Baked Ricotta Gnocchi

Baked Ricotta Gnocchi offers a cozy, comforting meal that’s as wonderful to look at as it is to eat. This dish dials the comfort factor up to eleven, with pillowy gnocchi made from creamy ricotta, baked to perfection under a blanket of melted mozzarella and rich marinara sauce. The moment you pull this dish from the oven, you’re greeted by the tantalizing aroma of garlic and fresh basil, setting the stage for a delightful dining experience. If you’re searching for a recipe that showcases the simplicity of Italian home cooking and promises to delight your family and friends, look no further. With its step-by-step guidance, you’ll have no trouble whipping this dish up for a warm weeknight dinner or a notable occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The beauty of Baked Ricotta Gnocchi lies in its effortless preparation and the joy it brings to the table. First off, it requires minimal ingredients that are easy to find, making it a fantastic choice for busy cooks. Not only do you get to avoid a lengthy time in the kitchen, but you also receive a dish that everyone in the family will love. It’s a meal that can easily be scaled up for dinner parties or a cozy family feast, and it’s especially comforting – perfect for a chilly evening craving a little culinary warmth.

Ingredients for Baked Ricotta Gnocchi

For this delightful dish, gather the following:

15 oz container ricotta cheese
1 large egg
1 egg yolk
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 1⁄4 cups all-purpose flour
1⁄2 teaspoon salt
1 cup marinara sauce
8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
4-5 fresh basil leaves, julienned

These ingredients come together to create a rich and flavorful pasta alternative that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Step-by-Step Directions for Baked Ricotta Gnocchi

Let’s get started on this scrumptious meal! Begin by placing four paper towels on a large plate and spreading the ricotta cheese evenly over them. This step is key as it helps absorb excess moisture, ensuring your gnocchi has the right texture. Cover the ricotta with another layer of four paper towels and gently press down to extract the moisture.

Next, transfer the drained ricotta to a medium bowl. Add in the egg, egg yolk, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese along with the salt. Mix the ingredients well until they form a homogeneous mixture. Gradually introduce the flour into the mix, half a cup at a time, using a rubber spatula. Stir gently until a sticky dough forms. If the mixture is too wet, don’t hesitate to add more flour, a tablespoon at a time.

Once your dough is ready, lightly flour your workspace. Divide the dough into eight equal pieces, and roll each piece into a long rope about an inch thick. Cut each rope into one-inch wide pieces to shape your gnocchi.

Preheat the oven to 400°F while you boil water in a large pot, adding a pinch of salt. Carefully add the gnocchi to the boiling water. They are ready when they float to the surface, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Drain the gnocchi and toss them with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.

In a casserole dish, spread the gnocchi and cover them with marinara sauce. Top with slices of fresh mozzarella and bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes. For that golden finish, switch to broil for an additional 2 minutes until the cheese becomes bubbling and brown. Finally, garnish with julienned basil for a burst of fresh flavor before serving hot.

Tips & Tricks

To elevate your Baked Ricotta Gnocchi, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or oregano into the ricotta mixture. You can also sneak in some sautéed spinach or roasted red peppers for added color and nutrition. For a delightful crunch, top the dish with breadcrumbs before baking for an extra crispy layer. Additionally, if you find yourself with leftover gnocchi, they freeze beautifully! Just make sure to line them on a baking sheet and freeze them individually before transferring them to a zip-top bag.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Baked Ricotta Gnocchi not only shines as a standalone dish, but it also pairs incredibly well with a simple side salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette. The acidity in the dressing complements the richness of the gnocchi beautifully. You might serve it with crusty garlic bread to soak up any remaining marinara sauce, turning your meal into a complete Italian feast! A glass of sparkling water with a slice of lemon or homemade lemonade would refresh your palate alongside this rich dish.

Nutritional Information

While exact nutritional values can vary, each serving of Baked Ricotta Gnocchi is estimated to contain around 450 calories, depending on specific measurements and portions. This dish is a wonderful source of protein due to the ricotta and egg, along with carbohydrates from the flour. However, if you’re looking to indulge without the guilt, consider using whole wheat flour for a healthier alternative, which adds more fiber to your meal.

Storing Tips & Variations for Baked Ricotta Gnocchi

Want to save some for later? Baked Ricotta Gnocchi can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For prolonged freshness, freeze uncooked gnocchi on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to two months. To reheat, simply bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to your cooking time. You can also experiment with other cheese combinations, using a mix of mozzarella and provolone, or even a sprinkle of blue cheese for an adventurous twist.

Conclusion for Baked Ricotta Gnocchi

Don’t wait another moment to experience the incredible pleasure that comes from making Baked Ricotta Gnocchi. The ease of preparation combined with the luscious flavors is sure to impress both family and guests alike. As soon as you take your first bite, you’ll understand why this dish deserves a permanent spot in your culinary repertoire. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and dive into this deliciously cheesy adventure today!

FAQs

Can I make gnocchi ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the gnocchi ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer. If using frozen, just boil them directly from the freezer.
What can I use instead of ricotta?
If you’re looking for a substitute, cottage cheese can work, but be sure to drain it well. Mashed potatoes could also be a unique alternative for a different texture.
Can this recipe be made vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the ricotta with a vegan ricotta recipe made from blended tofu or cashews, and use flax eggs in place of the egg and egg yolk.
How do I know when the gnocchi is cooked?
The gnocchi is cooked once it floats to the surface of the boiling water, usually taking about 3-4 minutes.
Can I use store-bought marinara?
Yes, store-bought marinara sauce is a great time-saver! Just choose a brand you enjoy or opt for homemade for an extra flavor boost.