Oh my goodness, have I got a treat for you! I can’t even begin to tell you how many times I’ve made Ricotta Gnocchi with Brown Butter in my kitchen. Seriously, it’s become a staple in my household, and every time I serve it, I get the same wide-eyed, amazed reactions. The combination of pillowy gnocchi and the nutty flavor of brown butter is simply a match made in heaven! Trust me, if you’re looking to impress your family or friends (or just treat yourself), this dish is an absolute game-changer.
Why You’ll Love This Ricotta Gnocchi with Brown Butter
- Incredibly Easy to Make: With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll be amazed at how quickly you can whip up this delicious dish!
- Versatile: Customize it with your favorite herbs and toppings for a personalized touch.
- Mouthwatering Taste: The rich, nutty flavor of brown butter elevates the creamy ricotta gnocchi to a whole new level.
- Visually Stunning: Beautifully plated, this dish is sure to impress at any dinner party.
- Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the gnocchi in advance and just brown the butter when you’re ready to serve.
The Secret to Perfect Ricotta Gnocchi
The secret to achieving that perfect, tender bite of gnocchi lies in the ricotta itself! Using high-quality, well-drained ricotta is key. If it’s too watery, your gnocchi will turn out dense and gummy. Trust me, I’ve learned this the hard way! Another tip? Don’t over-knead the dough. You want to combine the ingredients until just mixed; the less you handle it, the fluffier the gnocchi will be. This is a dish that anyone can master with just a little bit of practice!
Rave Reviews from Friends and Followers
“I never thought I could make gnocchi at home! This recipe is so easy, and the flavors are out of this world!” – Sarah K.
“The brown butter adds such a depth of flavor! My family loved it, and I can’t wait to make it again!” – Mark T.
“This is my new go-to recipe for dinner parties. Everyone asks for seconds!” – Jenna L.
Creative Variations to Try
- Herb-Infused Gnocchi: Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley to the dough for extra flavor.
- Cheesy Delight: Mix in some grated Parmesan or pecorino cheese for added richness.
- Vegetable Twist: Incorporate pureed spinach or beets into the gnocchi for a colorful presentation.
- Nutty Add-Ins: Toss in toasted pine nuts or walnuts for extra crunch.
- Bonus: Drizzle with a balsamic reduction for a tangy contrast against the richness of the brown butter.
FAQs – All Your Questions Answered!
Can I use store-bought ricotta? Yes! Just make sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture.
How do I store leftover gnocchi? Place any extras in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze gnocchi? Absolutely! Freeze the uncooked gnocchi in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a bag for up to 3 months.
What if my gnocchi is too sticky? If the dough is too sticky, gradually add a bit more flour until it’s manageable.
How long does it take to cook the gnocchi? Once they float to the top of the boiling water, they’re usually done in about 2-3 minutes!
Storage/Serving Tips
- Store leftover gnocchi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For best results, serve immediately after cooking. The texture is at its best when freshly made.
- If reheating, gently sauté in a little olive oil or butter to regain that delightful texture.
Perfect Occasions for Ricotta Gnocchi with Brown Butter
- Cozy family dinners on a chilly evening.
- Impressive date night meals at home.
- Celebratory gatherings, like birthdays or anniversaries.
- Potlucks where you want to stand out.
- Quick weeknight dinners that feel special.
The Complete Recipe
Thank you for sticking with me! Now, let’s dive into the delicious details of making Ricotta Gnocchi with Brown Butter.
Ricotta Gnocchi with Brown Butter
Ingredients
- 1 cup ricotta cheese, well-drained
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for serving
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Tip: Make sure to use high-quality ricotta for the best flavor and texture. You can also experiment with different types of flour, such as semolina or whole wheat, to change the flavor profile!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, flour, and salt. Mix until a dough forms. Don’t overwork it; just until it’s combined! The goal is to keep it light and fluffy. If it feels too sticky, add a bit more flour.
Step 2: Shape the Gnocchi
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and divide it into 4 sections. Roll each section into a long rope, about 1/2 inch thick. Cut the ropes into 1-inch pieces. To make the classic gnocchi shape, you can gently roll each piece over the tines of a fork or just leave them as is for a rustic look.
Step 3: Cook the Gnocchi
Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle boil. Carefully drop the gnocchi into the water, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Cook in batches if necessary. Once they float to the surface, they’re ready! Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a plate.
Step 4: Make the Brown Butter
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Allow it to cook until it turns a beautiful golden brown and has a nutty aroma, about 5 minutes. Keep an eye on it, as it can burn quickly! Once browned, toss in the cooked gnocchi and gently coat them in the butter.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Plate the gnocchi, drizzle with any remaining brown butter, and finish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and herbs if desired. Your culinary masterpiece is ready to be devoured!
Nutrition Info: Approximately 300 calories per serving (4 servings total), depending on portion sizes and additional toppings.
Extra Guidance: To impress your guests even more, consider serving alongside a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. It cuts through the richness of the gnocchi beautifully!
Final Thoughts
So there you have it! Ricotta Gnocchi with Brown Butter is not just a recipe; it’s an experience. This dish brings warmth and comfort to any table, and it’s sure to wow anyone who tries it. I encourage you to give it a go — you won’t regret it! The joy of creating something so delicious at home is unparalleled. Happy cooking!
