Description
Millionaire Gnocchi with Red Sauce, Herbed Ricotta, and Golden Crispies is a comforting Italian-inspired main course dish featuring tender potato gnocchi sautéed in a flavorful marinara sauce, topped with a creamy herb-infused ricotta and crispy Parmesan breadcrumbs for added texture and richness.
Ingredients
Scale
For the gnocchi and red sauce:
- 1 lb potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cups marinara or tomato basil sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the herbed ricotta:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the golden crispies:
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Make the herbed ricotta: In a small bowl, mix ricotta with chopped basil, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Set aside or chill until ready to serve.
- Make the golden crispies: In a small skillet over medium heat, toast panko breadcrumbs in olive oil or butter for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring often until golden brown. Remove from heat, stir in grated Parmesan cheese and a pinch of salt, then set aside.
- Cook the gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add gnocchi and cook according to package directions, usually 2 to 3 minutes until they float to the surface. Drain well and set aside.
- Assemble the sauce and finish: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add cooked gnocchi and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until lightly golden. Pour in marinara sauce and add crushed red pepper flakes if using. Stir gently to coat gnocchi with sauce and allow to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to heat through.
- Plate and garnish: Spoon gnocchi and sauce into serving bowls. Top each portion with a generous dollop of herbed ricotta and sprinkle with golden crispies. Garnish with extra fresh herbs or Parmesan cheese if desired, then serve immediately.
Notes
- Use plant-based gnocchi and ricotta and omit Parmesan to make this recipe vegan.
- For a richer sauce, stir in a splash of cream to the marinara just before serving.
- Fresh herbs can be swapped with dried herbs if needed, adjusting quantities accordingly.
- Toast breadcrumbs carefully to avoid burning and achieve a perfect golden crunch.
- This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
