Gnocchi are fluffy Italian dumplings that offer a delightful twist to your pasta nights. This easy potato gnocchi recipe with just four simple ingredients and two steps will become a favorite in your cozy home repertoire. Perfect for both a weeknight family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to impress without a lot of effort. So let’s get cooking and create these pillowy pockets of goodness together!
**Easy Potato Gnocchi Recipe**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 large russet potatoes
– 1 cup all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
– 1 large egg
– Salt, to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Potatoes:** Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash the potatoes and pierce them all over with a fork. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for about 45-60 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
2. **Peel and Mash the Potatoes:** Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, peel off the skin. Using a potato masher or a ricer, mash the potatoes until smooth and lump-free. It’s important to work with the potatoes while they are still warm for the best consistency.
3. **Create the Dough:** On a clean work surface, place the mashed potatoes in a mound. Make a well in the center and add the flour, egg, and a pinch of salt. Using your hands, gently mix the ingredients together until a dough forms. Be careful not to overwork the dough to keep the gnocchi light and airy.
4. **Form the Gnocchi:** Divide the dough into four equal parts. Roll each part into a long rope, about 1/2 inch in diameter. Cut the ropes into 1-inch pieces, and then gently press the tines of a fork onto each piece to create ridges for the sauce to cling to. This step is optional but traditional for gnocchi.
5. **Cook the Gnocchi:** Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the gnocchi float to the surface. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cooked gnocchi to a plate.
6. **Serve:** Your potato gnocchi are now ready to be enjoyed! You can top them with your favorite sauce, like a homemade tomato basil sauce or a brown butter sage sauce. Don’t forget a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs for that extra touch of flavor.
7. **Storage Tip:** If you have any leftover gnocchi, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply sauté them in a pan with a little butter or olive oil until they are heated through.
Enjoy these homemade potato gnocchi with your loved ones and savor the satisfaction of creating a delicious dish from scratch. The simplicity of this recipe will have you coming back to it time and time again. Happy cooking!
