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Easy Homemade Potato Gnocchi with Parmesan

Rose
This easy homemade potato gnocchi recipe yields tender, fluffy gnocchi infused with Parmesan. Perfect for pairing with marinara, brown butter, or creamy sauces, it’s a versatile and satisfying dish for weeknight or special dinners.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Italian
Servings 6 servings
Calories 230 kcal

Equipment

  • large pot
  • fork or potato ricer
  • clean surface for kneading
  • gnocchi board or fork optional, for ridges
  • slotted spoon
  • skillet optional, for pan-frying

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds starchy potatoes (russet or Yukon Gold)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 0.25 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 to 1.25 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter for pan-frying (optional)
  • additional Parmesan for topping (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Wash potatoes and place in a large pot of cold water with a pinch of salt. Boil for 20–25 minutes until fork-tender. Drain, cool slightly, and peel while warm. Mash thoroughly.
  • Spread mashed potatoes on a surface and season with salt, cayenne, and optional tarragon. Add olive oil, egg yolk, and Parmesan. Mix gently.
  • Gradually knead in flour to form a soft, pliable dough. Add more flour if sticky, avoiding overworking.
  • Divide dough into 4 portions. Roll each into a rope ~¾ inch thick, cut into 1-inch pieces, and optionally roll over fork tines for ridges. Place on a floured tray.
  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Drop gnocchi in batches, stir gently, and cook until they float, ~2–3 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon.
  • Optional: Heat oil or butter in a skillet. Pan-fry cooked gnocchi 2–3 minutes per side until golden. Sprinkle with Parmesan and serve immediately.

Notes

Use starchy potatoes like russet or Yukon Gold for light gnocchi. Handle dough gently to avoid toughness. Freeze uncooked gnocchi in a single layer for future use. Pair with brown butter, marinara, or pesto sauces for best results.

Nutrition

Calories: 230kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 6gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 1.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 220mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 2mg
Keyword gnocchi, homemade pasta, Italian comfort food, potato gnocchi
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