Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Gnocchi with Spinach recipe. Prepare to be swept away by the delicate, pillowy gnocchi nestled in a decadent, velvety sauce, accented by the vibrant flavors of fresh spinach and the elegant touch of Parmesan. This dish is a celebration of refined indulgence and culinary sophistication.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Gnocchi with Spinach
Prepare to be captivated by the harmonious blend of flavors and textures in this recipe. The creamy, garlic-infused sauce envelops the tender gnocchi, creating a luxurious and satisfying experience. The addition of fresh spinach not only adds a beautiful pop of color but also a delicate, nutritious element to balance the richness. This dish is a true testament to the power of simple, high-quality ingredients elevated by skilled culinary techniques, resulting in a meal that is both comforting and elegantly refined.
Ingredients
The key to this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Gnocchi with Spinach recipe is the use of fresh, high-quality ingredients. You’ll need gnocchi, garlic, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, spinach, and a few pantry staples to create this indulgent dish.
- 1 lb – Potato Gnocchi
- 3 cloves – Garlic, minced
- 1 cup – Heavy Cream
- 1 cup – Grated Parmesan Cheese, plus more for garnish
- 4 cups – Fresh Spinach Leaves
Ingredient Substitutions
- Gnocchi: Sweet potato or ricotta gnocchi — a refined swap that keeps the balance.
- Heavy Cream: Half-and-half or plant-based milk alternative — perfect for dietary or texture variation.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Gnocchi with Spinach
Let’s dive into the step-by-step process to create this delightful dish.
Step 1 — Prep Work
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Gently drop the gnocchi into the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, usually around 2-3 minutes, until they rise to the surface. Drain the gnocchi and set them aside.
Step 2 — Main Cooking Process
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, being careful not to burn. Gradually pour in the heavy cream, whisking constantly to create a smooth, creamy sauce. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and incorporated.
Step 3 — Final Steps/Assembly
Gently fold the cooked gnocchi and fresh spinach into the creamy Parmesan sauce, ensuring the ingredients are evenly distributed. Allow the spinach to wilt and the flavors to meld, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 4 — Finishing Touches
Season the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Gnocchi with Spinach with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. For an extra touch of elegance, you can garnish the dish with a sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese and a few fresh spinach leaves.
Chef Tips & Variations
- Protein Addition: For a heartier meal, you can sauté diced chicken or shrimp and add it to the gnocchi mixture.
- Textural Contrast: To add more texture, sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs or crushed walnuts over the top.
- Spicy Twist: If you prefer a spicier twist, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil.
- Mushroom Medley: Sauté a variety of mushrooms and fold them into the creamy sauce for an earthy, umami-rich version.
Serving & Storage
Serve with: a crisp green salad or a slice of crusty bread to soak up every last bit of the decadent sauce.
Storage: Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Gently reheat the dish on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Make-Ahead: This dish can be prepared in advance, with the sauce and gnocchi stored separately. Toss them together just before serving for a quick and effortless meal.
Nutrition Information
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Gnocchi with Spinach recipe is a balanced and satisfying meal, with the pillowy gnocchi providing a source of complex carbohydrates, the spinach contributing essential vitamins and minerals, and the Parmesan and cream offering a dose of protein and healthy fats. Each serving is a delightful indulgence that nourishes both the body and the soul.
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe
- Calories: 567 kcal
- Protein: 21 g
- Carbs: 51 g
- Fat: 34 g
- Sodium: 673 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought gnocchi?
Absolutely! This recipe works perfectly well with high-quality, store-bought gnocchi, saving you the time and effort of making it from scratch.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To create a vegan version of this dish, simply substitute the dairy products with plant-based alternatives, such as cashew cream or coconut milk for the heavy cream, and a dairy-free Parmesan-style cheese.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Look for gluten-free gnocchi or use a gluten-free flour blend to make your own gnocchi. Additionally, ensure that all other ingredients, such as the Parmesan cheese, are also gluten-free.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
While the gnocchi may hold up well in the freezer, the creamy sauce may separate or become grainy upon reheating. For best results, enjoy any leftovers within 3 days and reheat them gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
What can I serve with this dish?
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Gnocchi with Spinach pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or a simple side of roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the dish.
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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Gnocchi with Spinach
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the creamy richness of garlic parmesan gnocchi, perfectly balanced with fresh spinach. A refined comfort dish that brings elegance to your table.
Ingredients
1 pound gnocchi
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups fresh spinach
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Add cooked gnocchi and spinach, stirring until spinach wilts.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
Pair with a crisp white wine for an elegant dining experience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Pasta, Noodles & Gnocchi
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 80mg