Creamy Gnocchi with Spinach (Printable Version)
Tender gnocchi tossed in a luscious garlic cream sauce with fresh spinach and Parmesan. A comforting, quick Italian-inspired meal.
# What You Need:
→ Gnocchi
01 - 1 lb potato gnocchi (fresh or shelf-stable)
→ Vegetables
02 - 5 oz fresh baby spinach, washed
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
→ Dairy
05 - 3/4 cup plus 2 tbsp heavy cream
06 - 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
07 - 1 tbsp unsalted butter
→ Seasonings
08 - 1/2 tsp salt (plus more for gnocchi water)
09 - 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
10 - Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
→ Garnish (optional)
11 - Extra Parmesan cheese
12 - Freshly ground black pepper
# How-To Steps:
01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions, usually about 2–3 minutes, until they float. Drain and set aside.
02 - Meanwhile, in a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until translucent.
03 - Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly so it doesn't burn.
04 - Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
05 - Add the spinach and cook, stirring, until wilted, about 1–2 minutes.
06 - Stir in the grated Parmesan until melted and the sauce is smooth.
07 - Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet and toss gently to coat in the sauce. Warm through for 1–2 minutes.
08 - Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and black pepper.
# Helpful Tips:
01 -
- It's astonishing how something so rich and satisfying can be on your table in less than 30 minutes.
- The way the creamy sauce clings to every pillowy gnocchi and the fresh spinach adds a vibrant balance is simply irresistible.
02 -
- Overcooking gnocchi can turn them into mushy blobs; watch them closely and pull them out as soon as they float.
- Using freshly grated Parmesan makes a remarkable difference in the sauce's texture and flavor; the pre-shredded stuff just doesn't melt the same.
03 -
- Have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you even turn on the stove; this dish moves fast!
- If your sauce seems too thick, a splash of the gnocchi cooking water can help thin it out and emulsify it beautifully.