White Bean Gnocchi

There’s something so comforting about gnocchi, isn’t there? Those little soft pillows of potato and dough are the perfect vehicle for sauces and flavors, but let’s switch things up a bit today with a twist on the traditional recipe. Imagine pillowy gnocchi made with white beans! Yes, you read that right. White bean gnocchi is the perfect balance of rich, tender texture and hearty beans, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and a little healthier.

Trust me, this dish is a total game-changer. It’s easy to make, packed with protein, and just as comforting as the classic. Plus, it pairs beautifully with a variety of sauces, whether you’re craving something creamy or prefer a simple drizzle of olive oil and herbs. So, grab those beans and let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love White Bean Gnocchi

Let me tell you why this white bean gnocchi is going to become your new favorite:

Versatile

This gnocchi is super flexible. You can serve it with marinara sauce, a simple garlic butter sauce, or even a vibrant pesto. Plus, you can top it with anything from sautéed spinach to crispy pancetta to make it your own.

Nutritious

With white beans in the mix, this gnocchi has an added boost of protein and fiber. It’s a fantastic way to get more plant-based goodness into your meal without compromising on comfort.

Simple Ingredients

You don’t need any crazy ingredients for this dish—just a few basic pantry staples like beans, flour, and a little seasoning. You’ll be amazed at how these humble ingredients come together to create something so delicious.

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you’re looking for an easy meal prep option, this is it! You can make a big batch of the gnocchi, freeze it, and cook it later in the week. It’s a total lifesaver when you want something homemade but don’t have a lot of time.

Comforting Yet Light

The gnocchi is rich and satisfying without feeling heavy. It’s the best of both worlds, making it a perfect dinner for any night of the week.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful white bean gnocchi:

Canned White Beans

White beans are the star of this dish, giving the gnocchi its smooth texture and a boost of protein. Cannellini beans or Great Northern beans work best here, but any mild white bean will do.

Flour

A bit of all-purpose flour helps bind everything together and gives the gnocchi its pillowy texture. You might need a little more or less depending on the moisture in your beans, so don’t be afraid to adjust as you go.

Egg

The egg helps to hold the dough together and gives the gnocchi a tender bite.

Olive Oil

A touch of olive oil adds richness and helps create a smooth, workable dough.

Salt and Pepper

A little salt and pepper to taste—seasoning is key for making the gnocchi flavorful from the inside out.

Fresh Herbs (Optional)

Chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can be added for extra flavor, but this is totally optional.

Instructions

Let’s dive into the simple steps to make these irresistible white bean gnocchi:

Prepare the Beans

Start by draining and rinsing your canned white beans. Then, place them in a food processor or mash them by hand until they’re smooth and creamy. If you’re using a food processor, pulse until the beans are broken down into a paste-like consistency.

Make the Dough

Transfer the mashed beans to a large mixing bowl. Add in the flour, egg, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until a dough starts to form. You might need to add a little more flour if the dough is too sticky, but be careful not to overwork it.

Roll and Shape the Gnocchi

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it into a long log, about 1-inch thick. Use a knife or bench scraper to cut the dough into small pieces (about 1-inch long). You can leave them as is, or if you’re feeling fancy, roll each piece over the back of a fork to create the classic gnocchi indentations.

Cook the Gnocchi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully drop the gnocchi into the water in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Once they float to the surface, let them cook for another 1-2 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the water and set them aside.

Sauté the Gnocchi

In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the cooked gnocchi to the pan and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until they’re golden and slightly crispy on the edges.

Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your white bean gnocchi hot, topped with your favorite sauce or a drizzle of olive oil and fresh herbs. Enjoy every bite of these delicious little bites of comfort!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 320
Total Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 0.5g
Cholesterol: 45mg
Sodium: 210mg
Total Carbohydrates: 45g
Dietary Fiber: 8g
Sugars: 1g
Protein: 14g
Vitamin D: 0% DV
Calcium: 2% DV
Iron: 10% DV

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve White Bean Gnocchi

You’ve made the gnocchi, now let’s think about how to serve it:

Marinara Sauce

A classic tomato marinara sauce is a perfect companion for this white bean gnocchi. The tangy sauce pairs beautifully with the soft, tender gnocchi.

Garlic Butter Sauce

For a simple, yet rich option, melt some butter with garlic and a little fresh thyme or rosemary. Drizzle over the gnocchi and sprinkle with parmesan.

Pesto

Fresh basil pesto adds a burst of herbal goodness to the gnocchi. It’s especially good if you’re craving something a little more vibrant and fresh.

Roasted Vegetables

Roast some of your favorite vegetables like zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers. The sweetness of the roasted veggies pairs wonderfully with the gnocchi and adds a nice contrast in texture.

Fresh Greens

A side of sautéed spinach or arugula adds a bit of bitterness that balances the rich gnocchi, making for a well-rounded meal.

Additional Tips

Here are a few tips to make your white bean gnocchi even better:

Make a Bigger Batch

You can easily double this recipe and freeze the gnocchi for later. Just freeze the uncooked gnocchi on a sheet pan, then transfer them to a zip-top bag once they’re frozen. Cook them directly from frozen when you’re ready to enjoy!

Use a Potato Ricer

If you have a potato ricer, you can use it to mash your beans for an even smoother consistency. It will help create a more delicate gnocchi texture.

Skip the Pan-Searing

If you prefer a softer gnocchi, feel free to skip the pan-searing step and serve the gnocchi straight from the pot with your sauce of choice.

Add Cheese

If you’re a fan of cheesy gnocchi, grate some parmesan or pecorino over the top just before serving for an extra layer of flavor.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

A1: Yes! If you prefer, you can cook dried white beans and use them in place of canned. Just make sure they’re cooked until very soft before mashing.

Q2: Can I make this recipe vegan?

A2: Absolutely! You can omit the egg and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water) as a substitute.

Q3: Can I freeze the gnocchi before cooking it?

A3: Yes! After shaping the gnocchi, spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen when ready.

Q4: Can I make this gnocchi gluten-free?

A4: Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure to check the texture and adjust if needed.

Q5: How do I store leftovers?

A5: Store leftover gnocchi in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, sauté them in a pan or reheat them in the microwave.

Q6: Can I make this without a food processor?

A6: Definitely! You can mash the beans by hand using a potato masher or fork, though it will take a bit longer to get them smooth.

Q7: What other sauces can I use with white bean gnocchi?

A7: You can use a variety of sauces—try a creamy Alfredo, brown butter sage sauce, or even a lemony olive oil sauce with garlic and capers.

Q8: Can I make the gnocchi ahead of time?

A8: Yes! You can make the gnocchi and store it in the fridge for up to a day before cooking. Just be sure to cover it well so it doesn’t dry out.

Q9: What if my dough is too sticky?

A9: If your dough is too sticky, just add a little more flour, but be careful not to add too much or it might make the gnocchi dense.

Q10: How do I know when the gnocchi is done?

A10: The gnocchi is done when it floats to the top of the boiling water, and it’s best to cook it for an additional 1-2 minutes to ensure it’s cooked through.

Conclusion

This white bean gnocchi is a delightful twist on a classic favorite, and it’s packed with flavor, comfort, and nutrition. Whether you’re looking to make something special for dinner or meal prep for the week, this dish is sure to satisfy. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!

Print