Description
Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi
This quick and delicious Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi is inspired by classic Italian flavors, with a twist that makes it perfect for any busy evening. Imagine soft gnocchi cooked directly in a rich, creamy sauce, absorbing the flavors of butter, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach—all in just one pan. With each bite, the tanginess of the sun-dried tomatoes paired with a hint of lemon brightens the dish, bringing a comforting yet sophisticated flavor, reminiscent of a Tuscan dinner you’d find at your favorite restaurant.
1 tbsp butter
2-3 cloves garlic, minced
3/4 cup heavy cream
2/3 cup chicken or veggie broth
1 lb potato gnocchi
1/3 cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, julienne
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 tsp lemon juice
Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
1-2 cups fresh baby spinach
Fresh basil (optional)
Directions:
1. Melt butter in skillet over medium heat. Add garlic; sauté 30-60 sec.
2. Stir in cream and broth. Add gnocchi and sun-dried tomatoes; cover, cook 4 min.
3. Stir in spinach, Parmesan, and lemon juice. Season to taste.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Kcal: 440
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi every time. Start by gathering all ingredients. Use a large, deep skillet with a tight-fitting lid. Melt the butter over medium heat, ensuring it doesn’t brown. Add the minced garlic and sauté just until fragrant, about 30-60 seconds, to avoid bitterness. Pour in the heavy cream and broth, stirring to combine. Immediately add the entire package of gnocchi and the sun-dried tomatoes, stirring to submerge. Cover the skillet and let it cook undisturbed for exactly 4 minutes—this steams the gnocchi directly in the sauce. Uncover, reduce heat to low, and stir in the fresh spinach until wilted. Finally, turn off the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan and lemon juice. The residual heat will melt the cheese into a smooth sauce. Taste and season generously with salt and black pepper.
Serving Suggestions
This rich dish pairs beautifully with simple sides. Serve it in shallow bowls with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. For a heartier meal, add a side of grilled chicken or shrimp. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, extra Parmesan, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. A slice of crusty bread is essential for soaking up every bit of the delicious sauce.
How-to Summary
In summary, this is a one-pan meal where gnocchi cooks directly in a creamy garlic sauce. Sauté garlic in butter, add cream and broth, then stir in gnocchi and tomatoes. Cover and cook for 4 minutes. Finish by wilting spinach and stirring in Parmesan and lemon juice off the heat. Season and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use dried gnocchi instead of fresh? Yes, but cooking time may increase by 1-2 minutes. Check for doneness—gnocchi should be tender and floating.
- How can I make this dish vegetarian? Ensure you use vegetable broth and confirm your Parmesan cheese is made without animal rennet if strictly vegetarian.
- What can I substitute for heavy cream? Full-fat coconut milk or a lower-fat alternative like half-and-half can work, but the sauce will be less rich and thick.
- How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce.
- Can I add protein to this recipe? Absolutely. Sliced Italian sausage or shredded rotisserie chicken can be added with the gnocchi to heat through.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the garlic: Burnt garlic turns bitter. Sauté only until fragrant.
- Using pre-grated Parmesan: It often contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy. Always grate fresh.
- Stirring too soon: Avoid stirring the gnocchi during the covered cooking period; let the steam do its work.
- Adding spinach with the gnocchi: This will overcook the spinach. Add it at the end to just wilt.
- Boiling the sauce: Keep the heat at medium or low after adding the cream to prevent separation.
Conclusion
This Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi is the ultimate one-pan wonder, delivering restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. Its rich, velvety sauce, vibrant pops of sun-dried tomato, and fresh spinach create a comforting and impressive dish perfect for any night of the week. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can master this recipe and enjoy a taste of Tuscany at home.