Easy Ricotta Gnocchi with Marinara Sauce Recipe

If you are craving a dish that’s comfortingly light yet rich in flavor, this Easy Ricotta Gnocchi with Marinara Sauce recipe is an absolute delight. Featuring pillowy ricotta dumplings paired perfectly with a vibrant, homemade marinara sauce, it’s a fantastic meal that feels special without any fuss. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat, this Ricotta Gnocchi with Marinara Sauce will quickly become a go-to favorite for every occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Light and fluffy texture: The ricotta base creates tender gnocchi that melt in your mouth, unlike heavier potato versions.
• Rich tomato flavor: The homemade marinara sauce balances sweet and savory notes, bringing depth to the dish.
• Quick and easy preparation: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe perfect for cooks of any skill level.
• Customizable to your taste: Easily adapt toppings or mix-ins to suit dietary preferences or what you have on hand.
• Perfect for any meal: Serve it as a hearty appetizer, a comforting main course, or even a festive side dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Ricotta Gnocchi with Marinara Sauce has a unique role, from creating light dumplings to lending bright, savory qualities to the sauce. Using fresh, quality components makes all the difference in taste and texture.

• Ricotta cheese: Use whole milk ricotta for creamy, melt-in-your-mouth gnocchi dough.
• All-purpose flour: Adds just enough structure to hold the delicate dough while keeping it tender.
• Egg yolk: Acts as a natural binder, making the dough easier to handle.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal): Sprinkled in the sauce and on the finished dish for cheesy richness and gooey texture.
• Garlic cloves: Freshly minced for that essential aromatic base in the marinara sauce.
• Canned crushed tomatoes: Provides the bold, fresh tomato flavor needed for a classic marinara sauce.
• Fresh basil leaves: Adds a fragrant, herbal note that makes the sauce pop with freshness.
• Extra virgin olive oil: Used for sautéing garlic and enriching the sauce with smooth, fruity undertones.
• Salt and pepper: Enhances and balances the flavors throughout.
• Smoked turkey bacon: Optional for a smoky, savory boost if you’d like to add a meat element.

Variations for Ricotta Gnocchi with Marinara Sauce

This recipe is wonderfully versatile, so feel free to play around with ingredients based on your preferences or what’s in your pantry. Here are some easy ways to customize your ricotta gnocchi experience.

• Spinach infusion: Finely chop and mix fresh spinach into the gnocchi dough for color and extra nutrients.
• Spicy marinara: Add a pinch of red chili flakes or diced fresh chili to the sauce for a subtle heat.
• Vegan version: Use a plant-based ricotta alternative and skip the egg, replacing it with a plant-based binder like flaxseed mixture.
• Mushroom marinara: Sauté mushrooms with garlic before adding tomatoes for a richer umami flavor.
• Herb-packed: Add finely chopped fresh rosemary or oregano to the gnocchi dough or sauce for extra dimension.

How to Make Ricotta Gnocchi with Marinara Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Ricotta Gnocchi Dough

Start by draining the ricotta cheese gently in a fine sieve or cheesecloth to get rid of excess moisture. Combine the ricotta with the egg yolk and slowly mix in the flour, folding gently until a sticky dough forms. Take care not to overmix to keep the gnocchi tender.

Step 2: Shape the Gnocchi

Lightly flour your work surface and roll the dough into long ropes about 1-inch thick. Cut into bite-sized pieces and, if desired, shape them with a fork to create traditional ridges that help hold the sauce better.

Step 3: Cook the Gnocchi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and gently drop in the gnocchi pieces. They are done when they float to the surface, usually within 2-3 minutes. Scoop them out with a slotted spoon and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Marinara Sauce

In a saucepan, heat extra virgin olive oil over medium heat, then sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the crushed tomatoes, salt, pepper, and a few fresh basil leaves. Simmer gently for 20 minutes to meld the flavors.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Toss the cooked gnocchi into the marinara sauce, allowing each piece to soak up the rich tomato goodness. Serve warm, garnished with shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal) and extra basil if you like extra freshness.

Pro Tips for Making Ricotta Gnocchi with Marinara Sauce

• Drain ricotta well: Removing excess moisture helps prevent watery dough and ensures perfect texture.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic, basil, and high-quality canned tomatoes elevate the sauce immensely.
• Don’t overcook the gnocchi: Floating to the surface signals they’re ready; cooking longer makes them mushy.
• Lightly flour shaping surface: Prevents sticking while keeping gnocchi tender rather than dense.
• Simmer sauce gently: Slow cooking helps deepen the tomato flavors without overpowering the delicate gnocchi.

How to Serve Ricotta Gnocchi with Marinara Sauce

Garnishes

Fresh basil leaves, a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal), and cracked black pepper make perfect garnishes that enhance both flavor and presentation of your gnocchi dish.

Side Dishes

Pair the gnocchi with a crisp green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette or a simple roasted vegetable platter to balance the richness of the sauce and cheese.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in shallow bowls with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a few torn smoked turkey bacon pieces sprinkled on top for an elegant, restaurant-style touch at home.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Ricotta Gnocchi with Marinara Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze uncooked gnocchi by placing them on a parchment-lined tray in a single layer. Once frozen solid, transfer to a resealable bag for up to 2 months. Cook from frozen as usual.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid drying out, adding a splash of water or extra sauce as needed to keep the gnocchi moist and flavorful.

FAQs

Can I make ricotta gnocchi without eggs?

Yes, you can substitute the egg with a plant-based binder such as flaxseed meal mixed with water or a commercial egg replacer, which helps hold the dough together while keeping it tender.

What’s the best ricotta cheese for this recipe?

Whole milk ricotta cheese works best for a creamy texture and fuller flavor. Make sure to drain it well before using to avoid soggy dough.

Can I use fresh tomatoes for the marinara sauce?

Absolutely! Fresh ripe tomatoes can be peeled and crushed to create a vibrant sauce, though canned crushed tomatoes provide convenience and consistent flavor year-round.

How do I prevent gnocchi from sticking together?

Lightly dust the finished gnocchi with flour and cook them in plenty of boiling salted water to minimize sticking. Stir gently to keep them separated during boiling.

Is it possible to make this gluten-free?

Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes a binder like xanthan gum, and adjust the amount as needed to achieve a workable dough consistency.

Final Thoughts

Nothing communicates comfort and care quite like a plate of homemade Ricotta Gnocchi with Marinara Sauce. This recipe brings together simple, wholesome ingredients into a dish that’s both elegant and accessible. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, it promises to impress with its delicate textures and bold flavors. Give it a try you might just discover your new favorite pasta alternative that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!

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