Gnudi, often referred to as the lighter, fluffier cousin of gnocchi, is a delightful Italian dish that brings together the comforting flavors of cheese and the simplicity of pasta. This Gnudi (Cottage Cheese) Recipe is a game-changer for those who love the creamy texture of cottage cheese and the rich taste of freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano. With its tender bites and a luscious marinara sauce, this dish is perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion.

Imagine taking a forkful of these delicate dumplings, topped with a homemade marinara sauce and a sprinkle of fresh basil. The combination of flavors is sure to impress anyone at your dining table. Let’s dive into why this recipe deserves a spot in your cooking repertoire.

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

This Gnudi (Cottage Cheese) Recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Here are a few reasons why it deserves to be made again and again:

Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, you can have a gourmet meal ready in no time.
Healthy Comfort Food: Using cottage cheese as a base adds protein and reduces heaviness, making it a healthier alternative to traditional pasta dishes.
Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe by adding your favorite herbs or spices.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week.

The Ingredient Lineup

Gathering the right ingredients is key to achieving the perfect gnudi. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 cup 2% cottage cheese: I love Good Culture for its creamy texture. Make sure to drain it well.
½ cup Parmesan cheese: You can also use Pecorino Romano, freshly grated for the best flavor.
1 large egg yolk: This helps bind the ingredients together.
½ teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for enhancing the overall flavor.
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds a hint of spice.
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg: A secret ingredient that brings warmth and depth.
¾ cup plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Plus more for dusting as needed.
1 batch marinara sauce: Use homemade or a good-quality jarred sauce for ease.
1 sprig fresh basil: For garnish and added freshness.

Gear Up: What to Grab

Before you get started, make sure you have the right tools on hand:

Mixing bowl: For combining all of your ingredients.
Fork or potato masher: To help break down the cottage cheese.
Spoon: For scooping the gnudi mixture.
Large pot: For boiling the gnudi.
Slotted spoon: To remove the gnudi from boiling water.
Serving dish: To present your beautiful creation.

Directions: Gnudi (Cottage Cheese) Recipe

Get ready to whip up this delicious dish! Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Cottage Cheese

In a mixing bowl, combine the drained cottage cheese and egg yolk. Use a fork or a potato masher to break down the cottage cheese until smooth but still slightly chunky.

Step 2: Mix in the Cheese and Seasonings

Add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, kosher salt, black pepper, and ground nutmeg to the bowl. Stir until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Incorporate the Flour

Gradually add the all-purpose flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to overwork it.

Step 4: Shape the Gnudi

Dust your countertop with flour. Take a small amount of dough and roll it into a ball, about the size of a golf ball. Place the formed gnudi on a floured surface and repeat until all dough is shaped.

Step 5: Boil the Gnudi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle boil. Carefully drop the gnudi into the boiling water in batches. Once they float to the surface, they are done (about 2-3 minutes). Use a slotted spoon to remove them and transfer to a plate.

Step 6: Prepare the Marinara Sauce

While the gnudi are cooking, heat your marinara sauce in a separate saucepan until warmed through.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Plate the gnudi and generously spoon marinara sauce over the top. Garnish with additional grated cheese and a sprig of fresh basil.

Healthier Substitutions

If you’re looking to lighten up this dish even more or accommodate dietary preferences, consider these substitutions:

Use low-fat cottage cheese instead of 2% for fewer calories.
Swap out all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for added fiber.
Try using nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a vegan option.
Add in chopped spinach or kale to the dough for extra greens.

Avoid These Mistakes

Creating the perfect gnudi can be tricky. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

Not draining the cottage cheese well enough can lead to a watery dough.
Overworking the dough can make the gnudi tough.
Adding too much flour can result in heavy dumplings. Aim for a soft, slightly sticky dough.
Cooking the gnudi too long can make them mushy. Once they float, they are done.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

Gnudi are fantastic for meal prep! Here’s how to handle leftovers:

Store leftover gnudi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently in a microwave or by sautéing in a skillet with a little olive oil.
To freeze gnudi, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen, adding an extra minute to the boiling time.

Reader Questions

Can I use ricotta cheese instead of cottage cheese?

Yes! Ricotta cheese can be used as a substitute for cottage cheese in this recipe. It will give a creamier texture, but the flavor will remain delicious.

What sauce pairs best with gnudi?

While marinara is a classic choice, you can also serve gnudi with pesto, Alfredo, or even a brown butter sage sauce for a different flavor profile.

Can I add vegetables to the gnudi mixture?

Absolutely! Finely chopped spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers can be mixed into the dough for added flavor and nutrition.

How do I know when the gnudi are cooked?

Gnudi are done cooking when they float to the top of the boiling water. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they cook!

To create a complete meal, consider serving your gnudi with:

Bring It Home

This Gnudi (Cottage Cheese) Recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience. The light, fluffy dumplings paired with a rich sauce create a satisfying dish that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly simple to make. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just yourself, gnudi is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy a plate of this comforting Italian classic.