Leftover Mashed Potato Gnocchi Recipe
Transform your leftover mashed potatoes into soft, pillowy gnocchi with this simple and rewarding recipe. Using just a few ingredients including leftover mashed potatoes, flour, egg, and salt, you can quickly create a versatile Italian classic. The gnocchi are gently boiled until they float, then ready to be paired with your favorite sauce for a delicious meal that reduces food waste and maximizes flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (approximately 32-40 gnocchi pieces) 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
Gnocchi Dough
- 1 cup leftover mashed potatoes (cold, straight from the fridge)
- 1 egg
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 to 2 cups all-purpose flour, divided (start with 1/4 cup and add as needed)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the leftover mashed potatoes, egg, and a pinch of salt. Mix gently to combine these main ingredients.
- Add Flour Gradually: Stir in 1/4 cup of flour initially, then continue adding flour 1/4 cup at a time. Use a spoon or spatula for the first addition and then your hands to knead. The dough should become soft and pliable but not sticky, without overworking to avoid chewy gnocchi.
- Prepare Workspace: Lightly flour a large cutting board and a sheet pan or plate to prevent sticking when shaping the dough.
- Shape the Dough: Cut the dough into 4 or 5 sections. Roll one section into a long rope about 1 inch thick on the floured board. Dust with extra flour if the dough sticks.
- Cut Gnocchi Pieces: Slice the rope into 1-inch pieces. These pieces form your gnocchi. Optionally, roll each piece over a gnocchi board or fork tines to create ridges, which help sauces cling better.
- Boil Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
- Cook Gnocchi: Carefully drop the gnocchi into boiling water, stirring gently to prevent sticking. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until they float to the surface. Once floating, remove with a slotted spoon and drain well.
- Serve: Toss the cooked gnocchi with your favorite sauce and serve immediately for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Notes
- Use cold leftover mashed potatoes for best dough texture and easier handling.
- Be gentle and avoid overworking the dough to prevent gummy or tough gnocchi.
- Flour amounts may vary depending on moisture content of the mashed potatoes; it’s important to add flour gradually to achieve the right softness.
- Rolling gnocchi over a fork or gnocchi board creates ridges that help hold onto sauces better.
- Serve gnocchi immediately after cooking as they are best fresh and soft.
Keywords: leftover mashed potatoes, gnocchi, Italian recipe, potato gnocchi, easy dinner, comfort food, homemade gnocchi
Find it online: https://ricoloranz.com/leftover-mashed-potato-gnocchi-recipe/
