Go Back
Italian ricotta dumplings served in a creamy cheese sauce

Gnudi

Italian Ricotta Dumplings, known as Gnudi, are creamy, tender dumplings served in a rich cheese sauce, perfect for cozy nights or dinner parties.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Dumplings

  • 2 cups Ricotta Cheese Whole milk
  • ½ cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Adds nutty depth
  • 2 Egg Yolks Helps bind the mixture
  • ¾ cup All-Purpose Flour Holds the gnudi together
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Seasons the dumplings
  • teaspoon Nutmeg Adds subtle warmth

For the Cheese Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons Butter Richness for the sauce
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Lush, velvety sauce base
  • 1 cup Fontina Cheese Shredded, melts smoothly
  • 1 clove Garlic Minced, infuses sauce
  • ¼ teaspoon Black Pepper Balances the flavors
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley Chopped, for garnishing

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle boil.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, Parmesan, egg yolks, flour, salt, and nutmeg until just blended.
  • Lightly flour your hands and shape the mixture into small oval dumplings.

Cooking

  • Drop the gnudi gently into the boiling water; cook until they float, about 3–4 minutes.
  • Remove them with a slotted spoon and set aside.

Sauce Preparation

  • In a saucepan, melt butter; add garlic, then cream.
  • Whisk in Fontina until smooth; season with black pepper.

Serving

  • Pour the sauce over the gnudi, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.

Notes

Make sure to use the best quality ricotta cheese for the creamiest gnudi. Do not overmix the dough; blend until just combined. For extra flavor, consider adding herbs like basil or thyme to the sauce.
Keyword Cheese Sauce, Gnudi, Italian Comfort Food, Ricotta Dumplings