Ricotta gnocchi with butter

Ricotta gnocchi with butter combines creamy ricotta and feta with rich brown butter for a comforting Italian dish. It's simple to make and perfect for any dinner occasion.

04 Jan 2026
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup feta cheese
1 egg
salt & pepper to taste
1/2 cup butter

Ricotta gnocchi with butter is an exquisite yet simple dish that brings together the creamy richness of ricotta and feta with the nutty flavor of brown butter and the fresh, aromatic notes of basil. This delicate Italian recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner at home or an elegant dinner party. Follow this guide to create a delightful meal that will impress your family and friends.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Gnocchi Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, feta cheese, and egg. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly blended and the mixture is smooth.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Remember, feta can be quite salty, so taste before adding additional salt.

2. Form the Gnocchi:
- On a lightly floured surface, scoop small portions of the mixture and gently roll into small balls or oval shapes to form the gnocchi. If the dough is too sticky, you can lightly dust your hands with flour to make handling easier.
- Set the formed gnocchi aside on a floured tray to prevent sticking.

3. Cook the Gnocchi:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle boil. Carefully drop the gnocchi into the boiling water in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Cook the gnocchi until they float to the surface, which should take about 2-4 minutes. Once they float, let them cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to ensure they are cooked through.
- Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cooked gnocchi to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess water.

4. Prepare the Butter:
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Let it cook, swirling the pan occasionally, until it turns a golden brown and develops a nutty aroma. Be careful not to let it burn.
- (Optional) If you wish to add a nice crispy texture and fragrant flavor, add fresh basil leaves to the skillet during the last minute of browning the butter. The basil will crisp up quickly.

5. Combine and Serve:
- Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet with the brown butter. Toss gently to coat the gnocchi in the butter and allow them to crisp slightly on the outside, about 1-2 minutes.
- Transfer the gnocchi to serving plates and spoon any remaining brown butter from the skillet over the top.
- Garnish with crispy basil leaves if using, and an additional sprinkle of freshly ground pepper or grated cheese if desired.

6. Enjoy:
- Serve immediately while hot. Enjoy your delicious Ricotta Gnocchi with Butter!

And there you have it—a delightful plate of Ricotta gnocchi with brown butter & crisp basil. The creamy gnocchi combined with the nutty, aromatic brown butter and crisp basil leaves create a harmony of flavors that is both comforting and sophisticated. This dish isn't just simple to make but also provides a beautiful centerpiece for any dining occasion. Enjoy!

Ricotta gnocchi with butter FAQ:

How long do I cook the gnocchi?

Cook the gnocchi in boiling salted water for about 2-4 minutes or until they float to the surface. Once they float, let them cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to ensure they're fully cooked.

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

If the gnocchi dough is too sticky, lightly dust your hands and the work surface with flour to make it easier to handle. You can also add a small amount of flour to the mixture while forming the gnocchi.

Can I substitute ricotta cheese for other types of cheese?

You can substitute ricotta cheese with mascarpone for a richer texture, or cottage cheese for a lighter version. However, this may alter the flavor and texture slightly.

How should I store leftover gnocchi?

Store any leftover cooked gnocchi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a bit of butter to maintain texture.

What types of butter can I use for the sauce?

For the brown butter sauce, use unsalted butter to have better control over seasoning. Avoid margarine, as it won't achieve the desired nutty flavor.

Tips:

- Ensure the ricotta cheese is well-drained to avoid soggy gnocchi.

- Don't overcrowd the pan when browning the butter to achieve an even, nutty flavor.

- Use fresh basil leaves for the best flavor and aroma.

- Season the gnocchi mixture and butter sauce adequately for a balanced taste.

- Be gentle when mixing and forming the gnocchi to maintain a light and fluffy texture.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 380kcal
Protein 12g
Carbohydrates 4.21g
Fiber 0.00g
Sugar 0.36g
Fat 36g

Ricotta gnocchi with butter