What ingredients do I need to make creamy gnocchi?

To make creamy gnocchi, you typically need store-bought or homemade gnocchi, heavy cream or half-and-half, chicken or vegetable broth, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and spinach or other greens. Some recipes also include butter, onions, and seasoning like salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. These simple ingredients come together quickly to create a rich and comforting one-pan meal.

Can I use frozen or pre-packaged gnocchi for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen, refrigerated, or shelf-stable gnocchi for this creamy gnocchi recipe. Shelf-stable potato gnocchi is preferred for its texture, but frozen gnocchi works well too. There is no need to boil the gnocchi beforehand; just add them directly to the sauce so they cook in the pan and absorb flavor, saving time and reducing cleanup.

How do I cook gnocchi without it sticking together?

To prevent gnocchi from sticking, make sure to cook them in enough liquid, such as broth and cream combined. Stir gently after adding uncooked gnocchi to the hot sauce and keep the heat medium to avoid burning. The starch released while cooking helps thicken the sauce and keeps the gnocchi separate and tender.

Is this creamy gnocchi recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this creamy gnocchi recipe can be vegetarian if you use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and avoid adding meat. The sauce’s creamy texture combined with spinach or other vegetables creates a satisfying meatless meal that appeals to vegetarians and anyone seeking a simple vegetarian dinner.

Can I add other vegetables or proteins to the creamy gnocchi?

Absolutely! Adding vegetables like mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or roasted bell peppers works great for extra flavor and nutrition. For protein, consider adding cooked chicken, sausage, or chickpeas. Just toss these ingredients in while cooking the sauce to blend everything evenly without extra steps.

Creamy Gnocchi Recipe With Spinach Ready In 20 Minutes

Name: Creamy Gnocchi Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: – 1 tablespoon olive oil; – 8 oz spinach; – Salt to taste; – Black pepper to taste; – 16 oz potato gnocchi (shelf-stable recommended); – ½ cup chicken broth (vegetable or beef broth or water can be used); – 1 cup heavy cream (half-and-half can be substituted for a lighter sauce); – 4 cloves garlic, minced; – ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning or Herbes de Provence; – ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (adjust to taste); – ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste); – Coarsely ground black pepper to taste; – Red pepper flakes to taste (use sparingly)

Description

🍽️ This Creamy Spinach Gnocchi Recipe offers a deliciously quick meal perfect for busy weeknights with just one pan needed.
🌿 Combining tender gnocchi with creamy sauce and nutritious spinach provides comfort and health benefits all in one dish.

Ingredients

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– 8 oz spinach

– Salt to taste

– Black pepper to taste

– 16 oz potato gnocchi (shelf-stable recommended)

– ½ cup chicken broth (vegetable or beef broth or water can be used)

– 1 cup heavy cream (half-and-half can be substituted for a lighter sauce)

– 4 cloves garlic, minced

– ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning or Herbes de Provence

– ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (adjust to taste)

– ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)

– Coarsely ground black pepper to taste

– Red pepper flakes to taste (use sparingly)

Instructions

1-First Step: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil to cook the gnocchi.

2-Second Step: While waiting, prepare the creamy sauce by heating olive oil in a pan over medium heat and sautéing minced garlic until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.

3-Third Step: Pour in the heavy cream and stir gently, simmering for 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened.

4-Fourth Step: Add grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously to melt and create a smooth sauce.

5-Fifth Step: Cook the gnocchi in boiling water until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes, then drain.

6-Sixth Step: Combine the cooked gnocchi with the creamy sauce, gently tossing to coat evenly.

7-Seventh Step: Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting for dietary preferences or restrictions.

8-Final Step: Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley and serve immediately, ensuring the dish is warm and flavorful. Optionally, adapt by using vegan ingredients or gluten-free gnocchi as needed.

Notes

🛒 Use shelf-stable packaged gnocchi for best results; homemade gnocchi may fall apart.
🔥 No need to pre-cook gnocchi; cooking directly in the sauce thickens it naturally.
🍳 Use a high-sided, heavy-bottomed skillet to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Pan Cooking
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: Approximately 350 calories per serving
Sugar: Approximately 2 grams per serving
Sodium: Approximately 450 mg per serving
Fat: Approximately 22 grams per serving
Saturated Fat: Approximately 12 grams per serving
Unsaturated Fat: Approximately 8 grams per serving
Trans Fat: 0 grams
Carbohydrates: Approximately 26 grams per serving
Fiber: Approximately 2 grams per serving
Protein: Approximately 6 grams per serving
Cholesterol: Approximately 60 mg per serving

Keywords: creamy gnocchi, spinach gnocchi, one pan gnocchi, quick gnocchi recipe