cremini mushrooms, and fresh spinach for the base.
Cook your gnocchi according to package directions. While the gnocchi cooks, sauté sliced mushrooms in butter until golden brown.
Combine the cooked gnocchi with the mushrooms. Add fresh spinach and let it wilt slightly.
Season with salt, pepper, and a splash of lemon juice. Finish with a light drizzle of truffle oil and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
21. Gnocchi with Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto
Gnocchi with sun-dried tomato pesto offers a flavorful meal that comes together quickly. Store-bought gnocchi pairs perfectly with the rich, tangy flavor of sun-dried tomato pesto.
Prepare this dish in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Simply cook the gnocchi according to package directions, then toss with your pesto.
For extra texture and flavor, add walnuts on top. Some variations include adding peas or creating a creamy sauce by mixing in a little plant-based or regular cream.
This dish works well as a sheet pan meal too. Combine the ingredients and bake for a hands-off dinner option.
Tips For Making Perfect Gnocchi
Mastering homemade gnocchi takes practice, but the right techniques help you create light, fluffy pillows of potato pasta. These practical tips will help you navigate common challenges.
Choosing the Right Potatoes
Russet potatoes are ideal for gnocchi because of their high starch content and dry texture. They create fluffier dumplings than waxy varieties like red or new potatoes.
Cook potatoes with their skins on to prevent them from absorbing too much water. You can bake, steam, or boil them, but baking often produces the driest result.
Use potatoes when they’re still warm but not hot. This helps you achieve the right consistency without needing to add too much flour.
Invest in a potato ricer. It creates a uniformly smooth texture without overworking the potatoes, which can make gnocchi gummy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Adding too much flour is the most frequent error. Use only enough to form a workable dough—about ¼ cup per pound of potatoes.
The dough should feel slightly tacky but not sticky. Mix ingredients just until combined and knead gently.
Never overwork the dough. Excessive handling activates the gluten, resulting in tough gnocchi.
Let potatoes cool completely before adding eggs. Hot potatoes can cook the egg, making your dough lumpy and inconsistent.
Test cook a few gnocchi before shaping the entire batch. If they fall apart in boiling water, your dough needs more flour.
Avoid crowding the pot when cooking. Gnocchi need space to float and cook evenly.
Sauce Pairing Suggestions
Simple sauces work best with homemade gnocchi. A classic sage-brown butter sauce highlights the delicate potato flavor.
Tomato-based sauces should be light rather than heavy. Try a fresh cherry tomato sauce with basil and a splash of cream for balance.
Creamy sauces like gorgonzola or parmesan cream complement gnocchi beautifully. Add toasted walnuts or pine nuts for texture contrast.
Pesto is another excellent pairing. The herbaceous flavor works wonderfully with the mild potato dumplings.
Consider seasonal variations—mushroom ragù in fall, fresh pea and mint in spring, or roasted cherry tomatoes in summer.
Serving and Storing Gnocchi
Gnocchi is a versatile dish that you can elevate with creative presentation techniques and proper storage methods. Showcasing and preserving these pillowy potato dumplings ensures you get the most enjoyment from your gnocchi dishes.
Creative Presentation Ideas
Restaurant-Style Plating: Create a small mound of gnocchi in the center of a warm plate. Drizzle sauce around the edges and garnish with fresh herbs or microgreens for an elegant touch.
Family-Style Serving: Place gnocchi in a large, shallow bowl with the sauce spooned over top. Add shaved Parmesan and cracked black pepper to finish.
Color Contrast: Pair vibrant sauces with classic gnocchi for visual appeal. A bright pesto or rich red tomato sauce creates striking visual contrast against the pale dumplings.
Garnish Options:
- Fresh herbs (basil, parsley, sage)
- Toasted pine nuts or breadcrumbs
- Crispy prosciutto bits
- Grated Parmesan or crumbled cheese
Serve gnocchi in warm bowls rather than plates to keep them hot longer and prevent sauce from spreading too thin.
How to Store and Reheat Gnocchi
Refrigerating Cooked Gnocchi: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Toss with a small amount of olive oil before refrigerating to prevent sticking.
Freezing Options:
- Uncooked gnocchi: Place on a floured baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer to freezer bags and store for up to 2 months.
- Cooked gnocchi: Cool completely before freezing in freezer-safe containers. Use within 1 month.
Reheating Methods:
Gently reheat refrigerated gnocchi. Add a splash of water to your sauce and warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat.
Thaw frozen cooked gnocchi in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Avoid microwaving, as it can make gnocchi tough or gummy.
When reheating gnocchi with cream-based sauces, add a little fresh cream to revive the texture.
