Name: Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped; 1 package store-bought uncooked gnocchi; 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper; Salt to taste; Black pepper to taste; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup vegetable stock; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 3 cups baby spinach; Fresh basil for garnish

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The rich aroma of garlic dancing in warm butter fills the air, mingling with the earthy notes of sun-dried tomatoes and the vibrant freshness of spinach. Each bite of this creamy Tuscan gnocchi is a delightful blend of textures; the pillowy gnocchi contrasts beautifully with the luxurious cream sauce. As you twirl the gnocchi around your fork, the cheese melts gently onto your plate, beckoning you to indulge just one more time. This dish makes me think of cozy evenings spent in the kitchen, lost in laughter with friends while the world outside cools down for fall. There’s something about the heartiness of a warm meal that brings us all together, isn’t there?

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi

Perfect for any weeknight or as a comforting weekend treat, Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi is your go-to when you crave something satisfying and quick. With only one pan and a handful of ingredients, you’ll ease into dinner with joy, and I can’t wait for you to experience the deliciousness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Ready in just 20 minutes, you can whip this up even on busy nights.
Irresistible Flavor: Creamy, savory, and filled with umami from sun-dried tomatoes—what’s not to love?
Eye-Catching Appeal: The vibrant colors make this a show-stopping dish on any table.
Flexible Serving: Enjoy it as a meal on its own, or pair it with a side salad for something light.
Diet-Friendly Options: You can easily swap in gluten-free gnocchi or plant-based cream for a vegan version.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Butter: Use unsalted butter for the perfect flavor balance; it adds richness. You can substitute with olive oil for a dairy-free option.
Garlic: Fresh cloves give the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder works, but fresh is always better!
Gnocchi: Look for store-bought uncooked gnocchi; it’s quicker. You could make homemade for an elevated experience, but it takes more time.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These provide a sweet, tangy burst. Choose oil-packed for added flavor. If you need a substitute, roasted red peppers can work in a pinch.
Italian Seasoning: A classic blend that brings depth; if you don’t have it, use dried oregano and basil.
Crushed Red Pepper: Only if you enjoy a hint of heat! Adjust to your taste preference or omit it entirely for a milder dish.
Salt and Black Pepper: Basic seasoning enhances flavors. Always taste and adjust as needed.
Heavy Cream: It creates that luscious texture. Half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative can be used if you’re watching calories or avoiding dairy.
Vegetable Stock: Helps to lighten the sauce without losing depth. Chicken stock works too if that’s what you have on hand.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds that creamy, nutty finish. Freshly grated cheese is best; pre-grated may not melt as well.
Baby Spinach: It wilts beautifully into the sauce, introducing nutritional balance. Kale could work too, but be sure to chop it finely.
Fresh Basil: Ideal for garnish; it brightens the dish. If unavailable, dried basil can substitute, but use less since it’s more potent.

How to Make Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi

Melt Butter: Heat 3 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it bubbles, which should take about one minute. This step is crucial because it imparts a lovely flavor base to your dish, so let it get nice and frothy!

Sauté Garlic and Gnocchi: Toss in the finely chopped garlic and uncooked gnocchi, sautéing until most sides of the gnocchi turn a beautiful golden brown—around five minutes. Be patient; the garlic will fill your kitchen with an incredible aroma!

Add Flavorings: Now, incorporate the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper, salt, and black pepper. Give everything a good stir and let it cook together for 2-3 minutes until you can really smell all those delicious herbs and spices mingling together.

Create the Creamy Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream, vegetable stock, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir well to combine, and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, reducing the heat. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and the gnocchi are tender; it’ll be bubbling around the edges!

Add Spinach: Stir in 3 cups of baby spinach and cook until it wilts, which takes about one minute. Watching the spinach transform before your eyes is one of the best parts; it turns this dish into a vibrant masterpiece.

Garnish and Serve: Finish by garnishing with the finely sliced fresh basil. Serve immediately and dig into your creamy, one-pan wonder while it’s piping hot—you deserve it!

Storing & Reheating

For any leftovers of your creamy Tuscan gnocchi, make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container for storage in the refrigerator. It’ll stay fresh for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat in a saucepan over medium heat for about 5 minutes, adding a splash of vegetable stock or cream to refresh its creamy texture. If freezing, use a freezer-safe container and store for up to three months; you may notice slight changes in texture, but the flavors will still sing!

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Don’t Overcook the Gnocchi: If they turn mushy, they won’t provide that delightful texture; aim for just tender.
Use Cool Tools: If using canned sun-dried tomatoes, drain the oil; otherwise, it can make your sauce too oily.
Experiment with Greens: Feel free to swap spinach for other greens like arugula or Swiss chard—make it your own!
Add Protein: For an extra heartiness, toss in grilled chicken or shrimp for a filling meal.
Adjust Creaminess: If you want it lighter, swap half of the heavy cream for an equal part of vegetable stock!

This creamy Tuscan gnocchi offers a well-rounded meal that melds flavors beautifully while bringing comfort and warmth. Whether you follow the recipe exactly or put your spin on it, you’ll create an unforgettable dish that’s bound to impress.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Absolutely! Store-bought uncooked gnocchi is perfect for this recipe since it saves time and makes meal prep a breeze. Opt for a quality brand for the best texture and flavor; it cooks quickly and absorbs all the delicious sauce.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, you can! Substitute gnocchi with a gluten-free version if necessary, and use a dairy-free cream alternative like cashew cream or coconut cream. Just be cautious with flavored options, as they can alter the dish’s overall taste.

What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?

If you find yourself without sun-dried tomatoes, roasted peppers can work as a substitute, providing a different but delightful sweetness. Alternatively, you can omit them and add a splash of balsamic vinegar for depth.

Can I make this in advance?

You can prepare the creamy sauce and keep it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook the gnocchi and combine with the sauce. This way, you’ll save time while still enjoying that fresh, vibrant flavor!