Creamy Spinach Gnocchi

This quick and luxurious weeknight dinner features pillowy potato gnocchi coated in a velvety, garlic-kissed cream sauce. Packed with fresh baby spinach and melted Parmesan, it is a decadent one-pan meal that comes together in under twenty minutes.

Creamy Spinach Gnocchi
  • Prep time: 18 minutes
  • Cook time: 22 minutes
  • Total time: 40 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Cuisine: International

Ingredients

  • 16 ounces shelf-stable or fresh potato gnocchi
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup vegetable broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 5 ounces fresh baby spinach
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the gnocchi according to package instructions (usually about 2 to 3 minutes, until they float); drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, melt the butter with the olive oil over medium heat.
  3. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
  4. Pour in the vegetable broth and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  5. Let the sauce simmer for 4 to 5 minutes until it begins to thicken slightly.
  6. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and ground nutmeg until the cheese is completely melted and integrated.
  7. Add the fresh baby spinach in handfuls, stirring constantly until it is fully wilted into the sauce.
  8. Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet, tossing gently to coat them thoroughly in the creamy sauce, and simmer for 1 to 2 minutes until heated through.

Tips

  • Do not overcook the gnocchi in the boiling water; as soon as they float to the top, remove them immediately so they do not become mushy.
  • For a deeper flavor profile, pan-sear the boiled gnocchi in a bit of butter before adding them to the cream sauce.
  • Freshly grated Parmesan melts much smoother than pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents that make sauces gritty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I add a protein to this dish?

Yes, sliced grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy vegetarian sausage make fantastic additions to this creamy pasta dish.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.

Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

You can, but the sauce will be thinner and has a slight risk of curdling. Simmer it gently and avoid boiling if using half-and-half.