Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi

This Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi recipe is a decadent and satisfying dish perfect for any occasion. With pillowy gnocchi, a rich cream sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and Parmesan cheese, itโ€™s a dinner that will impress without the hassle. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or a quiet night in, this recipe delivers comfort and elegance in every bite.

Why Youโ€™ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy:ย Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Restaurant-Quality Dish:ย A luxurious combination of flavors that’s simple to recreate at home.
  • Versatile:ย Easily adaptable for dietary preferences or ingredient substitutions.
  • Comfort Food Classic:ย Creamy, cheesy, and indulgent, this is a meal everyone will love.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Potato gnocchi
  • Heavy cream
  • Garlic cloves
  • Sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed)
  • Fresh spinach
  • Parmesan cheese (grated)
  • Butter
  • Olive oil
  • Salt and pepper

Directions

  1. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sautรฉ until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 1-2 minutes.
  4. Add the heavy cream and simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
  5. Toss in the fresh spinach and stir until wilted.
  6. Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the sauce.
  8. Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings:ย 4
  • Prep Time:ย 10 minutes
  • Cook Time:ย 20 minutes
  • Total Time:ย 30 minutes

Variations

  • Protein Addition:ย Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or crumbled Italian sausage for extra heartiness.
  • Vegetarian-Friendly:ย Replace Parmesan with a vegetarian alternative or nutritional yeast.
  • Dairy-Free Option:ย Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and a plant-based cheese substitute.
  • Gluten-Free:ย Use gluten-free gnocchi available at most grocery stores.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage:ย Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating:ย Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. Avoid overheating to prevent the sauce from separating.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Yes, store-bought gnocchi works perfectly and saves time.

2. How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Ensure the cream is at room temperature and avoid boiling it. Stir frequently for a smooth sauce.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead and reheat with cooked gnocchi when ready to serve.

4. What can I use instead of spinach?

You can substitute kale, arugula, or Swiss chard for spinach.

5. Can I freeze this dish?

Freezing is not recommended as the cream sauce may separate.

6. How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?

Add a little more Parmesan cheese or simmer the sauce longer to reduce it.

7. What type of sun-dried tomatoes should I use?

Use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for the best flavor and texture.

8. Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Use plant-based cream, vegan Parmesan, and dairy-free gnocchi.

9. What pairs well with creamy Tuscan gnocchi?

Serve with a side of garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or roasted vegetables.

10. How do I prevent gnocchi from becoming mushy?

Do not overcook the gnocchi; follow package instructions for perfect texture.

Conclusion

Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi is a dish that combines the rich flavors of Italy with the simplicity of everyday cooking. This recipe is sure to become a family favorite, offering a cozy and indulgent meal in under 30 minutes. Try it today and bring a touch of Tuscan magic to your table!

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Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi

Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi

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  • Author: KimEasy
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi is a comforting Italian-inspired dish featuring tender potato gnocchi enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. This one-pan meal is perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream
  • 2/3 cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 pound (16 ounces) potato gnocchi (shelf-stable or refrigerated)
  • 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, julienned (oil-packed, drained)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 cups fresh baby spinach
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  • Sautรฉ Garlic:ย In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sautรฉ for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Prepare Sauce:ย Pour in the heavy cream and chicken or vegetable broth. Stir in the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes, if using. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  • Cook Gnocchi:ย Add the uncooked gnocchi and sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet. Stir to combine. Cover the skillet and cook for about 4 minutes.
  • Thicken Sauce:ย Uncover the skillet, stir, and continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the gnocchi is tender and the sauce has slightly thickened.
  • Add Spinach and Cheese:ย Stir in the fresh spinach, allowing it to wilt. Then, mix in the grated Parmesan cheese and lemon juice. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  • Serve:ย Remove from heat. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley, if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Gnocchi:ย Shelf-stable or refrigerated potato gnocchi works best for this recipe. Avoid using fresh gnocchi, as it may become too soft during cooking.
  • Sun-Dried Tomatoes:ย Opt for sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for better flavor and texture. Ensure they are well-drained before adding to the dish.
  • Storage:ย Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or broth to maintain the sauce’s consistency.

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