Introduction
If you’re craving a comforting and wholesome Italian-inspired meal, this White Bean Gnocchi Recipe will instantly win your heart. Combining the creamy texture of white beans with pillowy gnocchi, this dish offers a perfect balance of flavor, protein, and comfort. It’s an elegant twist on traditional potato gnocchi — light, nutritious, and irresistibly rich. Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special weekend treat, this homemade white bean gnocchi delivers both flavor and nourishment in every bite.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Imagine tender dumplings infused with the earthy sweetness of beans, tossed in olive oil or creamy garlic sauce — a dish that tastes as indulgent as it is wholesome.
Why You’ll Love This White Bean Gnocchi Recipe
Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes — perfect for busy weeknights.
Protein-Packed: Thanks to the white beans, every serving is full of plant-based protein.
Budget-Friendly: Simple pantry ingredients you probably already have.
Nutritious Comfort: Combines carbs, fiber, and vitamins in one cozy dish.
Authentic Italian Flavors: Soft gnocchi meets garlic, herbs, and olive oil.
Customizable: Pair it with your favorite sauce — from tomato basil to creamy parmesan.
Perfect Pairing: Enjoy with a glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon.
Vegetarian-Friendly: Ideal for anyone seeking a hearty meatless dinner.
Ingredients
For the Gnocchi Dough:
1 can (15 oz) white beans (cannellini or Great Northern), drained and rinsed
¾ cup all-purpose flour, plus more as needed
1 large egg
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Optional: 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, or parsley)
Optional Additions:
Olive oil or butter for sautéing
Freshly grated parmesan or pecorino cheese for serving
Garlic, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for flavor boost
💡 Ingredient Tips:
Use cannellini beans for their creamy texture and mild flavor.
Substitute gluten-free flour if you prefer a gluten-free version.
For extra flavor, mash in roasted garlic or sprinkle nutritional yeast for a vegan twist.
How to Make White Bean Gnocchi
Step 1: Prepare the Beans
Drain and rinse the white beans thoroughly. Use a food processor to blend until smooth and creamy, or mash by hand until no lumps remain. The smoother the puree, the lighter your gnocchi texture.
Step 2: Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the bean puree, flour, egg, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Gently mix until a soft dough forms. If the dough feels sticky, sprinkle a little more flour — but avoid overmixing, as this can make the gnocchi dense.
Step 3: Shape the Gnocchi
Lightly flour your surface and divide the dough into portions. Roll each piece into a long rope about 1 inch thick, then cut into 1-inch sections. You can roll each piece over a fork to create the classic gnocchi ridges, which help sauces cling beautifully.
Step 4: Boil the Gnocchi
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Drop the gnocchi in batches — when they float to the top, cook for another 1–2 minutes. Remove using a slotted spoon and transfer to a plate.
Step 5: Sauté for Flavor
In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the cooked gnocchi and sauté for 3–4 minutes until golden on the edges. Toss with garlic, spinach, or your favorite sauce.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Plate the gnocchi, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with cheese and herbs, and enjoy this creamy, rustic Italian comfort meal.
Pro Tips for the Best White Bean Gnocchi
🔹 How do you keep gnocchi from being too dense?
Avoid adding too much flour — start small and add gradually. Overworking the dough can make the gnocchi heavy.
🔹 Can you freeze white bean gnocchi?
Yes! Arrange uncooked gnocchi on a tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Boil directly from frozen when ready to serve.
🔹 What sauce goes best with white bean gnocchi?
Try creamy garlic parmesan, tomato basil, or brown butter sage sauce. Each complements the mild, nutty flavor of the beans perfectly.
🔹 Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Simply replace the egg with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and a spoonful of mashed beans for binding.
Best Ways to Serve White Bean Gnocchi
This Italian white bean gnocchi is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with:
Creamy Alfredo sauce for indulgence
Tomato and basil for a light summer meal
Spinach and lemon zest for freshness
Pesto for herby, vibrant flavor
Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving)
Calories: 285 kcal
Protein: 12g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fat: 9g
Fiber: 5g
Sodium: 210mg
Vitamin A: 4% DV
Iron: 12% DV
This healthy white bean gnocchi provides a balanced mix of plant-based protein and fiber, making it a satisfying and nutritious choice.
Storage & Leftovers
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Freeze uncooked gnocchi for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Sauté in a skillet with olive oil or reheat with a splash of broth for moisture.
FAQs
❓ What type of white beans work best?
Cannellini beans are ideal for creaminess, but Great Northern beans work too.
❓ Can I bake the gnocchi instead of boiling?
Yes — place boiled gnocchi in a baking dish with sauce and cheese, then bake at 375°F for 15 minutes.
❓ Is this dish kid-friendly?
Definitely! The mild flavor and soft texture make it perfect for children.
❓ Can I use store-bought gnocchi?
You can, but making homemade white bean gnocchi delivers a richer, fresher flavor.
Recipe Variations
Tuscan Style: Add spinach, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes.
Spicy Version: Mix in crushed red pepper flakes or chili oil.
Vegan: Replace egg with olive oil and skip cheese.
Gluten-Free: Use chickpea or rice flour instead of wheat flour.
One-Pan Skillet: Cook the gnocchi and sauce in one pan for minimal cleanup.
Conclusion
There’s something magical about a dish that’s both rustic and refined — and this White Bean Gnocchi Recipe captures exactly that. Every bite melts in your mouth with creamy, comforting flavor, making it an instant favorite for cozy nights or elegant dinners alike.