Name: Ricotta Gnocchi with Marinara Sauce
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups fresh whole milk ricotta cheese; 1 large egg; 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal); 1 to 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 28 ounces crushed tomatoes; 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; Additional shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal), to sprinkle; Fresh basil leaves; Olive oil, for drizzling

Discover how easy and delightful it is to prepare Ricotta Gnocchi with Marinara Sauce, a comforting Italian classic made from fresh ricotta cheese and tender potato-based gnocchi, perfectly complemented by a vibrant marinara sauce and topped with melted shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal). This recipe brings together simple ingredients and bold flavors for an unforgettable meal that’s both light and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: Every component shines on its own while blending beautifully for rich, authentic taste.
Quick and Easy to Make: From start to finish, this dish comes together in under an hour, ideal for weeknight dinners.
Light yet Comforting: Ricotta gnocchi is soft and tender, offering a fresh alternative to heavier pasta dishes.
Vegetarian Friendly: Completely meat-free and loaded with fresh vegetables and cheese.
Versatile Recipe: Perfect for customizing with your favorite herbs and spices.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering fresh, quality ingredients is key to making the best Ricotta Gnocchi with Marinara Sauce. Each item plays a unique role, from the creamy ricotta that keeps the gnocchi light to the vibrant tomatoes creating the perfect sauce base.

Ricotta Cheese: Use fresh whole milk ricotta for creamy and fluffy gnocchi texture.
All-Purpose Flour: The binding agent that brings the gnocchi together without making them dense.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (vegetal): Ideal for melting over the finished dish to add gooey richness.
Egg: Helps bind the ingredients and adds structure.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic infuses the marinara sauce with assertive flavor.
Crushed Tomatoes: The base of the marinara, bringing acidity and sweetness.
Olive Oil: Adds a smooth richness to the sauce and helps sauté the garlic.
Fresh Basil: Brightens and completes the sauce with its aromatic presence.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance every element of the dish.

Variations for Ricotta Gnocchi with Marinara Sauce

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable whether you want to tailor it for dietary preferences or simply mix up the flavors, it’s easy to make it your own.

Spinach Addition: Fold in finely chopped spinach to add color and nutrition to the gnocchi dough.
Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for a kick of heat.
Herb Variations: Substitute basil with oregano or rosemary for a different herbal profile.
Vegan Option: Use a plant-based ricotta alternative and skip the egg to make it vegan-friendly.
Mushroom Marinara: Toss sautéed mushrooms into the marinara to deepen the umami flavor.

Easy Ricotta Gnocchi with Marinara Sauce Recipe

How to Make Ricotta Gnocchi with Marinara Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Gnocchi Dough

In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal), and a pinch of salt. Gradually add all-purpose flour until the dough becomes soft but not sticky, ready to be shaped into gnocchi.

Step 2: Shape the Gnocchi

Roll out the dough onto a floured surface into logs about an inch thick, then cut into bite-sized pieces. Optionally, gently press each piece with a fork to create the classic ridged pattern that holds sauce well.

Step 3: Cook the Gnocchi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Drop the gnocchi in batches, cooking until they float to the surface (about 2-3 minutes). Remove them with a slotted spoon and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Marinara Sauce

In a pan, heat olive oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add crushed tomatoes, salt, pepper, and chopped basil. Let it simmer gently for 15 minutes until the sauce thickens and flavors meld.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Gently fold the cooked gnocchi into the marinara sauce, making sure each piece is coated. Transfer to a serving dish, sprinkle generously with shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal), and serve hot.

Pro Tips for Making Ricotta Gnocchi with Marinara Sauce

Don’t Overwork the Dough: Mix just until combined to keep gnocchi tender and fluffy.
Use Fresh Ricotta: For the creamiest texture, drain any excess moisture before use.
Test a Single Gnocchi First: Boil one piece to check texture and adjust flour if too soft or sticky.
Simmer Sauce Low and Slow: This makes the marinara richer and balances acidity.
Serve Immediately: Gnocchi tastes best right after cooking to enjoy its pillowy texture.

How to Serve Ricotta Gnocchi with Marinara Sauce

Garnishes

Fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of extra shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal) lift the dish visually and enhance the flavors. A drizzle of good quality olive oil adds a glossy finish that’s truly inviting.

Side Dishes

Pair this dish with a crisp green salad, garlic roasted vegetables, or warm crusty bread to soak up any leftover marinara sauce. Light sides keep the meal balanced and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in rustic bowls topped with fresh herbs for a cozy meal vibe or plate individually with a few gnocchi neatly arranged and garnished with edible flowers for an elegant touch at dinner parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place cooled gnocchi and sauce in separate airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and texture.

Freezing

Freeze uncooked gnocchi on a lined tray until solid, then transfer to a sealed bag for up to 2 months. Freeze the marinara sauce separately for longer preservation.

Reheating

Reheat gnocchi gently in simmering sauce or quickly boil frozen gnocchi for just a few minutes. Warm the sauce on low heat to avoid burning or separation.

FAQs

Can I make ricotta gnocchi without eggs?

Yes, you can omit the egg to make the gnocchi egg-free, but you may need to adjust the flour slightly to hold the dough together.

What’s the best way to prevent gnocchi from sticking?

Lightly flour your work surface and hands while shaping, and avoid overcrowding the boiling water when cooking.

Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

Absolutely! Using a high-quality store-bought marinara can save time and still taste delicious with the fresh gnocchi.

How do I know when gnocchi are cooked?

They’re done when they float to the surface of the boiling water, which typically takes 2 to 3 minutes.

Can I substitute ricotta with another cheese?

You can try a soft cheese like cottage cheese blended smooth, but fresh ricotta provides the best texture and flavor for gnocchi.

Final Thoughts

This Ricotta Gnocchi with Marinara Sauce recipe offers a beautiful balance of fresh ingredients and comforting textures that will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Its simplicity and deliciousness make it perfect for any occasion, so go ahead and give it a try your taste buds will thank you!

Ricotta Gnocchi with Marinara Sauce

Author: Michael
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Ricotta Gnocchi with Marinara Sauce is a comforting Italian classic made from fresh ricotta cheese and tender potato-based gnocchi, perfectly complemented by a vibrant marinara sauce and topped with melted shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal). This light yet satisfying dish comes together quickly using simple ingredients and bold flavors, making it ideal for weeknight dinners and vegetarian meals.

Instructions

Prepare the Gnocchi Dough: In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal), and a pinch of salt. Gradually add the all-purpose flour until the dough becomes soft but not sticky, suitable for shaping.
Shape the Gnocchi: Roll the dough onto a floured surface into logs about an inch thick. Cut the logs into bite-sized pieces and optionally press each piece gently with a fork to create ridges that help hold the sauce.
Cook the Gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Drop the gnocchi in batches and cook them until they float to the surface, about 2 to 3 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
Make the Marinara Sauce: Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Add crushed tomatoes, salt, pepper, and chopped basil. Let the sauce simmer gently for 15 minutes until thickened and flavors meld.
Combine and Serve: Gently fold the cooked gnocchi into the marinara sauce ensuring each piece is well coated. Transfer to a serving dish, sprinkle generously with shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal), and serve hot.