This creamy Tuscan gnocchi dish is the perfect blend of comfort and elegance. With soft, pillowy gnocchi coated in a rich garlic cream sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and a touch of Parmesan, every bite bursts with flavor. The best part? It’s a one-pot meal ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests.
Ingredients
For the Gnocchi:
- 1 lb potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
- 2 cups fresh spinach (roughly chopped)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil (chopped)
- Grated Parmesan
Preparation
Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing their flavors to infuse into the oil.
Add Spinach and Broth
- Add the spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
Cook the Gnocchi
- Add the gnocchi directly into the skillet. Stir well to ensure they are coated in the sauce. Let simmer for 5-7 minutes until the gnocchi are tender and cooked through.
Make the Creamy Sauce
- Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Let it simmer gently for another 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the gnocchi.
Serve
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan. Serve immediately with crusty bread or a light salad.
Variations
- Protein Additions: Add grilled chicken, Italian sausage, or shrimp for a heartier meal.
- Vegetarian Version: Use vegetable broth and skip the meat for a fully vegetarian dish.
- Extra Veggies: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or roasted red peppers for more variety.
Cooking Notes
- Homemade Gnocchi: If you prefer homemade gnocchi, boil them separately until they float, then add to the sauce.
- Sauce Thickness: For a thicker sauce, simmer the sauce a bit longer, or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water).
- Cheese Substitute: For a different flavor, try Pecorino Romano instead of Parmesan.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this creamy Tuscan gnocchi with a side of garlic bread or focaccia for dipping.
- Serve alongside a Caesar salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- For wine lovers, pair it with a Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio to complement the creamy sauce.
Tips
- Don’t Overcook Gnocchi: Keep an eye on the gnocchi to avoid them becoming mushy.
- Reheating Tip: Add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to keep the sauce creamy.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fat: 25g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fiber: 3g
FAQs
Can I use store-bought gnocchi?
Absolutely! Store-bought gnocchi works perfectly and saves time, but homemade gnocchi will add a special touch if you have time.
Is this dish vegetarian?
Yes, it can be made vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and ensuring your Parmesan cheese is vegetarian-friendly.
Can I make this ahead of time?
This dish is best served fresh, but you can make it ahead and reheat with a splash of broth or cream to refresh the sauce.
Conclusion
This creamy Tuscan gnocchi is a rich, comforting, and flavorful meal that comes together in just 30 minutes. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a weeknight meal, this recipe will impress with its velvety sauce, tender gnocchi, and bold Tuscan flavors. Serve it with bread and salad for a complete, restaurant-worthy experience at home.