Fluffy Homemade Ricotta Gnocchi Recipe | Soft, Pillowy Pasta Made from Scratch

If you’ve ever had the pleasure of eating soft, pillowy ricotta gnocchi, you know just how comforting and delicious this Italian classic is. But what if I told you that making these heavenly dumplings at home is not only easy, but also incredibly rewarding? Whether you’re new to homemade pasta or you’re a seasoned home cook, this guide is packed with everything you need to know about creating perfect ricotta gnocchi—from scratch.

In this article, you’ll find step-by-step instructions, expert tips, creative serving ideas, common mistakes to avoid, and answers to frequently asked questions, all wrapped in a friendly, human tone—like a trusted friend sharing their Italian grandmother’s secrets.

Let’s roll up our sleeves and get into the soft, cheesy world of homemade ricotta gnocchi!

What is Ricotta Gnocchi?

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s set the scene. Gnocchi (pronounced nyo-kee) are small Italian dumplings traditionally made from potatoes, flour, and egg. But ricotta gnocchi—also known as gnudi in some regions—swap out the potatoes for creamy ricotta cheese, making them lighter, tender, and super fluffy.

Unlike traditional gnocchi, which can be a bit time-consuming and require extra steps like boiling and mashing potatoes, ricotta gnocchi come together faster and with fewer ingredients. That makes them perfect for weeknight dinners or impressive weekend meals.

Why You’ll Love This Ricotta Gnocchi Recipe

Let’s be honest—store-bought gnocchi doesn’t even come close. Once you try this homemade ricotta gnocchi recipe, there’s no turning back.

Here’s why it’s a winner:

• ✅ Minimal ingredients
• ✅ Quick prep time (ready in under 30 minutes)
• ✅ No fancy tools needed
• ✅ Soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture
• ✅ Pairs beautifully with any sauce—pesto, marinara, or butter and sage

You don’t have to be Italian or a trained chef to master this dish. All you need is a bowl, some flour, and a whole lot of cheesy goodness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s go over the short but mighty list of ingredients that create magic in every bite of ricotta gnocchi.

🧀 Ricotta Cheese (1 cup)

Use whole milk ricotta for the best flavor and texture. If it’s too watery, be sure to drain it using cheesecloth or paper towels. Dry ricotta equals fluffy gnocchi.

🧂 Salt (1 teaspoon)

Essential for flavor—don’t skip or skimp.

🍳 Large Egg (1)

Helps bind the dough together.

🧀 Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup, grated)

Brings a salty, nutty bite that complements the ricotta perfectly.

🌾 All-Purpose Flour (1 cup + more for dusting)

The glue that holds it all together. Just enough to create a dough—not too much or you’ll lose the pillowy texture.

🌰 Nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon, optional)

A tiny pinch adds a warm depth of flavor that’s subtle but delightful.

🧂 Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon)

Enhances the savory profile.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Homemade Ricotta Gnocchi

Ready to get cooking? Here’s how to make ricotta gnocchi from scratch.

Step 1: Mix the Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta, grated Parmesan, egg, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Stir until smooth and well-blended.

💡 Pro Tip: If your ricotta is on the wetter side, you can press it through a fine mesh sieve or wrap it in a paper towel and gently squeeze out excess moisture.

Step 2: Add the Flour

Gradually sprinkle in the flour, mixing as you go. The dough should be soft, slightly sticky, but still hold together when shaped.

Step 3: Knead Lightly

Transfer the dough to a floured surface. Knead gently a few times—no need to overwork it. Over-kneading = tough gnocchi.

Step 4: Roll and Shape

Divide your dough into four portions. Roll each into a long rope, about 3/4-inch thick. Then cut each rope into 1-inch pieces.

If you want to get fancy, roll each piece over a gnocchi board or the back of a fork to create ridges (which help hold more sauce!).

Step 5: Boil the Gnocchi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle boil—not a rapid one. Add the gnocchi in batches. When they float to the surface (about 2–3 minutes), they’re done!

Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked gnocchi directly into your sauce of choice.

The Best Sauces for Ricotta Gnocchi

Let’s talk toppings. The beauty of ricotta gnocchi is that they go with just about everything. Here are a few perfect pairings:

🍃 Browned Butter and Sage

Simple and elegant. Melt butter until it browns slightly and add fresh sage leaves. Toss the gnocchi right in for an herbaceous finish.

🍅 Classic Marinara

A tangy, rich tomato sauce cuts through the richness of the gnocchi. Add a sprinkle of Parmesan and you’re golden.

🌿 Basil Pesto

Bright, green, and garlicky—pesto is a bold and fragrant partner for soft ricotta gnocchi.

🧄 Garlic Cream Sauce

Want to go decadent? Simmer heavy cream with garlic and Parmesan for a creamy, dreamy finish.

Tips for Perfect Ricotta Gnocchi Every Time

✔️ Drain Your Ricotta

We can’t stress this enough. Too much moisture = mushy gnocchi. Your ricotta should feel thick, not runny.

✔️ Don’t Over-Flour

Too much flour makes them dense and chewy. You want just enough to hold the dough together.

✔️ Boil Gently

A hard boil can break apart your delicate dumplings. Keep it to a gentle simmer.

✔️ Test a Few First

Before cooking the whole batch, try boiling 2–3 pieces. If they fall apart, your dough may need a touch more flour.

Creative Variations to Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic ricotta gnocchi, it’s time to have some fun. Here are a few ways to mix it up:

• 🥬 Spinach Ricotta Gnocchi: Add finely chopped, drained spinach to the dough for a color and flavor boost.
• 🌶️ Spicy Ricotta Gnocchi: Add red pepper flakes or a touch of chili oil to your sauce.
• 🧀 Truffle Gnocchi: Drizzle with truffle oil or toss in truffle butter for luxury at home.
• 🧄 Herb Gnocchi: Mix in fresh chopped herbs like thyme, basil, or chives right into the dough.

How to Store and Reheat Ricotta Gnocchi

🧊 To Refrigerate:

Place uncooked gnocchi on a floured baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 2 days.

❄️ To Freeze:

Freeze the shaped gnocchi on a tray. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Cook directly from frozen (they may take an extra minute to cook).

🔥 To Reheat:

If already cooked, reheat gently in a skillet with sauce or a touch of butter. Avoid the microwave—it can turn them gummy.

Health Benefits of Ricotta Gnocchi

Believe it or not, this indulgent dish isn’t just comfort food—it also has some nutritional benefits.

• 🧀 High in Calcium from ricotta and Parmesan
• 🥚 Good Source of Protein thanks to eggs and cheese
• 🌿 Lower in Carbs than traditional potato gnocchi
• 🌱 Vegetarian-Friendly

When paired with a homemade veggie-packed sauce or salad, ricotta gnocchi becomes a well-rounded meal you can feel good about.

FAQs About Ricotta Gnocchi

1. Can I make ricotta gnocchi without egg?

Yes, though the egg does help bind the dough. Without it, you’ll need to be extra careful when shaping and boiling—add a bit more flour if needed.

2. Why are my ricotta gnocchi falling apart in water?

This usually means the dough was too wet. Next time, drain the ricotta more and add a touch more flour.

3. Can I use low-fat ricotta?

You can, but the texture won’t be as rich and creamy. Whole milk ricotta is recommended for best results.

4. How do I know when gnocchi are done?

When they float to the top of the pot, they’re ready! Don’t overcook—they can become soggy.

5. Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can make the dough, shape the gnocchi, and refrigerate or freeze until ready to cook.

6. What’s the difference between gnocchi and gnudi?

Great question! Gnudi are typically ricotta-based and don’t contain much flour. Gnocchi (especially potato gnocchi) have more structure. This recipe is a delicious hybrid of the two.

Conclusion: Why Ricotta Gnocchi Should Be Your Next Homemade Meal

In a world of store-bought pasta and quick fixes, ricotta gnocchi stand out as a shining example of what simple, homemade food can be. With just a few pantry staples and less than 30 minutes, you can whip up a meal that feels gourmet, tastes incredible, and makes you feel like a pasta pro.

Whether you’re serving it with a delicate butter sauce or a robust tomato ragù, ricotta gnocchi is a dish that delivers comfort, elegance, and flavor—all in one soft, cheesy bite.

So next time you’re looking for a comforting dinner that also impresses, remember: Ricotta Gnocchi isn’t just a recipe—it’s a delicious tradition you can create from scratch, any night of the week.

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