High-Protein Cottage Cheese Gnocchi

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Hey there, food lover! Iโ€™ve got a real treat for you today: High-Protein Cottage Cheese Gnocchi. I know what youโ€™re thinkingโ€”gnocchi can be a bit intimidating to make, but trust me, this recipe is a total game-changer! With cottage cheese in the mix, you get a boost of protein and a wonderfully creamy texture. The best part? Itโ€™s simple, comforting, and absolutely mouthwatering. Ready to give it a try?

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Why Youโ€™ll Love High-Protein Cottage Cheese Gnocchi

This recipe isnโ€™t just about the ingredientsโ€”itโ€™s about creating moments. Whether youโ€™re cooking for a cozy night in, impressing guests at a dinner party, or meal prepping for the week ahead, this dish is your new best friend. Hereโ€™s why itโ€™s a favorite:

  • Versatile: Perfect for a busy weeknight or as a crowd-pleaser at a dinner gathering. Imagine pulling this out of the oven and seeing the smiles around the table. Itโ€™s a guaranteed hit!
  • Budget-Friendly: With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a dish that feels indulgent without breaking the bank.
  • Quick and Easy: You donโ€™t need to be a pro in the kitchen to pull this off! These simple steps ensure youโ€™ll have a satisfying, homemade meal in no time.
  • Customizable: You can tweak the flavors to your heartโ€™s content. Spice it up with a bit of chili flakes, or keep it mildโ€”either way, youโ€™ll be craving more.
  • Crowd-Pleasing: Gnocchi thatโ€™s rich, hearty, and guaranteed to satisfy. Serve it up to kids and adults alike, and watch them go back for seconds!

Ingredients

Hereโ€™s the magic of this gnocchiโ€”itโ€™s made with simple ingredients, yet the result is absolutely divine. Letโ€™s break it down:

  • Cottage Cheese: The creamy, protein-packed base for the gnocchi. It adds a smooth texture that melts in your mouth.
  • Flour: For the perfect gnocchi texture. It brings everything together into little pillows of deliciousness.
  • Eggs: The binding agent that keeps the gnocchi together while adding richness to each bite.
  • Salt: Just the right amount to bring out all those flavors.
  • Olive Oil: For a light drizzle to crisp up the gnocchi once itโ€™s cooked.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Letโ€™s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

  • Preheat Your Equipment: Start by preheating your oven to 375ยฐF. This ensures even cooking and gives your gnocchi that perfect golden finish.
  • Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine cottage cheese, flour, eggs, and salt. Mix until the dough comes together. It should be soft but not too sticky.
  • Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Lightly flour a clean surface and roll the dough into small logs. Cut them into bite-sized pieces to form your gnocchi. If youโ€™re feeling fancy, press each piece with a fork to create the classic gnocchi grooves.
  • Boil the Gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Gently drop the gnocchi in and cook until they float to the surface (about 2-3 minutes). Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
  • Pan-fry the Gnocchi: Heat a bit of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the gnocchi and cook until golden and crispy on both sides.
  • Serve and Enjoy: Serve the gnocchi hot, drizzled with your favorite sauce, or enjoy them as is. Either way, youโ€™re in for a treat!

How to Serve High-Protein Cottage Cheese Gnocchi

This gnocchi is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas to enhance your meal:

  • Fresh Salads: Pair it with a light green salad tossed in a zesty vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
  • Garlic Bread: You can never go wrong with a side of warm, crusty garlic bread to soak up all that gnocchi goodness.
  • Vegetable Sides: Roasted veggies like zucchini or asparagus add a nice color and texture to balance the richness of the gnocchi.
  • As a Standalone: Sometimes, itโ€™s so delicious that it doesnโ€™t need anything else. Simply garnish with fresh herbs and enjoy!

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

  • Prep Ahead: Save time by making the gnocchi ahead of time and storing it in the fridge. When youโ€™re ready, just boil and pan-fry for a quick meal.
  • Spice It Up: Add some chili flakes or smoked paprika for a little heat and depth of flavor.
  • Dietary Adjustments: If you need a gluten-free option, you can substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
  • Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. Reheat gently in a pan or oven to keep them crispy.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I substitute cottage cheese with ricotta?
A1: You can! Ricotta will give a slightly different texture but still provide that creamy base. Itโ€™s a great alternative if you donโ€™t have cottage cheese.

Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: Yes! You can prepare the gnocchi in advance and refrigerate or freeze them for later. Just cook them when youโ€™re ready.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. Reheat them gently on the stove or in the oven.

Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: Absolutely! Freezing gnocchi is a great way to make a big batch ahead of time. Just freeze the uncooked gnocchi on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag.

Q5: Whatโ€™s the best way to reheat this dish?
A5: Reheat in a pan with a little olive oil to maintain that crispy texture, or gently warm in the oven.

Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Yes, definitely! If youโ€™re feeding a crowd, just double the ingredients. You can freeze any extras for future meals.

Q7: Can I add spinach or other vegetables to the gnocchi dough?
A7: Yes, you can! Adding finely chopped spinach or herbs will not only enhance the flavor but also add a beautiful green color.

Q8: How do I know when the gnocchi are done boiling?
A8: The gnocchi will float to the top when theyโ€™re done. This means theyโ€™re cooked and ready to be removed.

Q9: Can I use this recipe for a low-carb version?
A9: You can experiment with almond flour or another low-carb flour for a lighter option, though it will change the texture.

Q10: How can I make this recipe spicier?
A10: Add some crushed red pepper flakes or a little cayenne pepper to the dough or sauce for a spicy kick.

Conclusion

And there you have itโ€”your new go-to recipe for High-Protein Cottage Cheese Gnocchi! Whether youโ€™re meal prepping or enjoying a cozy dinner with loved ones, this dish will quickly become a favorite. The best part? Itโ€™s simple, hearty, and full of flavorโ€”perfect for any night of the week. So, what are you waiting for? Grab those ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the deliciousness thatโ€™s about to unfold!

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High-Protein Cottage Cheese Gnocchi

High-Protein Cottage Cheese Gnocchi

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  • Author: Maria
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Broiling
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This High Protein Cottage Cheese Gnocchi recipe is a game-changer for busy nights and protein-packed meals. With only 4 ingredients, you get pillowy soft gnocchi boasting over 35g of protein per servingโ€”no need to boil potatoes! This simple yet satisfying dish is perfect for vegetarians, healthy recipes fans, and anyone looking for quick and easy dinner recipes with a protein boost. Pair it with your favorite sauce, like a vibrant green goddess, for a next-level experience


Ingredients

For the Gnocchi:

  • 1 cup (9 oz / 250g) cottage cheese

  • 1 cup (150g) plain flour

  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

  • 1 teaspoon salt

For the Green Goddess Sauce (optional):

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  • A big handful of basil leaves

  • 20g (about 1/4 cup) parmesan cheese, grated

  • 2 garlic cloves

  • 2 teaspoons white miso paste

  • 1 teaspoon fish sauce

  • 1 tablespoon pickled jalapeรฑo slices (optional)

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

  • 200g spinach leaves


Instructions

  1. Blend Cottage Cheese: Add cottage cheese to a blender or food processor and blitz until smooth.

  2. Make Dough: In a bowl, combine whipped cottage cheese, flour, parmesan, and salt. Mix to form a sticky dough.

  3. Shape Gnocchi: On a floured surface, roll dough into long logs and cut into ยฝโ€ (1.5cm) pieces. Place on a parchment-lined tray.

  4. Make Sauce: Blend basil, parmesan, garlic, miso, fish sauce, jalapeรฑo (if using), olive oil, lemon juice, and blanched spinach until smooth.

  5. Boil Gnocchi: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add gnocchi and stir gently to prevent sticking. When they float, theyโ€™re done.

  6. Pan-Fry (Optional): Heat olive oil in a pan. Transfer gnocchi with a slotted spoon and sautรฉ for 2โ€“3 minutes until edges are golden.

  7. Combine & Serve: Toss gnocchi with green goddess sauce and a ladle of cooking water. Stir to coat, then serve hot with extra parmesan.


Notes

  • For gluten-free gnocchi, try using almond flour or oat flour alternatives.

  • Cottage cheese can be low-fat or full-fatโ€”both work well.

  • Skip the pan-frying step for a softer gnocchi texture.

  • You can freeze uncooked gnocchi for later; boil straight from frozen.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 420 kcal
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 720mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg
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