Parmesan & herb gnocchi

Parmesan & herb gnocchi is a comforting Italian dish featuring tender potato dumplings infused with rich parmesan and fresh herbs. This easy recipe is perfect for any occasion, combining simple ingredients into a satisfying meal.

25 Nov 2025
Cook time 45 min
Prep time 60 min

Ingredients:

5 potatoes
1 tsp salt
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
2 tbsp fresh parsley
1 tbsp chives

Parmesan & Herb Gnocchi is a delightful Italian dish that combines the rich flavors of parmesan cheese with fresh herbs to create a savory and comforting meal. This recipe is easy to follow, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Potatoes:
- Wash and peel the potatoes.
- Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water.
- Add a pinch of salt to the water.
- Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat and cook the potatoes until they are tender, about 15-20 minutes. You should be able to easily pierce them with a fork.

2. Mash the Potatoes:
- Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly until they are easy to handle.
- Use a potato masher or ricer to mash the potatoes until smooth. Avoid leaving any lumps as it will affect the texture of the gnocchi.

3. Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes with the grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, chopped chives, and 1 tsp of salt.
- Mix until all ingredients are well combined. If the mixture feels too sticky, you may dust it lightly with flour to make it more manageable.

4. Form the Gnocchi:
- Divide the dough into several smaller portions for easier handling.
- On a floured surface, roll each portion into a long rope, about 1/2 inch in diameter.
- Cut the rope into 1-inch pieces to form individual gnocchi.
- If desired, roll each piece over the tines of a fork or a gnocchi board to create ridges, which helps the gnocchi hold onto sauces better.

5. Cook the Gnocchi:
- Bring a large saucepan of salted water to a boil.
- Carefully drop the gnocchi into the boiling water in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pot.
- The gnocchi are done when they float to the surface, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked gnocchi to a plate or serving dish, and keep warm while you cook the remaining batches.

6. Serve:
- The gnocchi can be served immediately with your favorite sauce, such as marinara, alfredo, or browned butter with sage.
- Garnish with additional grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.

Parmesan & Herb Gnocchi is a rich and flavorful dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. With its delicate texture and combination of savory parmesan and fresh herbs, it’s a recipe you’ll find yourself returning to time and time again.

Parmesan & herb gnocchi FAQ:

How long should I cook the potatoes for gnocchi?

Boil the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes or until they are tender and easily pierced with a fork. This ensures they are fully cooked and ready for mashing.

What do I do if my gnocchi dough is too sticky?

If the dough feels too sticky, lightly dust it with flour as you work with it. Be careful not to add too much flour, as it can make the gnocchi dense.

How can I tell when the gnocchi are properly cooked?

Gnocchi are done when they float to the surface of the boiling water, typically taking about 2-3 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove them once they rise.

Can I store leftover gnocchi?

Yes, cooked gnocchi can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Freeze uncooked gnocchi on a baking sheet, then transfer to a bag for longer storage, up to 2 months.

What can I substitute for chives in the recipe?

If you don't have chives, you can substitute with finely chopped green onions or shallots, which will provide a similar mild onion flavor.

Cooking Tips:

- Make sure to use starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold for a fluffier gnocchi.

- Avoid over-kneading the dough to prevent the gnocchi from becoming too dense.

- Dust your working surface with flour to prevent the dough from sticking.

- Test one piece of gnocchi in boiling water to ensure it holds its shape before cooking the entire batch.

- Serve immediately with your favorite sauce or a simple drizzle of olive oil and additional parmesan.

Nutrition Facts

4 Servings
Calories 240kcal
Protein 8g
Carbohydrates 45g
Fiber 5g
Sugar 2.15g
Fat 3.07g

Parmesan & herb gnocchi