Gnocchi is a type of Italian pasta made from potato, wheat, or ricotta cheese. They are commonly boiled and served with sauce, but can also be baked or fried. Uncooked gnocchi keeps in the fridge for up to two days, but are best when eaten fresh. If you need to store them for longer, you can make the gnocchi last longer by freezing them for up to three months.
How to store gnocchi in the refrigerator
To store leftover homemade gnocchi in the refrigerator, place them in an airtight plastic food container and refrigerate for up to two days.
How to store gnocchi in the freezer
To freeze a batch of leftover gnocchi dough, make the individual gnocchi dumplings and place them in a freezer-safe ziploc bag or airtight container and freeze for up to three months.
When it comes to freezing gnocchi, there are a few things you need to keep in mind:
- First, make sure the dough balls are well-floured so the individual pieces don’t stick together. Semolina works great for this but regular flour is fine if you don’t have semolina flour.
- Second, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer before freezing to keep the gnocchi separate. Once frozen, you can put them into a bag together for long-term freezer storage.
- And lastly, make sure to label with the storage date the freezer bag or container so you know how long they’ve been in there. Tip: label with an expiration date so anyone in the family knows if it’s still good.
How to cook refrigerated or frozen gnocchi
For refrigerated gnocchi, the best way is to simply cook them in a large pot of boiling water for two to three minutes until the gnocchi float to the surface. You can also reheat them in a sauce, if desired.
Pro tip: Place gnocchi on a paper towel and let it come to room temperature before cooking it.
Leftover gnocchi can also be reheated in the microwave or oven, but boiling is the best method to retain their texture. Serve gnocchi with your favorite sauce and enjoy!
Recipes and more about gnocchi
Gnocchi is an Italian dumpling, a type of pasta that is incredibly versatile both in what it is made from and how it can be served.
Origin of gnocchi
Gnocchi is believed to have originated in the 16th century, though there are many different stories about how they came to be. One popular legend says that an Italian Duke created them as a way to impress his French bride. Whatever their origin story, gnocchi has become a popular dish enjoyed by people all over the world.
We recommend using fresh gnocchi dough, but for a quick and easy delicious meal on busy nights you can also find ready-made gnocchi at grocery stores in the pasta aisle. Check out the refrigerated section of your grocery store and see if they carry ready-made gnocchi or gnocchi dough.
If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy option for your next meal, give gnocchi a try. You won’t be disappointed!
Health benefits of gnocchi
When it comes to health benefits, gnocchi is a good source of complex carbs and fiber. They are also low in fat and calories, making them a healthy option for those watching their weight. Additionally, gnocchi is thought to be helpful in improving digestion and preventing constipation.
Gnocchi Recipes
There are different types of gnocchi, any of which can be served as a main course or as a side dish. Here are a few varieties of this classic Italian pasta you can enjoy at home.
1. Homemade Potato Gnocchi – Step By Step
Emily and Nathan lived in Italy and learned how to cook there – this gnocchi recipe is definitely the real deal! Tip: if you don’t have a potato ricer, you can use a colander and a spoon to push the potatoes through the colander holes.
Homemade Potato Gnocchi - Step by Step
2. Whole Wheat Gnocchi
A delicious whole grain alternative for gnocchi.
Whole Wheat Gnocchi - Maricruz Avalos Kitchen Blog
3. 20-Minute Ricotta Gnocchi
If you already know what a fan of cheese I am, it will come as no surprise that this gnocchi recipe is my favorite.
20-Minute Ricotta Gnocchi
Sauces that go well with gnocchi
Before diving into these delicious sauce recipes, just want to mention that a dribble of olive oil or melted butter and a sprinkle of herbs like basil and oregano make a simply tasty gnocchi dish.
1. The Best Italian-American Tomato Sauce Recipe
Yes, really the best – you’ve got to add this one to your go-to recipes!
The Best Italian-American Tomato Sauce Recipe
2. Marinara Sauce
The classic marinara sauce pairs well with gnocchi.
Marinara Sauce
3. The Perfect Homemade Meat Sauce
Meat lovers will be more than satisfied with this delicious sauce.
The Perfect Homemade Meat Sauce
4. Best Homemade Alfredo Sauce
It’s ok if you want to use this alfredo sauce recipe as much for alfredo dishes as gnocchi – it’s that good!
Best Homemade Alfredo Sauce
5. Best Easy Pesto Recipe
It’s hard to beat the zingy fresh taste of pesto, especially in the summer with basil fresh from the garden.
Best Easy Pesto Recipe
Creamy Mushroom Sauce
Mmm mmm mushrooms! If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, this sauce just might convince you to change your mind.
Creamy Mushroom Sauce {Easy & Versatile}
Creamy Gorgonzola Sauce
Cheeeeeeese… as a sauce! This salty earthy blue cheese adds tons of flavor to gnocchi… or any pasta dish.
Gorgonzola Cream Sauce
Creamy Primavera Sauce
Primavera sauce isn’t just for pasta – it tastes great on gnocchi too!
Creamy Pasta Primavera - Norah Pritchard | Willowcrest Lane
…and keep parmesan cheese handy as a tasty topping for gnocchi any way you make it!
What is your favorite way to serve gnocchi?