Why You’ll Love Ricotta Gnudi al Sugo Recipe
- Soft, fluffy ricotta dumplings with a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Made with simple, wholesome Italian ingredients.
- Fresh tomato sauce perfectly complements the delicate gnudi.
- Naturally vegetarian and easy to adapt with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Great for entertaining or enjoying a cozy homemade Italian dinner.
- The dough can be prepared ahead of time for easier meal planning.
- A wonderful alternative to traditional pasta or gnocchi.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2½ cups whole milk ricotta
- 1 egg (preferably pasture-raised, organic)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt (or sea salt)
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ⅔ cup fresh breadcrumbs (use gluten-free breadcrumbs if desired)
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano DOP cheese
- 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped
- ¼ cup cornmeal (or semolina)
- 1 recipe fresh homemade tomato sauce, for serving
Directions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, egg, kosher salt, black pepper, breadcrumbs, grated Parmigiano Reggiano, and chopped parsley. Mix until well combined. If the mixture feels too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs. If it becomes too dry, stir in a small splash of milk.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight. Chilling helps the mixture firm up, making it easier to shape.
- Wet your hands with water and gently roll the mixture into small dumplings. Arrange them on a tray or work surface lightly dusted with cornmeal or semolina to prevent sticking.
- Warm the fresh tomato sauce in a large sauté pan over medium heat until it reaches a gentle simmer.
- Carefully add the gnudi to the simmering sauce. Cover and cook for 5 to 6 minutes.
- Using a wooden spoon, gently turn the dumplings over. Cover again and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes.
- Remove from the heat and serve immediately with the warm tomato sauce and crusty bread if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 4 servings.
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Chill time: 2 hours
- Cook time: 10 minutes
- Total time: 2 hours 25 minutes
Variations
- Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs to make the recipe gluten-friendly.
- Use semolina instead of cornmeal for coating the dumplings.
- Add chopped fresh basil, thyme, or chives for additional herb flavor.
- Stir a pinch of nutmeg into the ricotta mixture for a traditional Italian touch.
- Serve the gnudi with browned butter and fresh sage instead of tomato sauce.
- Add sautéed spinach to the ricotta mixture for a spinach ricotta gnudi variation.
- Finish with extra grated Parmigiano Reggiano and cracked black pepper before serving.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover gnudi and tomato sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place the gnudi and sauce in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions using short intervals at medium power.
Uncooked gnudi can be shaped and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before cooking.
For longer storage, freeze the shaped uncooked dumplings on a baking tray until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Cook directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
FAQs
What are gnudi?
Gnudi are traditional Italian ricotta dumplings made without a pasta wrapper. Their name means “naked,” referring to ravioli filling served without the pasta.
Can I use store-bought ricotta?
Yes. Whole milk ricotta works best, but if it contains a lot of moisture, drain it first for firmer dumplings.
Why do I need to chill the mixture?
Chilling helps firm up the ricotta mixture, making it easier to shape and preventing the dumplings from falling apart during cooking.
Can I make gnudi ahead of time?
Yes. The mixture can be refrigerated overnight, or the shaped dumplings can be prepared a day in advance.
Can I freeze ricotta gnudi?
Yes. Freeze the uncooked dumplings on a tray first, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
What kind of tomato sauce works best?
A simple homemade fresh tomato sauce made with ripe tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and basil pairs beautifully with the delicate dumplings.
How do I know when the gnudi are cooked?
They should be heated through, lightly firm on the outside, and tender inside after simmering for about 8 to 9 minutes.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and coat the dumplings with gluten-free cornmeal.
What can I serve with ricotta gnudi?
Serve them with crusty bread, a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or additional grated Parmigiano Reggiano.
Why are my gnudi falling apart?
This usually happens if the ricotta is too wet or the mixture wasn’t chilled long enough. Draining the ricotta and allowing adequate chilling time helps create sturdy dumplings.
Conclusion
Ricotta Gnudi al Sugo is a beautiful example of rustic Italian cooking at its finest. These light and tender ricotta dumplings are simple to prepare yet elegant enough for a special meal. Paired with fresh tomato sauce and plenty of Parmigiano Reggiano, this comforting dish delivers authentic Italian flavor in every bite. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or entertaining guests, it’s a timeless recipe that’s sure to impress.
