Gnocchi di Patate

In my experience, food can bring back memories, and Gnocchi di Patate brings back lost memories for me. 

As a matter of fact, it was my friend who introduced me to this wonderful dish that inspired my love of Italian food. My first bite was soft, buttery, and irresistible.

It wasn’t long after that I made it for my children. To my surprise, they wanted it again the next day.

This dish is super easy to prep and brings you the flavor of Italy right to your house, so try it!

Why Should You Make Gnocchi di Patate

I consider Italian food to be one of the best comfort foods because it brings me so much happiness, be it spaghetti or cheesy pizza. 

But what stands out for me is Gnocchi di Patate: soft, pillowy potato dumplings that melt in the mouth.

The first time I tried it was when a friend made it. The taste was so nice that I knew I had to make it myself, and now, it’s a favorite in my house.

The best thing is how surprisingly easy it is to make at home much better than store-bought and really fun to do with family.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs Russet potatoes
• 1 and a half cups of all-purpose flour
• 1 large egg, beaten
• Salt (1 tsp)

Required Equipment

• Large pot
• Potato masher or ricer
• Fork
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Baking sheet
• Slotted spoon
• Clean towel or parchment paper

How To Make Gnocchi di Patate

Step 1: Cooking the Potatoes

1. Boil salted water in a large pot.
2. Boil potatoes until fork-tender for 45 minutes.
3. Drain off the water after cooking, and let cool for a while.

Step 2: Mash the Potatoes

1. Peel warm potatoes.
2. Mix potatoes until smooth, using a potato masher.

Step 3: Make the Dough

1. Place the mashed potatoes on a clean surface.
2. Sprinkle flour over potatoes and mix well.
3. Create a well in flour and add the beaten eggs & salt.
4. Mix it well with your hand.
5. Need the dough lightly, just working it enough to bind everything together.

Step 4: Shape the Gnocchi

1. Make each dough piece into a long snake about 3/4 inches long. 
2. Cut the rope into one-inch-long pieces.

Step 5: Cooking the Gnocchi

1. In several batches, carefully add the gnocchi to the boiling water. 
2. The gnocchi should be cooked until floating, which takes about 2-3 min. 
3. Use a slotted spoon to pick up each Gnocchi.

Tips for Gnocchi Perfection

• After you boil the potatoes let them sit for a few minutes. You want to avoid wet potatoes as they are sticky and will make the dough stick for too long.
• Try not to add too much flour as it will leave the gnocchi quite dense, which is what you want to avoid.
• Mix the dough fast, as letting the dough lie too long makes it sticky and clogs any work.
• Boil one piece and check if it remains intact. If it breaks, add flour to the dough.
• Parmesan cheese and herbs like parsley will give the gnocchi more flavor and depth.

What to Pair with Gnocchi di Patate

Many different sauces go well with Gnocchi di Patate, it’s hard to pick just one! The kids really enjoyed this dish, especially with the sauce which had a simple tomato basil base and Parmesan cheese. 

If you are after deeper flavor, serve the Gnocchi with a creamy Alfredo sauce or brown butter with sage. If you are looking to add more protein to your meal, then you can serve it with grilled chicken or shrimp.

If you are looking for the Italian experience, then you can pair this recipe with the tasty Cotoletta alla Milanese!

FAQs

Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?

This would go against the concept of the actual recipe and I recommend you use regular potatoes.

How do I store leftover gnocchi?

Gnocchi should go into an airtight container and into the fridge for two days maximum.

Why did my gnocchi turn out tough?

Most likely from using too much flour, or over-kneading. Try using less flour next time, and only knead it until blended. 

Which sauces complement gnocchi best?

Savory sauces would include tomato basil, Alfredo, pesto, or brown butter with sage, they are all super tasty.

Final Thoughts

Gnocchi di Patate is one of my favorite recipes to make and it’s full of Italian flavor and, surprisingly, easy to make. My kids loved it and that’s why it is now a family tradition. 

Try it out and you will realize how easy and fast it is to prepare. If this recipe caught your taste, do not forget to tell your loved ones about it! Be sure to subscribe to my blog to receive more delicious recipes.

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