Gnocchi, those soft and pillowy Italian dumplings, are a staple in many a comfort food lover’s kitchen. But when you combine them with rich and creamy sauces, the result is nothing short of heavenly. In this article, we’ll be diving into the world of creamy gnocchi recipes that will warm your heart and fill your belly.
From classic combinations like garlic parmesan and spinach ricotta to more adventurous pairings like truffle oil and wild mushrooms, these 20 recipes are sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and creamy or hearty and indulgent, we’ve got a gnocchi recipe that’s sure to hit the spot.
So go ahead, get cozy, and let the comfort food magic begin!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Gnocchi
Satisfy your cravings with this creamy, cheesy, and flavorful gnocchi recipe. With a blend of tender potato dumplings, aromatic garlic, and parmesan goodness, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of gnocchi (about 12 oz)
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of heavy cream
– 1/2 cup of grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine with garlic and butter. Bring mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and add cooked gnocchi, stirring to coat with creamy sauce.
5. Remove from heat and sprinkle with parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Ricotta Gnocchi Bake
A creamy and comforting casserole that combines the simplicity of homemade gnocchi with the richness of spinach and ricotta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 package store-bought or homemade gnocchi
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions or until tender.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked gnocchi, chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Transfer the gnocchi mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle breadcrumbs on top.
5. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Brown Butter Sage Gnocchi
This recipe combines the warmth of brown butter with the earthy flavor of sage to create a rich and comforting dish perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound potato gnocchi (homemade or store-bought)
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions or until they float to the surface.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add the sage leaves to the skillet and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
4. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until it forms a brown, nutty sauce.
5. Drain the cooked gnocchi and add them to the skillet with the brown butter sauce. Toss to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Gnocchi with Mushroom Cream Sauce
Savor the comforting flavors of Italy with this simple yet indulgent gnocchi dish, paired with a rich mushroom cream sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound potato gnocchi
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let sauce thicken slightly, about 5 minutes.
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Combine cooked gnocchi and mushroom cream sauce. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pumpkin Gnocchi with Sage Butter
A seasonal twist on traditional gnocchi, these soft and pillowy pumpkin dumplings are served with a rich sage butter sauce. Perfect for fall and winter gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), cooked and mashed
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup semolina flour
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Salt, to taste
– Sage butter sauce:
+ 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
+ 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
+ Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed pumpkin, flours, and egg. Mix until a dough forms.
2. Knead the dough for 5 minutes, until smooth and pliable.
3. Cut into small pieces and roll out each piece into a long rope.
4. Cut ropes into 1-inch pieces to form gnocchi.
5. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook gnocchi for 3-5 minutes or until they float.
6. While gnocchi cook, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped sage and season with salt.
7. Toss cooked gnocchi with sage butter sauce and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gnocchi Mac and Cheese
Transforming pasta night into a cozy indulgence, this recipe combines the comfort of macaroni and cheese with the pillowy softness of gnocchi. Get ready for a rich, velvety, and utterly satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound gnocchi
– 8 ounces macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook gnocchi and macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened.
5. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, cheese sauce, and a pinch of salt. Toss until well coated.
7. Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Tomato Basil Gnocchi Soup
This classic Italian-inspired soup combines tender gnocchi with the bright flavors of fresh tomatoes and basil, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound gnocchi
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the surface. Reserve.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion and cook until translucent, 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Stir in chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and heavy cream. Bring mixture to a simmer.
4. Add cooked gnocchi to the pot and stir to combine. Season with salt, pepper, and chopped basil.
5. Simmer soup for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gnocchi Alfredo with Broccoli
This classic Italian dish gets a nutritious boost with the addition of steamed broccoli florets. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal cooking time, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound gnocchi
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the surface. Reserve.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat to low and let sauce thicken slightly (about 5 minutes).
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add steamed broccoli florets to the sauce and stir gently to combine.
6. Toss cooked gnocchi in the creamy Alfredo sauce with broccoli until well coated.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto Gnocchi with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This recipe combines the comfort of homemade gnocchi with the bright flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and creamy pesto. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked potato, mashed
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Salt, to taste
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine mashed potato, flour, and egg. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope.
4. Cut the ropes into 1-inch pieces to form gnocchi.
5. Place gnocchi on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly browned.
7. Toss cooked gnocchi with pesto sauce and sun-dried tomatoes. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Gnocchi Carbonara with Pancetta
This Italian-inspired dish combines soft gnocchi with a rich and creamy sauce made with pancetta, eggs, and Parmesan cheese. The result is a comforting and indulgent meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen gnocchi
– 6 slices pancetta, diced
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the gnocchi according to package instructions or until they float to the surface.
2. In a large skillet, cook the pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and black pepper.
4. Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet with the pancetta and toss to combine.
5. Pour in the egg mixture and stir constantly over low heat until the sauce thickens and coats the gnocchi.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lobster Gnocchi in Creamy Sauce
Savor the rich flavors of Maine lobster paired with pillowy gnocchi and a velvety sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lobster meat, flaked
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup semolina
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, semolina, and salt.
3. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture; add milk, egg, and butter. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5 minutes, then divide into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a log shape.
5. Cut the logs into 1-inch pieces to form gnocchi.
6. Cook gnocchi in boiling salted water for 3-5 minutes or until they float; drain.
7. In a saucepan, combine heavy cream, garlic, and cooked lobster meat. Simmer over medium heat until heated through.
8. Add cooked gnocchi to the creamy sauce and toss to coat.
9. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gnocchi with Roasted Butternut Squash
This recipe combines the warmth of roasted butternut squash with the tender goodness of homemade gnocchi, perfect for a cozy fall evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup semolina flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine flours, salt, and egg. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
5. Cut into small pieces (about 1 inch) and cook in boiling water for 3-5 minutes or until they float.
6. Drain gnocchi and toss with roasted squash, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours (including roasting time)
Truffle Oil Gnocchi with Wild Mushrooms
Truffle Oil Gnocchi with Wild Mushrooms Recipe
Summary: This decadent pasta dish combines the earthy flavors of wild mushrooms with the luxurious richness of truffle oil, all wrapped up in pillowy gnocchi.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound potato gnocchi
– 2 cups mixed wild mushrooms (such as chanterelle, cremini, and shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup truffle oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the surface.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the butter, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
4. Stir in the truffle oil and cook for an additional minute.
5. Drain the cooked gnocchi and add them to the skillet with the mushroom mixture. Toss to combine, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gnocchi in Creamy Tomato Vodka Sauce
Get ready to treat your taste buds with this rich and velvety pasta dish, featuring soft gnocchi tossed in a creamy tomato vodka sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound potato gnocchi
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons vodka
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the surface. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
4. Pour in the canned diced tomatoes, heavy cream, vodka, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Simmer the sauce for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
6. Add the cooked gnocchi to the sauce, tossing to coat. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gnocchi with Gorgonzola and Walnuts
This rich and satisfying dish combines tender gnocchi with a tangy gorgonzola sauce, crunchy walnuts, and a hint of nutmeg. Perfect for a cozy dinner party or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh gnocchi
– 8 ounces gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon heavy cream
– Salt and nutmeg to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the surface. Reserve.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in the crumbled gorgonzola and chopped walnuts. Cook until the cheese is melted and smooth.
4. Add the heavy cream and stir until combined. Season with salt and nutmeg to taste.
5. Toss the cooked gnocchi with the sauce until well coated. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken and Gnocchi in Creamy Garlic Sauce
This hearty dish combines tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich creamy garlic sauce that’s sure to become a weeknight favorite. With minimal prep time and quick cooking, this recipe is perfect for busy evenings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup cooked gnocchi
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
5. Pour in heavy cream and Dijon mustard. Stir to combine.
6. Simmer sauce for 2-3 minutes or until thickened slightly.
7. Add cooked gnocchi and stir to coat with sauce.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gnocchi with Shrimp and Lemon Butter
Experience the perfect combination of tender gnocchi, succulent shrimp, and a bright citrusy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound gnocchi (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions or until they float to the surface.
2. In a medium skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside. Leave the garlic butter sauce in the pan.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Pour the lemon butter mixture into the garlic butter sauce and stir to combine.
6. Add cooked gnocchi to the skillet with the lemon butter sauce and toss to coat.
7. Return shrimp to the skillet and toss everything together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Gnocchi in Creamy Pesto Alfredo
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and creamy gnocchi dish, infused with the flavors of Italy’s famous pesto sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 package store-bought or homemade gnocchi
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Freshly ground nutmeg, to taste (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions or homemade recipe.
2. In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Stir in chopped basil and cook for an additional minute.
4. Remove from heat and whisk in Parmesan cheese.
5. In a separate pot, combine heavy cream and cooked gnocchi. Toss to coat the pasta evenly.
6. Add the pesto mixture and stir until well combined. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
7. Serve immediately, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Gnocchi with Sausage and Peppers
Savoring the Flavors of Italy: Gnocchi with Sausage and Peppers
This hearty dish combines the simplicity of gnocchi with the richness of sausage and peppers. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend meal, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 package store-bought or homemade gnocchi
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large bell peppers, sliced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking apart with spoon as it cooks.
4. Add peppers and onion to the skillet; cook until vegetables are tender.
5. Stir in garlic and crushed tomatoes.
6. Combine cooked gnocchi with sausage and pepper mixture.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Gnocchi with Creamy Pumpkin Sauce
This seasonal twist on traditional gnocchi combines the warmth of pumpkin with the comfort of creamy sauce, perfect for a cozy fall evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound potato gnocchi (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in pumpkin puree, heavy cream, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Bring mixture to a simmer.
4. Add cooked gnocchi to the skillet, tossing gently to combine with the sauce.
5. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the comforting world of gnocchi with these 20 creamy recipes! From classic combinations like Garlic Parmesan and Gnocchi Mac and Cheese, to bold flavors like Lobster Gnocchi and Truffle Oil Gnocchi, there’s something for everyone. Discover how to elevate your pasta game with dishes like Spinach and Ricotta Gnocchi Bake, Pesto Gnocchi with Sun-Dried Tomatoes, and Chicken and Gnocchi in Creamy Garlic Sauce. Perfect for cozy nights in or special occasions, these recipes will become new favorites.
Leave a Reply