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    Home » Ingredients » Starchy Vegetables

    13 Easy Authentic Homemade Italian Gnocchi Recipes

    Published: Nov 25, 2020 · Modified: Oct 15, 2023. This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my disclosure policy.

    These sweet potato gnocchi are definitely a must-have for the holidays, the color, the flavor, everything fits with the holiday season.
    Chestnut gnocchi are perfect this time of the year when chestnuts are in season and fresh.
    If you have never eaten purple potatoes, you need to find them now! Their color is so beautiful, the taste slightly nuttier than regular potatoes.
    13 classic Italian gnocchi recipes PIN
    Italian gnocchi recipes pin

    Italian gnocchi recipes offer endless variety and flavors. Originating from Northern Italy, these small, pillowy dumplings have been a staple at the Italian dinner table for centuries. Initially made from simple ingredients like flour and water, gnocchi has evolved into a dish that can be enjoyed in different ways, from the classic Italian potato gnocchi to unique variations like Gnocchi alla Romana, gnudi, canederli or gnocco fritto. In this article, we'll discover that Italian gnocchi recipes are not limited to potatoes. We'll delve into 13 authentic Italian gnocchi variations showcasing the versatility of this name and its rich culinary history.

    Jump to:
    • History of Italian gnocchi
    • Variety of gnocchi recipes
    • Conclusion

    History of Italian gnocchi

    Those delightful little dumplings that grace dinner tables across Italy and beyond, have a history as rich and varied as the sauces accompanying them.

    The word "gnocchi" has ancient roots, likely originating from the Lombard term "knohhil," which refers to a knot of wood.

    This term evolved as it journeyed south, becoming "gnocco" or "gnocchi" in the Veneto and Po Valley regions by the second millennium.

    Here, it came to signify morsels of pasta resembling wooden knots.

    Originally a staple of peasant cuisine, particularly in Northern Italy, gnocchi were simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary.

    Early recipes from the 14th and 15th centuries were characterized by their absolute simplicity: flour or grated bread mixed with cheese or egg yolks, shaped into small dumplings and boiled.

    These humble beginnings make the dish's evolution all the more fascinating.

    By the late 19th century, as noted by Pellegrino Artusi in his seminal work "Science in the Kitchen and the Art of Eating Well," gnocchi had ascended from the realm of poor Italian food to a staple of bourgeois Italian cuisine.

    mixed vegan potatoes gnocchi

    Variety of gnocchi recipes

    Today, the "gnocchi family is numerous," as Artusi aptly stated.

    From the authentic Italian potato gnocchi that has become a family favorite, to the pillowy spinach ricotta gnocchi and the vibrant Semolina gnocchi alla Romana, there's a version for every palate and occasion.

    Whether you're crafting homemade gnocchi from scratch or opting for store-bought gnocchi for easy dinners, the possibilities are endless.

    You can serve them as a first course, in the traditional Italian way, or even as a side dish on special occasions.

    To find out more how Italian structure their menus, you can read the article: Sunday dinner: a 6 meal courses.

    With a variety of different sauces—from brown butter to heavy cream and Italian sausage—all the authentic Italian gnocchi recipes can be dressed up or down to suit any dinner table.

    1. Authentic Italian Potato Gnocchi

    Authentic Italian Potato Gnocchi is a classic dish from Northern Italy. These homemade dumplings are a family favorite made with old potatoes and simple ingredients. While some recipes include egg, I'm a firm believer in the no-egg version for tender, authentic gnocchi. Perfect for special occasions or easy dinners, this dish pairs well with your favorite sauce. The can be serve with meat ragu sauce or tomato sauce, mozzarella and fresh basil to make the classic gnocchi alla Sorrentina

    📋 How To Make Italian Gnocchi
    This authentic Italian gnocchi recipe is made with only 2 ingredients: boiled potatoes and flour, no eggs. Gnocchi are classic Italian dumplings served as a pasta dish primo piatto. While you can buy them already made, try making them from scratch without eggs to really appreciate the taste of the potatoes.
    Check out this recipe
    Firm vs fluffy gnocchi

    2. Light and Fluffy Potato Gnocchi

    These fresh potato gnocchi are a culinary gem, lighter and more tender than traditional versions thanks to using less flour. Completely egg-free, they let the authentic potato flavor take center stage. Their smaller size makes them ideal for soaking up your best gnocchi sauce, especially more delicate ones like pesto or truffle. An easy gnocchi recipe that delivers the best in Italian dishes.

    📋Light and Fluffy Italian Homemade Gnocchi
    The traditional Italian homemade gnocchi are light, fluffy, they melt in your mouth and you can actually taste the potatoes. No eggs, they are vegan ! #yourguardianchef #italianrecipe #vegan
    Check out this recipe
    Fluffy Italian potato gnocchi

    3. Creamy Truffle Gnocchi

    Truffle Potato Gnocchi is a culinary masterpiece that brings a touch of luxury to your dinner table. This dish takes the beloved Italian classic to new heights by incorporating the rich, earthy aroma of truffles. While the gnocchi themselves are tender and delicate, the truffle sauce adds a layer of complexity that makes this dish truly special. Perfect for those special occasions when you want to impress, this recipe showcases the beauty of Italian cuisine: simple ingredients, executed to perfection, resulting in a dish that's unforgettable. Ideal for a first course that sets the tone for an elegant meal.

    📋Creamy Truffle Gnocchi With Parmesan Sauce Recipe
    Creamy truffle gnocchi is a fancy dish for a special occasion and doesn't have to be complicated or expensive. You can make these Italian potato gnocchi from scratch or buy them freshly made. Combine the pillowy potato dumplings with this creamy sauce mixed with black or white truffles and plenty of Parmesan cheese, and serve them as a side dish or primo piatto. They make such a classy meal that your friends and family will welcome the special celebration.
    Check out this recipe
    Creamy truffle gnocchi served in a dish

    4. Chestnut Gnocchi

    These vegan Chestnut Gnocchi offer a unique twist to the classic Italian dish. Made with a blend of chestnuts and potatoes, they bring a nutty richness that's perfect for the colder months. The recipe is egg-free, aligning with vegan dietary preferences. The chestnuts not only add flavor but also contribute to the gnocchi's delicate texture. Ideal for special occasions or a cozy dinner, these gnocchi pair beautifully with a simple brown butter sauce or your favorite sauce, elevating your Italian cuisine experience.

    📋 Italian Homemade Vegan Chestnut Gnocchi With Butter
    ​Chestnut Gnocchi is an authentic Italian gnocchi recipe that brings the essence of the Italian Alps right to your dinner table. Made with just three simple ingredients and without the use of eggs, these pillowy dumplings are a world apart from the heavier, store-bought gnocchi you may be accustomed to. Light, fluffy, and bursting with the nutty flavor of fresh chestnuts and potatoes, they're the perfect dish to elevate any dinner party to something truly special.
    Check out this recipe
    chestnut gnocchi

    5. Sweet Potato Gnocchi

    Sweet Potato Gnocchi brings a unique flair to the classic homemade potato gnocchi, featuring vibrant color and natural sweetness. Made from fresh sweet potatoes, this authentic Italian recipe results in tender, pillowy gnocchi that stands out in both flavor and appearance. The dish offers a delightful alternative to traditional gnocchi, adding a splash of color and a hint of sweetness to your dinner table. It's a good gnocchi choice for those looking to try something different yet authentically Italian.

    📋 Authentic Italian Homemade Vegan Sweet Potato Gnocchi
    Sweet Potato Gnocchi is a delightful twist on traditional Italian gnocchi, offering an authentic and innovative culinary experience. Made with just three simple ingredients and no eggs, these homemade sweet potato gnocchi are a world apart from what you'll find in stores. Light, pillowy, and irresistibly fluffy, they capture sweet potatoes' rich, earthy essence, making them a standout choice for any dinner party or festive gathering.
    Check out this recipe
    Sweet potato gnocchi

    6. Purple Potato Gnocchi

    These Purple Potato Gnocchi offer a unique twist on a classic Italian dish. Made with vibrant purple potatoes, these homemade gnocchi bring a nutty flavor and stunning color to the dinner table. Ideal for special occasions, they're a delightful way to elevate a simple ingredient into something extraordinary.

    📋 Italian Homemade Vegan Purple Potato Gnocchi
    Purple Potato Gnocchi takes traditional Italian cuisine to an all-new level of unique sophistication. Crafted with just three ingredients and no eggs, these little dumplings are a delightful departure from the store-bought gnocchi you might be familiar with. Light as air and pillowy soft, they offer a unique taste experience, capturing the essence of vibrant purple potatoes in every bite. Their striking color and exceptional flavor make them a show-stopping addition to any dinner party.
    Check out this recipe
    purple potato gnocchi

    7. Pumpkin Gnocchi

    These pumpkin gnocchi are a vegan delight, perfect for special occasions like Thanksgiving. They're made with a unique blend of pumpkin and potatoes, and the sauce is a festive mix of brown butter, cinnamon, and walnuts. The gnocchi are egg-free and ricotta-free, making them a great vegan option. They can also serve as a flavorful side dish, pairing well with turkey and cranberry sauce.

    📋Pumpkin Gnocchi With Cinnamon And Brown Butter
    Pumpkin Gnocchi is a delightful twist on traditional gnocchi that captures the essence of Italian culinary artistry. This authentic Italian recipe requires just three ingredients and no eggs, setting it apart from the store-bought versions. These pillowy dumplings are small, light, and fluffy, offering a burst of genuine pumpkin flavor that can elevate any dinner party to a memorable occasion.
    Check out this recipe
    pumpkin gnocchi seasoned with cinnamon and walnuts

    8. Butternut Squash Gnocchi

    coming up

    9. Spinach Ricotta Gnocchi (Gnudi or Malfatti)

    These spinach ricotta gnocchi, also known as gnudi, offer a delicate twist to traditional Italian dishes. Made with a blend of creamy ricotta and fresh spinach, they're a lighter, more tender alternative to potato-based gnocchi. This easy gnocchi recipe is perfect for those who love a dish that's as flavorful as it is elegant. Ideal for pairing with simple sauces to let their unique texture and taste shine.

    📋 Ricotta Spinach Gnudi
    Ricotta spinach Gnudi, also known as Malfatti, are pillowy gnocchi made with spinach and ricotta, no potatoes. Their names Gnudi "Naked" or Malfatti "Badly Made" refer to the fact that they are made only with the filling of spinach ricotta ravioli, without the pasta around it. They are boiled like gnocchi and then seasoned with melted butter flavored with sage.
    Check out this recipe
    Malfatti Ricotta Spinach Gnudi

    10. Semolina Gnocchi (Gnocchi alla Romana)

    Gnocchi alla Romana offers a delightful twist on traditional gnocchi, made from coarse durum wheat semolina instead of potatoes. These round patties are generously topped with cheese and baked to achieve a crispy exterior while maintaining a tender interior. Unlike potato-based gnocchi, these are easier to make and have a consistency similar to polenta. Perfect as a side dish for stews or roasts, they absorb gravies and sauces, enhancing their rich texture. A true nod to Roman times, this dish is an authentic Italian culinary experience.

    📋 Semolina Gnocchi (Gnocchi Alla Romana)
    Semolina Gnocchi alla Romana are round patties of coarse durum wheat semolina topped with abundant cheese and baked. They form a crispy top but remain tender inside. The authentic recipe uses "Semolina", not semolina flour, which is very different. They are not like regular potatoes gnocchi; they are much easier to make with a consistency similar to polenta.
    Check out this recipe
    Gnocchi alla Romana semolina gnocchi

    11. Bread Gnocchi (Canederli)

    Canederli, also known as bread gnocchi, are a comforting dish hailing from South Tyrol. Made from stale bread, milk, and speck, these hearty dumplings are a staple in Italian cucina povera. Whether served in a rich stock or with melted butter, they offer a satisfying and traditional Italian dining experience.

    📋 Italian Bread Dumplings Recipe (Knödel)
    These Canederli are Italian bread dumplings originally from South Tyrol in Northern Italy, a recipe also known as Knödel in the German language. They are big bread dumplings boiled in stock made with stale bread mixed with milk, eggs, and speck, a cured smoked pork typical of the region. Round-shaped the size of a small orange, these bread gnocchi can be served in stock or with melted butter. This Canederli recipe perfectly exemplifies a sustainable, frugal meal from Italy's cucina povera tradition.
    Check out this recipe
    Canederli bread gnocchi

    12. Parisian Gnocchi

    Parisian gnocchi offers a unique take on the classic dish. Made from choux pastry and gruyere cheese, these gnocchi are boiled, and then baked. The result is a light, fluffy interior with a slightly crispy top. They're perfect for dinner parties since you can prepare them in advance. This recipe gives you a different, yet delicious, way to enjoy gnocchi.

    📋Gnocchi Parisienne (Parisian Gnocchi)
    Parisian gnocchi, in french called gnocchi a la Parisienne, are very different from the Italian potato gnocchi. Fluffy and light, these pillowy cheesy doughs are made with savory choux pastry mixed with gruyere cheese, no potatoes. Like the Italian gnocchi, they are boiled in water, then baked in the oven and topped with more butter, sage and cheese. A scrumptious dish for a fancy dinner.
    Check out this recipe

    13. Gnocco Fritto

    Gnocco Fritto is a classic Italian appetizer hailing from Emilia Romagna. Unlike traditional gnocchi, this dish features light and airy fried dough made from simple ingredients like flour, water, and lard. Often shaped into small diamonds or rectangles, it's fried to golden perfection. Ideal as a starter, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of cold cuts and cheeses, embodying the versatility and charm of Emilian cuisine.

    📋 Gnocco Fritto Dough Recipe - Fried Italian Street Food
    Gnocco fritto, a delicious appetizer from Emilia Romagna, is a classic Italian dish. A light and airy fried dough that has gained popularity across the country. This versatile and delicious Gnocco fritto dough is prepared using simple ingredients like flour, water, lard, and a leavening agent. Soft and puffy, it is often served alongside a variety of cold cuts and cheeses, making it an ideal and delightful starter.
    Check out this recipe
    Gnocco Fritto Dough Recipe

    Conclusion

    In this journey through Italian gnocchi, we've discovered a rich tapestry of flavors and styles, far beyond the classic potato version.

    From the luxurious Creamy Truffle Gnocchi to the unique Gnocco Fritto, there's a gnocchi for every taste and occasion.

    Whether you're new to gnocchi or a seasoned fan, these 13 authentic recipes offer a diverse and delicious way to enjoy this Italian staple.

    If you are making these Authentic Italian gnocchi recipes, leave your comment below I would like to hear from you. You can find more delicious ideas if you FOLLOW ME on Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest and Instagram or sign up to my newsletter.

    More Starchy Vegetables

    • Easy Crispy Italian Roasted Potatoes Recipe
      Easy Crispy Italian Roasted Potatoes Recipe
    • chestnut gnocchi
      Italian Homemade Vegan Chestnut Gnocchi With Butter
    • Sweet potato gnocchi
      Authentic Italian Homemade Vegan Sweet Potato Gnocchi
    • purple potato gnocchi
      Italian Homemade Vegan Purple Potato Gnocchi

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    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Shanna

      November 25, 2020 at 6:59 pm

      5 stars
      This was so clever to use different types of potatoes.

      Reply
      • Laura

        November 26, 2020 at 4:51 am

        Thank you, I do love the different colors

        Reply
    2. Angela

      November 25, 2020 at 7:11 pm

      5 stars
      So much great information here. You take the guess work out of making gnocchi.

      Reply
      • Laura

        November 26, 2020 at 4:52 am

        Thank you, they are easy to make once the steps are clear

        Reply
    3. Beth

      November 25, 2020 at 7:50 pm

      5 stars
      This looks fantastic and so delicious! I can't wait to give this a try! My family is going to love this!

      Reply
      • Laura

        November 26, 2020 at 4:52 am

        I am sure they will. Thank you

        Reply
    4. Emily Liao

      November 25, 2020 at 8:30 pm

      5 stars
      My gnocchi turned out perfectly! So soft and chewy 😉

      Reply
      • Laura

        November 26, 2020 at 4:52 am

        So glad to hear, thank you for your feedback

        Reply
    5. Bintu | Recipes From A Pantry

      November 25, 2020 at 8:46 pm

      5 stars
      Now I am craving a bowl of gnocchi! These rainbow gnocchis all look so good and I love that they're all completely vegan too!

      Reply
      • Laura

        November 26, 2020 at 4:53 am

        Thank you, yes totally vegan

        Reply

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    Laura Giunta Tobin

    Hi, I’m Laura. Welcome to my blog! While many talk about Italian food, I’ve lived it firsthand. Here, I share real Italian home cooking, just as it’s made in Italy. Won’t you join me?

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