If you’re on the hunt for a dish that feels like a gourmet celebration right in your own kitchen, the Millionaire Gnocchi with Red Sauce, Herbed Ricotta, and Golden Crispies Recipe is about to become your new favorite. This recipe brings together fluffy potato gnocchi, simmered in a rich and vibrant red sauce, topped with a creamy, fresh herbed ricotta, and finished with irresistible golden crispies that add that perfect crunch. It’s a fantastic blend of hearty and elegant flavors that’s surprisingly easy to prepare, making it perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a special meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role, balancing flavors and textures in a way that’s both delicious and surprisingly simple. From the savory Italian sausage that adds depth, to the bright lemon zest in the ricotta that refreshes each bite, these essentials come together effortlessly on your plate.
- Ground Italian sausage (1 lb): Adds savory richness, use meatless for a vegetarian twist.
- Extra-virgin olive oil (1–2 tbsp): For sautéing and enhancing flavors with its fruity smoothness.
- Medium yellow onion, minced: Provides sweetness and a subtle base to the red sauce.
- Large garlic cloves, minced (2): Infuses the sauce with that unmistakable garlicky warmth.
- Crushed tomatoes (28 oz can): The heart of the red sauce, offering a rich and tangy tomatoey foundation.
- Dried oregano (1 tsp): Adds earthy herb notes essential for a classic Italian vibe.
- Salt and red pepper flakes, to taste: Perfect for seasoning and a gentle touch of heat.
- Ricotta cheese (6–8 oz): Creamy and mild, it balances the robust sauce beautifully.
- Small garlic clove, grated: Blended into the ricotta to give it a gentle kick.
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon: Brings freshness and brightness that lifts the entire dish.
- Minced herbs (chives, parsley, thyme): Introduce herbal complexity and a lovely green pop.
- Two 16-oz packages of pre-cooked gnocchi: Soft pillows that soak up all the wonderful flavors.
- Your favorite golden breadcrumbs: For that signature crunch as golden crispies topping.
How to Make Millionaire Gnocchi with Red Sauce, Herbed Ricotta, and Golden Crispies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Red Sauce
Start by heating the extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground Italian sausage, breaking it up as it cooks until it’s browned and cooked through. Next, toss in the minced onion and garlic, allowing them to soften until fragrant and translucent. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, sprinkle in the dried oregano, salt, and red pepper flakes, then let the sauce simmer gently for about 20 minutes. This slow simmer transforms simple ingredients into a rich, hearty sauce that coats every piece of gnocchi beautifully.
Step 2: Whip Up the Herbed Ricotta
While the sauce is simmering, it’s time to brighten up the ricotta. In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with the grated garlic clove, lemon zest, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Then fold in your minced herbs like chives, parsley, and thyme. This refreshing herbed ricotta balances the richness of the sausage sauce with creamy, citrusy brightness that feels indulgent with every spoonful.
Step 3: Cook and Crisp the Gnocchi
Drain the pre-cooked gnocchi and pat them dry. Heat a bit of olive oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat and sauté the gnocchi until they develop a golden-brown crust on both sides—this step adds a delicious texture contrast that is absolutely necessary for the Millionaire Gnocchi with Red Sauce, Herbed Ricotta, and Golden Crispies Recipe. Once crisped, transfer them to the simmering red sauce to soak up all those amazing flavors for a minute or two.
Step 4: Prepare the Golden Crispies Topping
In the same pan used for the gnocchi, add a touch more olive oil and your favorite golden breadcrumbs. Toast them gently until they turn a gorgeous, crunchy golden brown. These golden crispies bring texture and a toasty flavor that makes each bite delightfully satisfying—don’t skip this step as it makes the dish truly stand out.
How to Serve Millionaire Gnocchi with Red Sauce, Herbed Ricotta, and Golden Crispies Recipe
Garnishes
Top each serving with a generous dollop of the herbed ricotta. Sprinkle the golden crispies generously over the top for that irresistible crunch. A few fresh herb sprigs also add a lovely visual pop and enhance the fresh aroma.
Side Dishes
This meal pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon and olive oil to complement the zesty ricotta. For a heartier side, try roasted seasonal vegetables or a simple garlic bread to soak up any extra red sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the Millionaire Gnocchi with Red Sauce, Herbed Ricotta, and Golden Crispies Recipe in individual shallow bowls for an inviting, rustic feel. Alternatively, assemble it in a large baking dish, then finish it under the broiler to melt the ricotta slightly and brown the crispies even more. It’s a showstopper presentation that makes the meal feel extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Millionaire Gnocchi with Red Sauce, Herbed Ricotta, and Golden Crispies Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the golden crispies separate if possible to maintain their crunch.
Freezing
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the gnocchi with red sauce (without the ricotta and crispies) in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to rewarm evenly. Add fresh herbed ricotta and crispies after reheating to keep the flavors bright and textures perfect.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the ground Italian sausage for a plant-based meat alternative or extra vegetables like mushrooms to maintain that hearty texture.
What type of ricotta cheese works best?
Whole milk ricotta is ideal for its creamy texture and mild flavor, but part-skim works well if you prefer a lighter option.
Are there any alternatives to pre-cooked gnocchi?
Fresh gnocchi from a reputable store or homemade gnocchi can be used, but cooking times will vary slightly.
How spicy is the dish?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle heat. You can adjust the amount to suit your personal spice preference or omit entirely for no heat.
Can I prepare the components separately in advance?
Yes, the red sauce and herbed ricotta can be made a day ahead to save time. Crisp the gnocchi just before serving for best texture.
Final Thoughts
If you want a dish that feels special yet comforting, the Millionaire Gnocchi with Red Sauce, Herbed Ricotta, and Golden Crispies Recipe is a must-try. Its layers of flavor and texture make every bite memorable. I can’t wait for you to make this recipe and share the goodness with your loved ones—it truly feels like a little luxury on a plate!
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Millionaire Gnocchi with Red Sauce, Herbed Ricotta, and Golden Crispies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Millionaire Gnocchi is a luxurious Italian-inspired dish featuring tender gnocchi served with a flavorful red sausage sauce, creamy herbed ricotta, and crispy golden breadcrumbs for added texture and richness. This comforting meal combines savory Italian sausage, aromatic herbs, and tangy lemon-infused ricotta to create a harmonious blend of flavors perfect for a satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
Red Sausage Sauce
- 1 lb ground Italian sausage (or meatless alternative)
- 1–2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, minced
- 2 large garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and red pepper flakes, to taste
Herbed Ricotta
- 6–8 oz ricotta cheese
- 1 small garlic clove, grated
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- Salt, to taste
- Minced herbs (chives, parsley, thyme), to taste
Gnocchi and Toppings
- Two 16-oz packages of pre-cooked gnocchi
- Your favorite golden breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Prepare the Red Sausage Sauce: Heat 1–2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground Italian sausage (or meatless alternative) and cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon. Add the minced onion and garlic and sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, salt, and red pepper flakes to taste. Simmer the sauce on low heat for 20-25 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Make the Herbed Ricotta: In a small bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with grated garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir in minced fresh herbs such as chives, parsley, and thyme to provide fresh, aromatic flavors. Adjust the seasoning as needed and set aside.
- Cook the Gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pre-cooked gnocchi packages and cook until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Drain the gnocchi thoroughly.
- Prepare the Golden Crispies: In a separate small skillet, toast your favorite golden breadcrumbs over medium heat until crisp and golden brown, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Combine and Serve: Add the drained gnocchi to the sausage red sauce and gently toss to coat evenly and warm through. Serve the gnocchi topped with dollops of the herbed ricotta and sprinkled generously with the golden breadcrumbs for texture and added richness. Enjoy immediately.
Notes
- You can use a meatless Italian sausage alternative to make this dish vegetarian.
- If fresh herbs are unavailable, dried can be used but reduce the quantity as they are more concentrated.
- Pre-cooked gnocchi saves time; however, fresh gnocchi can be used if preferred, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
- The breadcrumbs add a delightful crunch, but they can be omitted if you prefer a softer texture.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to your spice tolerance for a mild or spicy kick.
