White Bean Gnocchi Recipe
If you’re craving a comforting, tender, and delightfully pillowy dish, this White Bean Gnocchi Recipe is sure to become your new favorite. Imagine soft gnocchi made from creamy white beans that give each bite a subtle earthiness and a satisfying protein boost. You get a perfect balance of delicate texture and savory flavor that feels both familiar and wonderfully unique. It’s an easy-to-make, cozy meal that proves plant-based ingredients can shine just as bright as any traditional recipe you know and love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are refreshingly simple, each one playing an essential role in crafting the perfect gnocchi. From creamy beans to a touch of flour, they come together to create that signature fluffy yet sturdy texture you’ll adore.
- Canned White Beans: The star ingredient that brings creaminess and protein; cannellini or Great Northern beans work best for smooth gnocchi.
- Flour: Helps bind the dough while keeping gnocchi tender; be ready to adjust the amount based on bean moisture.
- Egg: Acts as a natural binder and adds a little richness for a soft, cohesive dough.
- Olive Oil: Adds a silky richness and helps the dough come together easier.
- Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that bring out the flavors from the inside out.
- Fresh Herbs (Optional): Chopped rosemary or thyme can enhance the dish with aromatic layers if you’re feeling extra.
How to Make White Bean Gnocchi Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Beans
Start by draining and rinsing the canned white beans thoroughly. The key here is getting a beautifully smooth base, so either mash them by hand or pulse in a food processor until they reach a creamy, paste-like consistency. This step is crucial because it determines the texture foundation for your gnocchi dough.
Step 2: Make the Dough
Transfer your whipped bean paste into a large bowl and add the flour, egg, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until a soft dough forms. You might notice it’s a bit sticky at first, but that’s normal—just sprinkle in a little more flour if necessary, stopping as soon as it’s workable. Avoid overmixing to keep your gnocchi light and tender.
Step 3: Roll and Shape the Gnocchi
On a floured surface, roll the dough into a long log about 1-inch thick. Slice this log into bite-sized pieces, roughly one inch each. For that classic gnocchi look, don’t hesitate to roll each piece over the back of a fork to create ridges that help sauces cling beautifully.
Step 4: Cook the Gnocchi
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi in batches, careful not to crowd the pot. When they float to the top, let them cook another minute or two for perfect tenderness. Use a slotted spoon to lift them out gently and set aside.
Step 5: Sauté the Gnocchi
Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet and add the cooked gnocchi. Sauté for about 3–4 minutes until the outsides develop a light golden crisp. This extra step brings texture contrast and that delightful caramelized flavor that will keep everyone coming back for more.
How to Serve White Bean Gnocchi Recipe
Garnishes
A simple drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs can elevate your White Bean Gnocchi Recipe beautifully. Fresh rosemary or thyme adds an herbal lift, while a dusting of Parmesan or a pinch of chili flakes brings more complexity. Garnishes let you make this dish your own every time.
Side Dishes
Pair your gnocchi with a crisp, vibrant green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette or a side of sautéed seasonal vegetables. The balance between creamy gnocchi and fresh, bright sides creates a meal that feels complete, enhancing all the subtle flavors perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your gnocchi in a rustic ceramic bowl with a spoonful of chunky tomato sauce or a creamy mushroom ragout for a hearty touch. You can also add toasted pine nuts or sautéed garlic greens on top for an exciting twist that brings texture and eye-catching color.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to keep the gnocchi and sauce separate if possible to maintain texture and freshness on reheating.
Freezing
Freezing your White Bean Gnocchi Recipe is a fantastic time-saver. Lay the gnocchi pieces on a parchment-lined tray and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months and can be cooked straight from frozen—just add a minute or two to the boiling time.
Reheating
For reheating, gently sauté your gnocchi in a skillet with a touch of olive oil until warmed through and crispy again, or drop frozen gnocchi straight into boiling water until they float. This method revives that freshly-made charm every time.
FAQs
Can I use dried white beans instead of canned?
Absolutely! If you prefer dried beans, soak and cook them until very tender before mashing. Keep in mind that canned beans are convenient and consistent in moisture, making your White Bean Gnocchi Recipe a bit more foolproof.
What flour works best for this gnocchi recipe?
All-purpose flour is ideal because it provides the right balance of structure and tenderness. You could try a gluten-free blend, but results may vary, and you might need to adjust quantities.
Is the egg necessary in this recipe?
The egg acts as a binder to hold the dough together and provides richness. If you want to make it egg-free, you can try a flax egg or add a bit more flour, but the texture may be firmer and less tender.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a few hours in advance and keep it covered tightly in the fridge. Let it come to room temperature briefly before rolling and shaping to avoid cracking.
What sauces pair well with white bean gnocchi?
This gnocchi shines with simple sauces like brown butter and sage, light tomato sauces, or even a garlicky olive oil drizzle. The delicate flavor means you can get creative without overwhelming the dish.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this White Bean Gnocchi Recipe enough for anyone wanting a cozy, homemade meal that’s unexpectedly simple and deeply satisfying. It’s perfect for weeknights or impressing friends with a plant-forward twist on a classic. So grab those beans and get cooking—you’re in for a delicious treat that’s as comforting as it is delightful!
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White Bean Gnocchi Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This White Bean Gnocchi recipe features tender, pillowy gnocchi made primarily from creamy canned white beans, combined with flour, egg, and olive oil for a protein-rich, flavorful dish. Perfectly cooked by boiling and then sautéed to a golden crisp, these gnocchi offer a deliciously light yet satisfying comfort food option that can be customized with fresh herbs and your favorite sauce.
Ingredients
Gnocchi Dough
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans (cannellini or Great Northern), drained and rinsed
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour, plus more as needed
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Optional
- 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (rosemary or thyme), chopped
- Olive oil for sautéing
Instructions
- Prepare the Beans: Drain and rinse the canned white beans thoroughly. Use a food processor to pulse the beans until you achieve a smooth, creamy paste. Alternatively, mash the beans by hand until no lumps remain.
- Make the Dough: Transfer the bean paste to a large mixing bowl. Add flour, egg, olive oil, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix gently until a cohesive dough forms. Adjust with a little more flour if the dough feels sticky, but avoid overworking it.
- Roll and Shape the Gnocchi: On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a log about 1 inch thick. Cut into 1-inch pieces using a knife or bench scraper. Optionally, roll each piece over the back of a fork to create indentations for classic gnocchi texture.
- 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. When the gnocchi float to the surface, allow them to cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove and set aside.
- Sauté the Gnocchi: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cooked gnocchi and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until they develop a golden-brown and slightly crispy exterior on the edges.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the gnocchi hot, drizzled with olive oil or topped with your favorite sauce and fresh herbs. Enjoy the comforting, tender bites of this protein-packed gnocchi.
Notes
- Adjust the flour quantity based on the moisture content of your beans to get the right dough consistency.
- Rolling gnocchi over a fork is optional but adds a traditional texture that helps sauces cling better.
- Use a gentle hand when mixing to avoid tough gnocchi.
- Fresh herbs add great flavor but can be omitted if unavailable.
- Cook gnocchi in batches to prevent sticking and uneven cooking.
- Sautéing after boiling provides a delightful crispy contrast.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
