Ricotta gnudi are soft, pillowy Italian dumplings made with creamy ricotta cheese, Parmesan, and just enough flour to hold them together. Often called “naked ravioli,” these delicate dumplings deliver all the comforting flavor of ravioli filling without the pasta shell. Finished in a rich cheese sauce and baked until bubbly, this dish is elegant enough for special occasions while still simple enough for a cozy family dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This ricotta gnudi recipe is wonderfully light, creamy, and comforting. The dumplings have a delicate texture that almost melts in your mouth, while the cheesy cream sauce adds richness and flavor to every bite. Unlike traditional gnocchi, gnudi are made without potatoes, making them softer and fluffier.
You’ll also love how surprisingly easy this recipe is to prepare. With only a handful of ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality Italian meal right in your own kitchen. The baked cheese sauce makes the dish feel extra special, and the sage adds a delicious earthy aroma that pairs perfectly with the ricotta.
Whether you’re preparing a romantic dinner, hosting guests, or simply craving comfort food, these ricotta gnudi are always a satisfying choice.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the gnudi:
2 cups whole-milk ricotta cheese, well drained
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
1/3 cup all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the cheese sauce:
3 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon fresh sage, finely chopped
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional garnish:
Fresh basil leaves
Extra grated Parmesan cheese
Directions
Start by draining the ricotta cheese thoroughly. Place it in a fine mesh sieve over a bowl and let it sit for at least 30 minutes. Removing excess moisture is important because it helps the gnudi hold their shape while cooking.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained ricotta, Parmesan cheese, beaten eggs, salt, and black pepper. Stir gently until smooth. Gradually add the flour and mix just until the dough comes together. Avoid overmixing because it can make the gnudi dense instead of light and tender.
Lightly flour your hands and shape the mixture into small balls about the size of golf balls. Place them on a lightly floured tray while you prepare the water.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle simmer. The water should not boil aggressively because delicate gnudi can break apart. Carefully lower the gnudi into the simmering water in batches. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cooked gnudi to a paper towel-lined plate.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In an oven-safe baking dish or skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped sage and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the mozzarella cheese. Continue stirring until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Add the cooked gnudi to the cheese sauce and gently coat each dumpling. Transfer the dish to the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the sauce is bubbling and lightly golden on top.
Serve immediately with fresh basil and extra Parmesan if desired.
Servings and timing
Servings: 6 servings
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Variations
For a lighter version, replace the cheese sauce with a simple tomato basil sauce. The acidity of tomatoes balances beautifully with the creamy ricotta.
You can also add finely chopped spinach to the gnudi mixture for a more traditional Tuscan-style version.
If you enjoy herbs, try adding parsley, basil, or thyme directly into the dough for extra flavor.
For a richer finish, sprinkle the baked gnudi with extra mozzarella and broil for 1 to 2 minutes until golden and bubbly.
You can even serve the gnudi with browned butter and sage instead of cream sauce for a classic Italian preparation.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover gnudi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
To reheat, place the gnudi in an oven-safe dish, cover lightly with foil, and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes or until heated through.
Avoid overheating in the microwave because the delicate texture can become rubbery.
You can also freeze uncooked gnudi. Arrange them on a tray until frozen solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Cook directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
FAQs
What does gnudi mean?
Gnudi means “naked” in Italian because they are essentially ravioli filling without the pasta shell.
Are gnudi the same as gnocchi?
No. Gnocchi are usually made with potatoes, while gnudi are made primarily with ricotta cheese.
Why did my gnudi fall apart?
This usually happens if the ricotta contains too much moisture or if the water is boiling too hard.
Can I make gnudi ahead of time?
Yes. You can shape the gnudi and refrigerate them for up to one day before cooking.
Can I freeze gnudi?
Yes. Freeze uncooked gnudi on a tray first, then store them in a freezer-safe container.
What sauce goes best with gnudi?
Cheese sauce, sage butter, and tomato sauce are all excellent choices.
Do I need to use whole milk ricotta?
Whole milk ricotta works best because it creates a creamier and richer texture.
Can I add spinach to the recipe?
Absolutely. Finely chopped spinach is a classic addition to traditional gnudi.
How do I know when gnudi are cooked?
They are ready once they float to the surface of the simmering water.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes. You can use a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour.
Conclusion
Ricotta gnudi in cheese sauce is a comforting Italian dish that feels both elegant and homemade. The soft ricotta dumplings paired with creamy melted cheese create a meal that is rich, delicate, and deeply satisfying. Despite their impressive appearance, gnudi are surprisingly easy to make and perfect for both special occasions and simple family dinners. Once you try these tender Italian dumplings, they may quickly become one of your favorite comfort foods.
