This Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi is the ultimate comfort food, featuring soft, pillowy gnocchi in a rich, creamy sauce made with heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes. With fresh spinach and a hint of lemon juice, this dish is both comforting and refreshing. It’s quick, easy to make, and perfect for weeknight dinners or a special meal. The combination of creamy texture and savory flavors makes this recipe a favorite for any Italian cuisine lover. Ready in just 20 minutes, this one-pan meal will be a go-to in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- ⅔ cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 pound potato gnocchi (uncooked)
- ⅓ cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, julienned
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1-2 cups fresh baby spinach
- Fresh basil (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Garlic and Cream Base: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30-60 seconds, just until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream and chicken or vegetable broth, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add the Gnocchi: Stir in the uncooked gnocchi and sun-dried tomatoes. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 4 minutes without stirring.
- Cook Until Tender: After 4 minutes, uncover the skillet, stir well, and test the gnocchi. Continue cooking uncovered, stirring frequently, until the gnocchi is tender and the sauce has slightly thickened.
- Finish the Dish: Once the gnocchi is cooked, stir in the fresh spinach, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice. Season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste. Add more lemon juice if desired, then cook for another minute or two until the spinach wilts and the sauce is creamy.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi combines the comforting texture of soft potato gnocchi with a rich, creamy sauce that’s perfectly balanced with tangy sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and Parmesan cheese. It’s a quick, one-pan meal that’s full of flavor, making it perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The addition of lemon juice gives the sauce a refreshing brightness, while the fresh basil adds a lovely herbal finish.
Tips
- Cook Gnocchi Al Dente: Gnocchi cooks quickly, so be sure not to overcook it. Test a gnocchi before removing the skillet from the heat.
- Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer the cream and broth mixture for a bit longer before adding the gnocchi. For a lighter sauce, add more broth.
- Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic will add the best flavor to this dish.
Variations and Substitutions
- Add Protein: To make this a heartier dish, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage for an extra protein boost.
- Swap Spinach: Use kale or arugula if you prefer a different leafy green.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or almond milk and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative to make this dish dairy-free.
FAQs
Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?
Yes, frozen gnocchi works just as well as fresh, but you may need to cook it a little longer. Just be sure to stir occasionally.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
It’s best to make this dish fresh, as the gnocchi may become soggy if stored with the sauce. However, you can prep all the ingredients ahead of time and cook it just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. A light, citrusy white wine like Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with the rich, creamy sauce. If you’re craving more veggies, roasted Brussels sprouts or sautéed zucchini would complement this dish perfectly.
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