There’s something magical about the combination of fluffy, pillowy ricotta gnocchi paired with a rich marinara sauce. Every bite is a comforting embrace, reminiscent of warm family dinners and cozy nights in. This Ricotta Gnocchi with Marinara recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience, bringing together the simplicity of Italian cooking with the satisfaction of homemade pasta. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a dish that is both elegant and approachable. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe and discover why it’s a must-try.
Why This Recipe Is Reliable
This Ricotta Gnocchi with Marinara recipe stands out for its reliability and flavor. Using ricotta as the base for the gnocchi gives it a tender texture that is hard to beat. Unlike traditional potato gnocchi, this version is less prone to becoming dense or gummy, making it perfect for beginner cooks and seasoned chefs alike. The balance of ingredients ensures that the gnocchi hold their shape while cooking and absorb the marinara sauce beautifully, resulting in a dish that is both light and filling. Plus, it’s a fun way to get your hands dirty in the kitchen!
Your Shopping Guide
Before you start, here’s a detailed shopping guide to ensure you have everything you need for this Ricotta Gnocchi with Marinara:
- Ricotta Cheese: 12 ounces, preferably fresh for the best flavor and texture.
- All-Purpose Flour: 2 cups (you can use “00” pasta flour if available for a finer texture).
- Egg: 1 large egg to bind the ingredients together.
- Salt: 1 teaspoon to enhance the flavor of the dough.
- Marinara Sauce: Store-bought or homemade, to serve with the gnocchi.
- Fresh Basil (optional): For garnish and added flavor.
Before You Start: Equipment
Before you dive into making your Ricotta Gnocchi, gather the following tools:
- Mixing Bowl: For combining the ingredients.
- Fork or Potato Masher: To blend the ricotta and flour seamlessly.
- Floured Surface: To roll out and shape your gnocchi.
- Knife or Bench Scraper: For cutting the gnocchi into pieces.
- Large Pot: For boiling the gnocchi.
- Saucepan: To heat your marinara sauce.
Ricotta Gnocchi with Marinara: Step-by-Step Guide
Making Ricotta Gnocchi with Marinara is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to create your delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine 12 ounces of ricotta cheese, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Use a fork or potato masher to mix until smooth.
Step 2: Incorporate the Flour
Gradually add 2 cups of all-purpose flour to the ricotta mixture, stirring gently until a dough forms. If you’re using “00” flour, the texture will be even smoother!
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead gently for about 2 minutes, just until you have a smooth, slightly sticky dough. Avoid overworking it to keep the gnocchi light.
Step 4: Shape the Gnocchi
Divide the dough into four equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope about ¾-inch thick. Cut the rope into 1-inch pieces to form your gnocchi.
Step 5: Create the Classic Indentation
Using a fork, press down lightly on each piece to create the classic gnocchi shape and indentation. This helps the sauce cling to the gnocchi.
Step 6: Boil the Gnocchi
Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle boil. Add the gnocchi in batches, cooking them until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and transfer to a plate.
Step 7: Heat the Marinara
In a saucepan, heat your marinara sauce over medium heat until warmed through. If you want to elevate the flavor, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of olive oil can do wonders.
Step 8: Combine and Serve
Toss the cooked gnocchi in the marinara sauce until well coated. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil for a pop of color and flavor.
Allergy-Friendly Swaps
If you have dietary restrictions, here are some allergy-friendly swaps you can consider:
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute ricotta with a plant-based ricotta alternative.
- Egg-Free: Use a flax egg or applesauce as a binding agent.
Insider Tips
To make your Ricotta Gnocchi with Marinara even more delightful, consider these tips:
- Ensure your ricotta is well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the dough.
- Don’t over-knead the dough; it should be tender and light.
- For a fun twist, add herbs or spices to the dough for added flavor.
- Try pairing the gnocchi with different sauces, such as Creamy Spinach And Sun Dried Tomato Gnocchi Bake or Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Gnocchi.
Best Ways to Store
If you have leftovers or want to make the gnocchi ahead of time, here’s how to store them:
You can refrigerate cooked gnocchi in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet with a little marinara sauce. If you want to freeze the uncooked gnocchi, spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. They can be cooked directly from frozen—just add a minute or two to the cooking time.
Ricotta Gnocchi with Marinara Q&A
Can I make the gnocchi dough ahead of time?
Yes, the gnocchi dough can be made a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Allow it to come to room temperature before rolling and cutting.
What type of ricotta should I use?
For the best flavor and texture, use whole milk ricotta. If possible, opt for fresh ricotta, as it will yield a creamier gnocchi.
Can I use a different sauce with the gnocchi?
Absolutely! While marinara is a classic choice, you could try it with a brown butter sage sauce or even a creamy sauce like Garlic Parmesan Gnocchi With Crispy Pancake Style Seared Sides.
What should I serve with Ricotta Gnocchi with Marinara?
This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad, garlic bread, or even steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
If you’re looking for more delicious recipes to try, check out these favorites:
Let’s Eat
Now that you’ve mastered the art of making Ricotta Gnocchi with Marinara, it’s time to dig in! This dish not only satisfies your cravings but also provides a wonderful opportunity to gather friends and family around the table. Whether you’re enjoying it on a quiet weeknight or serving it at a special occasion, this gnocchi will surely impress.
With its simplicity and depth of flavor, Ricotta Gnocchi with Marinara is a dish that deserves a place in your recipe repertoire. Don’t forget to share your cooking experience and enjoy every delicious bite!
Ricotta Gnocchi with Marinara
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, and salt. Mix until smooth using a fork or potato masher.
- Step 2: Gradually add all-purpose flour to the ricotta mixture, stirring gently until a dough forms.
- Step 3: Transfer dough to a floured surface and knead gently for about 2 minutes until smooth.
- Step 4: Divide dough into four pieces, roll each into a rope, and cut into 1-inch pieces.
- Step 5: Create indentations on each piece using a fork.
- Step 6: Boil salted water, add gnocchi, and cook until they float, about 2-3 minutes.
- Step 7: Heat marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through.
- Step 8: Toss the gnocchi in the marinara sauce and serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil.
Notes
- Ensure your ricotta is well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the dough.
- Don't over-knead the dough; it should remain tender and light.
- For added flavor, consider mixing in herbs or spices.
