Heart-Shaped Beet Gnocchi with Cream Sauce

Name: Heart-Shaped Beet Gnocchi with Cream Sauce
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium beets, roasted and peeled; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting; 1 egg; Salt to taste; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 clove garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; A pinch of nutmeg (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Heart-Shaped Beet Gnocchi with Cream Sauce because it combines the earthy sweetness of beets with a rich and creamy sauce that elevates any dinner table. The vibrant color of the gnocchi is not only eye-catching but also adds a fun twist to traditional pasta dishes. I find that the key to achieving the perfect texture is kneading the dough just enough without overworking it, which keeps the gnocchi light and airy. Join me in creating this delightful pasta that’s perfect for special occasions or just a cozy night in!

Created by

Megan Douglas

Last updated on 2026-01-07T12:07:12.714Z

Creating Heart-Shaped Beet Gnocchi has become one of my favorite culinary adventures. The process is not only enjoyable but transforms the humble ingredients into something extraordinary. The natural sweetness of the beets lends a vibrant color and flavor profile that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce, making each bite a memorable experience.

When I first attempted this recipe, I discovered that adding a pinch of nutmeg to the cream sauce brought out the earthy tones of the beets perfectly. This unexpected twist turned out to be a game-changer, enhancing the overall flavor and making it a dish that my friends and family adore!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Beautiful heart shape perfect for special occasions
Rich creamy sauce complemented by earthy beet flavor
A fun twist on traditional gnocchi that’s impressive yet easy to make

      

The Role of Beets in Gnocchi

Beets play a crucial role in this gnocchi recipe, not only providing its vibrant color but also contributing a subtle sweetness that beautifully contrasts with the rich cream sauce. Roasting the beets enhances their natural sugars, making them sweeter than when raw. Aim to roast the beets until they are fork-tender, usually around 45 to 60 minutes at 400°F. This brings out their earthy flavor, which is key to the overall taste profile of the dish.

When mashing the roasted beets, ensure there are no large chunks left; a smooth texture is essential for seamlessly incorporating the other ingredients. If you find yourself with extra beets after making the gnocchi, consider saving them for salads or side dishes; they’re versatile and pair well with flavors like goat cheese or citrus.

Mastering Gnocchi Texture

Kneading the gnocchi dough just enough is the secret to achieving a light and airy texture. After mixing the ingredients, you should have a soft, slightly sticky dough that holds together. If it feels too wet, dust a little more flour, but avoid overdoing it; excess flour can lead to dense gnocchi. Remember, the goal is to keep the dough moist while ensuring it holds its shape during cooking.

Shaping the gnocchi into hearts may seem tricky at first, but with practice, it becomes quick and fun. I recommend using a small piece of dough for each heart and gently pinching the top to form the point while rolling out the sides to form the lobes. This technique not only makes for a delightful presentation but also ensures even cooking as the pieces will be similar in size.

Tips for the Cream Sauce

The cream sauce can truly elevate your beet gnocchi, and it’s important to use high-quality ingredients for the best results. When choosing your heavy cream, opt for one with at least 36% fat content for a richer sauce. Keep an eye on the heat while cooking; you want the cream to simmer gently, not boil, which can cause separation.

For added depth, consider incorporating fresh herbs like thyme or basil into the sauce. Just a few leaves tossed in during the last minute of cooking can infuse the sauce with a fresh aroma and flavor. If you want to make it vegan, substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut cream and nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you begin:

For the Gnocchi

2 medium beets, roasted and peeled
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
1 egg
Salt to taste

For the Cream Sauce

1 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
A pinch of nutmeg (optional)

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious gnocchi:

Prepare the Gnocchi Dough

In a mixing bowl, mash the roasted beets until smooth. Add the ricotta cheese, egg, and salt, mixing until just combined. Gradually incorporate the flour until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overwork it, as that can make the gnocchi tough.

Shape the Gnocchi

Divide the dough into sections and roll each section into a long rope, about 1/2 inch thick. Cut the ropes into 1-inch pieces, then shape each piece into a heart using your fingers. Press gently to create the heart shape.

Cook the Gnocchi

Boil a large pot of salted water. Once boiling, drop the gnocchi in batches. They are done when they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.

Make the Cream Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, sauté the garlic until fragrant. Add the heavy cream, Parmesan, salt, and pepper, stirring until heated through. Optional: add a pinch of nutmeg for enhanced flavor.

Combine and Serve

Gently add the cooked gnocchi to the cream sauce, tossing to coat. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs if desired.

Enjoy your heart-shaped gnocchi with a rich cream sauce!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding sautéed spinach or a sprinkle of fresh herbs before serving. Pair with a glass of white wine for a delightful meal!

Make-Ahead and Storage

You can prepare the gnocchi dough a day in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To prevent it from drying out, wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before rolling it out; this makes shaping it much easier.

If you have leftover gnocchi, you can freeze them. Spread the shaped gnocchi on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. This way, they won’t stick together. When you're ready to use them, cook directly from frozen; just add an extra minute or two to the cook time.

Serving Suggestions

Heart-shaped beet gnocchi pairs exceptionally well with a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. The acidity from the vinaigrette complements the richness of the gnocchi and cream sauce beautifully. For a touch of elegance, serve with toasted pine nuts or walnuts sprinkled on top for added crunch and flavor.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding sautéed greens, such as spinach or kale, to the cream sauce. They can be quickly cooked in the same pan immediately after sautéing the garlic, contributing both nutrition and flavor without complicating the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought gnocchi instead?

Yes, feel free to use store-bought gnocchi for a quicker option. Just adjust the cooking time as indicated on the package.

→ Can I freeze gnocchi?

Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked gnocchi on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Cook them straight from frozen, adjusting cooking time slightly.

→ What else can I add to the cream sauce?

You can add vegetables like peas, asparagus, or mushrooms for extra texture and flavor. Just sauté them with the garlic before adding the cream.

→ How do I know when the gnocchi is cooked?

Gnocchi is cooked when it floats to the surface of the boiling water, indicating it's done. It usually takes 2-3 minutes for fresh gnocchi.