Baked Ricotta Gnocchi
A delightful twist on the classic Italian dish, Baked Ricotta Gnocchi features fluffy gnocchi baked with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Gnocchi
- 15 oz ricotta cheese The star of the show, making the gnocchi soft and creamy.
- 1 large egg This binding agent gives our gnocchi structure.
- 1 large egg yolk Adds richness and helps in making the dough tender.
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese Nutty and salty, it enhances the overall flavor.
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour Used to form the dough and shape the gnocchi.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt A little seasoning for flavor.
For the Assembly
- 1 cup marinara sauce The base that brings moisture and flavor to the dish.
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced Melts beautifully, providing a creamy top layer.
- 4-5 fresh basil leaves, julienned Adds a burst of fresh flavor and color.
Instructions
Preparation
- Place four paper towels on a large plate. Spread the ricotta onto the paper towels in an even layer. Cover it with another set of four paper towels and press gently to absorb excess moisture.
- Transfer the drained ricotta into a medium bowl and add the large egg, egg yolk, Parmesan cheese, and salt. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
- Gradually incorporate the flour, half a cup at a time, stirring with a rubber spatula until a cohesive dough ball forms. Add more flour if needed, one tablespoon at a time.
- Flour your work surface and place the dough on it. Divide the dough into eight equal pieces, rolling each into a long, 1-inch thick rope. Cut these ropes into 1-inch wide pieces to create the gnocchi.
Cooking
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Boil salted water in a large pot and gently drop the gnocchi in. They will float to the surface in about 3 to 4 minutes, indicating they’re cooked.
- Drain the gnocchi and toss with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- In a casserole dish, place the gnocchi, pour the marinara sauce over them, and top with slices of fresh mozzarella. Bake for 10 minutes, then broil for 2 additional minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden.
- Garnish with julienned basil, serve hot, and enjoy!
Notes
Consider adding freshly cracked black pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra flavor. Sautéing minced garlic in olive oil before adding it to the marinara sauce can enhance the dish's depth. Mix in a little heavy cream for a creamier texture. Reserve some cheese for topping before serving.