why make this recipe

Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi is a delightful dish that brings together comforting flavors and textures. It’s a quick and easy meal perfect for busy weeknights while still being impressive enough for a dinner with friends. The combination of soft gnocchi, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach, paired with a creamy sauce, makes it simply irresistible. Plus, it can be made in one skillet, so cleanup is a breeze!

how to make Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi

Ingredients:

1 Tablespoon butter
2-3 cloves garlic (minced)
3/4 cup heavy cream
2/3 cup chicken or veggie broth
1 pound potato gnocchi (uncooked)
1/3 cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes (julienne style)
1/2 cup freshly-grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon lemon juice
kosher salt and black pepper
1-2 cups fresh baby spinach
fresh basil (optional garnish)

Directions:

Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Make sure to use a skillet with a lid.
Add minced garlic and cook for 30-60 seconds until it becomes fragrant.
Stir in the heavy cream and broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Add the uncooked gnocchi and sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet. Cover and cook for 4 minutes without stirring.
After 4 minutes, uncover the pan, stir well, and test a gnocchi. Continue cooking, uncovered, and stir frequently until the gnocchi is tender and the sauce has thickened slightly.
Once the gnocchi is ready, stir in the fresh spinach, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Start with about 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 8-10 cranks of black pepper, adjusting as desired.
When the spinach wilts, take the pan off the heat.
Garnish with fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Serve and enjoy!

how to serve Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi

Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi is best served hot. You can place it in shallow bowls for a beautiful presentation. Consider serving it with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad to round out the meal. This dish is rich and creamy, so be sure to have some extra grated Parmesan cheese on hand for those who want it!

how to store Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi

If you have leftovers, let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of broth or cream to help loosen the sauce.

tips to make Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi

Make sure not to overcook the gnocchi; aim for a tender texture without being mushy.
For added flavor, you can sauté some onions or shallots along with the garlic.
Feel free to use fresh herbs like oregano or thyme for an extra layer of flavor.
If you want a little spice, consider adding red pepper flakes to the sauce.

variation

If you’d like to switch things up, try adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or mushrooms for some protein. You can also substitute the sun-dried tomatoes for roasted red peppers or even artichoke hearts for a different taste.

FAQs

Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Yes, you can use frozen gnocchi. Just cook them according to the package instructions before adding them to the sauce.

Can I make this recipe healthy?
You can use a lower-fat cream or replace some of the cream with more broth. Adding more vegetables, like zucchini or bell peppers, can also make it healthier.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy cream, such as coconut cream or cashew cream.