Cheese Gnocchi: Perfect Sauce Pairings For A Flavorful Dish

Gnocchi is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sauces. While it is often served with tomato-based sauces, there are numerous other options to explore. For instance, a simple yet delectable combination is a sauce made with basil and tomato, two of Italy's finest ingredients. Another classic option is Gnocchi alla Sorrentina, which features a tomato sauce with chunks of fresh mozzarella and basil. For a more indulgent option, a creamy Gorgonzola sauce or a Fontina cheese sauce are excellent choices. If you're feeling adventurous, you could try unique pairings such as a summer courgette and mint pesto, a Thai-style peanut sauce, or even a rose sauce.

Sage and butter sauce

A classic combination, sage and butter sauce is a perfect pairing for gnocchi. Known as "burro e salvia" in Italian, this sauce was extolled by the Romans for its medicinal properties, believed to aid in the digestion of fat-laden meats.

Ingredients:

• Butter
• Sage
• Gnocchi
• Parmesan Cheese (optional)

Method:

Start by bringing a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook until they float, which should take around 2-3 minutes. Drain the water and set the gnocchi aside.

In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until softened and golden brown. Stir in sage and a pinch of salt. You can use fresh or dried sage, but it is recommended to use fresh for the best flavor. The general rule of thumb is to use 1/2 teaspoon of dried sage for every 1 teaspoon of fresh sage.

Once the butter is browned and fragrant, add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet, along with some grated Parmesan cheese (if using). Toss gently to combine and ensure everything is coated evenly.

Serve the gnocchi with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top.

Tips:

For an extra crispy texture, you can pan-fry the gnocchi in butter or oil until golden brown instead of boiling them. This method gives the gnocchi a crispy exterior and a tender, pillowy interior.

Additionally, you can elevate the sauce by browning the butter. Simply heat the butter and sage together until the butter turns golden brown and emits a nutty aroma. This adds a delicious nutty flavor dimension to the dish.

Feel free to experiment with adding other ingredients to the sauce, such as garlic powder, parsley, or shaved Parmesan cheese.

Enjoy your cheese gnocchi with sage and butter sauce!

Tomato-based sauces

Tomato and Basil Sauce

This classic Italian combination is simple yet delectable and pairs well with almost any pasta shape, including gnocchi. The freshness of the basil added to the sauce while cooking enhances the taste of the tomatoes. The simplicity of this sauce is typical of Italian cooking, where a short list of well-paired, quality ingredients and simple instructions shine.

Gnocchi alla Sorrentina

Gnocchi alla Sorrentina is a classic dish from Sorrento, a town on Italy's west coast near Naples. It consists of gnocchi covered in a tomato sauce with chunks of melted fresh mozzarella and sprinkled with fresh basil. This dish is simple to prepare but decadent and delicious.

Chunky Tomato and Herb Sauce

A thick, chunky tomato and herb sauce, similar to a marinara sauce, pairs well with cheese gnocchi. This vibrant red sauce is not only for pizza and pasta but is also great for dipping. Try skillet cheese gnocchi with this sauce for an easy and kid-approved meal.

Tomato Cream Sauce

For a sweet and savoury option, a tomato cream sauce can be prepared by doctoring up a jar of marinara sauce. This sauce is a dairy indulgence that will complement the cheese gnocchi.

Gnocchi with Pumpkin and Whipped Ricotta

Making the gnocchi and nutty pesto from scratch and serving them on a bed of creamy ricotta makes for an impressive meal. This option includes a tomato-based pesto, which will complement the cheese gnocchi.

Creamy sauces

Gnocchi is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sauces, including creamy options. Here are some creamy sauce ideas for your cheese gnocchi:

Fontina Cheese Sauce

Fontina cheese, a nutty and earthy variety from the Italian region of Valle D'Aosta, is the star of this sauce. Its excellent melting properties make it ideal for creating a rich and creamy sauce without the need for a roux. The sauce is flavoured with black pepper and nutmeg, adding warmth and a subtle spiciness to the dish. This sauce is particularly well-suited to potato gnocchi, as the cheese's earthy and nutty notes complement the mild sweetness of the potatoes.

Gorgonzola Sauce

For a tangy and creamy sauce, a combination of heavy cream, white wine, and crumbly, aged Gorgonzola cheese is a perfect match for the pillowy texture of gnocchi. The sauce is seasoned with salt, pepper, and nutmeg, creating a well-rounded and savoury dish.

Parmigiano Reggiano and Sage Cream

This sauce is a decadent pairing for your cheese gnocchi. It combines grated Parmigiano Reggiano, fresh sage, and cream. The rich, fruity profile of Parmigiano Reggiano blends beautifully with the sweet and earthy flavour of sage. This sauce will add a creamy and savoury dimension to your gnocchi dish.

Mornay Cheese Sauce

Indulge in this classic French sauce, also known as "Sauce Mornay." Chef Gabe Garcia elevates this sauce by incorporating blue cheese, creating a rich and indulgent experience for your gnocchi. The combination of béchamel, egg yolk, blue cheese, salt, and pepper results in a creamy and savoury dish that is sure to impress.

Creamy Mushroom Gnocchi

For a vegetarian option, try a creamy mushroom gnocchi. Sauté meaty mushrooms in oil or butter until they develop a savoury, umami flavour. Combine this with cream, milk, and cheese for a decadent and savoury dish.

These creamy sauce options will elevate your cheese gnocchi, providing a range of flavour profiles to suit different tastes and preferences.

Pesto

If you want to make a creamy pesto sauce, you can add heavy cream, and whisk in homemade fresh basil pesto. For extra flavor, you can also add sundried tomatoes cooked in their oil. This sauce pairs well with potato gnocchi, and can be topped with Parmesan or vegetarian hard cheese.

A simple basil pesto sauce can be made by combining basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan, olive oil, and seasoning in a food processor or blender. The gnocchi can then be pan-fried in olive oil until golden brown and crispy, before being tossed with the pesto.

Meat-based sauces

Gnocchi is a versatile dish that pairs well with various meat-based sauces. Here are some meat-based sauce options to consider for your cheese gnocchi:

One-Pot Meat Sauce

This sauce is a simple, yet flavourful option that cooks in one pot along with the gnocchi. The recipe includes ground beef, onion, garlic, marinara sauce, tomato paste, sugar, and salt and pepper to taste. It's a convenient and tasty choice for a meat-based sauce.

Beef and Barolo Wine Ragù

For a heartier option, consider a beef and red wine ragù. This sauce is slow-cooked, allowing the flavours to develop and create a comforting dish. The recipe calls for beef shin, which has a high amount of connective tissue that breaks down during slow cooking, resulting in a tender texture. This sauce is an excellent choice for a rich and indulgent meal.

Aromatic Duck & Taggiasche Olive Ragù

This unique sauce combines savoury duck leg meat with the slightly sweet and nutty flavour of Taggiasche olives. Like the previous sauce, this one also benefits from slow cooking, allowing the flavours to meld together. It's an elegant and aromatic option for your cheese gnocchi.

Slow Cooker Italian Beef

If you're looking for a convenient option, slow cooker Italian beef is a great choice. This recipe allows you to prepare a tasty meal with minimal effort. Simply combine the ingredients in a slow cooker and let it cook while you go about your day. It's an excellent option for busy days when you crave a comforting dish.

Cheesy Gnocchi with Spinach and Sausage

This recipe is a quick and easy option, ready in just 15 minutes. It combines spinach, sausage, and cheese for a flavourful and satisfying meal. It's a great choice for a weeknight dinner when you're short on time but still want something delicious.

These meat-based sauce options offer a range of flavours and cooking methods to pair with your cheese gnocchi. Whether you're looking for a convenient one-pot meal or a slow-cooked indulgent dish, these sauces will surely elevate your gnocchi experience.

Frequently asked questions