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Ricotta Gnocchi with Marinara Sauce

Ricotta Gnocchi with Marinara Sauce

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

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.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Gnocchi Dough

  • 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

For the Marinara Sauce

  • 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

For Garnish

  • Additional shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal), to sprinkle
  • Fresh basil leaves
  • Olive oil, for drizzling

Instructions

  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 the all-purpose flour until the dough becomes soft but not sticky, suitable for shaping.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.

Notes

  • Do not overwork the dough to keep gnocchi tender and fluffy.
  • Use fresh ricotta and drain any excess moisture before mixing.
  • Test cook a single gnocchi to check texture; adjust flour as needed.
  • Simmer the sauce on low heat for richer flavor and balanced acidity.
  • Serve gnocchi immediately after cooking for best pillowy texture.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Boiling and Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 480mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg

Keywords: ricotta gnocchi, marinara sauce, vegetarian gnocchi, Italian comfort food, easy weeknight dinner

Find it online: https://classicrecipehub.com/ricotta-gnocchi-with-marinara-sauce/