Authentic Italian Gnocchi Alla Sorrentina

Ingredients

Potatoes

2 lbs, preferably starchy variety like russet

All-purpose flour

1.5 cups

Egg

1 large

Salt

1 teaspoon, plus more for boiling water

Garlic

2 cloves, minced

Olive oil

2 tablespoons

Tomato sauce

2 cups

Fresh ground black pepper

to taste

Mozzarella cheese

1 cup, grated

Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup, grated

Fresh basil leaves

1/4 cup, chopped

Instructions

1. Begin by boiling the potatoes in a pot of salted water until they're tender, about 20 minutes. Drain and let them cool slightly.
2. Peel the cooled potatoes and pass them through a potato ricer or mash them thoroughly until smooth.
3. In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, flour, egg, and a teaspoon of salt. Stir until a soft dough forms.
4. On a floured surface, knead the dough gently until it's smooth. Divide the dough into smaller portions, rolling each into a long rope.
5. Cut each rope into bite-sized pieces, and press each piece with a fork to create the characteristic ridges of gnocchi.
6. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook the gnocchi in batches until they float to the surface, then remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
7. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until aromatic.
8. Pour the tomato sauce into the pan, seasoning it with salt and fresh ground black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
9. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
10. Spread a layer of the tomato sauce at the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the cooked gnocchi on top of the sauce, then sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese over the gnocchi.
11. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
12. Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh basil and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and immerse yourself in the delightful taste of traditional Italian home cooking.