Creamy tuscan gnocchi is a simple flavorful meal. This dish features soft gnocchi, delicate spinach, zesty sun-dried tomatoes, rich butter, and aromatic garlic. Plus, it comes together effortlessly in just one pan in about 15 minutes. This recipe is pure comfort food, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s the kind of meal that feels best enjoyed from a warm, inviting bowl.
Ingredients for this creamy tuscan gnocchi
This ingredient list ensures a flavorful, creamy, and well-balanced creamy tuscan gnocchi dish, as well as possible substitutions:
Butter: One tablespoon of butter adds richness and depth of flavor to the dish.
Garlic: Use 2-3 minced garlic cloves to infuse the sauce with a fragrant, savory taste.
Heavy cream: Three-fourths of a cup of heavy cream creates a smooth and luscious sauce. Half-and-half can be used instead, though the sauce may be thinner.
Chicken or vegetable broth: Two-thirds of a cup of broth provides extra depth. For a vegetarian version, opt for vegetable broth or stock. A splash of white wine can also be used for added complexity.
Potato gnocchi: One pound of shelf-stable gnocchi (found in the dry pasta aisle) is ideal for this one-pan cooking method.
Sun-dried tomatoes: One-third of a cup of oil-packed, julienned sun-dried tomatoes gives a tangy and slightly sweet flavor. If whole sun-dried tomatoes are available, simply chop them into thin strips.
Parmesan cheese: Half a cup of freshly grated Parmesan helps thicken the sauce and enhances the overall taste. Pre-grated cheese may not melt as smoothly.
Lemon juice: One teaspoon of lemon juice brightens the dish and balances the creamy texture. While optional, it enhances the flavor.
Salt and black pepper: Add to taste to enhance and balance the flavors.
Spinach: One to two cups of fresh baby spinach contribute a pop of color and a mild earthy taste. If preferred, another leafy green can be used as a substitute.
Fresh basil: Used as an optional garnish, fresh basil adds a fresh, aromatic finishing touch.
Step-by-step instructions
Melt the butter: To begin, heat a large skillet, saucepan, or pot over medium heat and add the butter. Allow the butter to melt completely, ensuring it coats the bottom of the pan evenly for even cooking.
Sauté the garlic: Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and stir it gently to release its aroma. Let it cook for about 30-60 seconds until its fragrance fills the air, being careful not to let it burn.
Prepare the sauce: Pour the heavy cream and broth into the skillet, stirring well to combine all the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to blend together and create a rich, creamy base for the dish.
Add the gnocchi and sun-dried tomatoes: Gently mix the uncooked gnocchi and sun-dried tomatoes into the simmering sauce. Make sure the gnocchi is evenly coated with the creamy base to ensure a well-balanced flavor and perfect texture.
Cook covered: Cover the skillet with a lid and let the ingredients cook undisturbed for about four minutes. During this time, the steam will help soften the gnocchi while allowing it to absorb the delicious flavors of the sauce.
Check for doneness: After four minutes, remove the lid and stir the mixture thoroughly to distribute the heat evenly. Test a piece of gnocchi; if it is still firm, continue cooking uncovered while stirring occasionally until it becomes tender.
Incorporate spinach and cheese: Once the gnocchi has softened, add fresh spinach, grated Parmesan cheese, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Stir everything together until the cheese melts, and the spinach begins to wilt, adding color and freshness to the dish.
Season to taste: Sprinkle salt and black pepper over the dish, adjusting the seasoning to your liking. Mix well to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the sauce, enhancing the overall taste.
Remove from heat: Turn off the heat once the spinach has softened and the sauce has thickened slightly. Let the dish sit for a minute to allow the flavors to fully develop and meld together.
Garnish and serve: Finally, top the gnocchi with freshly chopped basil and extra Parmesan cheese for added flavor and a beautiful presentation. Serve immediately and enjoy this rich and creamy Tuscan-inspired meal.
Storage & Reheating leftovers
Tuscan gnocchi stores well and is easy to reheat. Any leftovers will likely be enjoyed quickly!
You can keep individual servings or a larger portion in an airtight container in the refrigerator for three to four days. When ready to eat, reheat it in the microwave at full power until thoroughly warmed or on the stovetop over medium heat.
As the dish cools, the sauce will naturally become thicker. If you find it too thick after reheating, simply add one to two teaspoons of broth and stir while warming until it reaches your preferred consistency.
Serving suggestions
This gnocchi dish is incredibly filling, making it best to keep the side dishes light. A simple salad or steamed vegetables will complement it wonderfully.
If you’re serving a group, you can easily make this meal more substantial by pairing it with breadsticks or garlic bread. Another great option is to mix in some shredded chicken to add extra protein and texture.
Frequently asked questions
What is gnocchi?
Many people consider gnocchi to be a type of pasta, but in reality, they are small dumplings typically made from riced potatoes. Potato gnocchi, also known as gnocchi di patate, are a staple in Italian and Italian-inspired cuisine because, when cooked properly, they are soft, airy, and surprisingly both light and satisfying.
There are also various other kinds of gnocchi, including those made with ricotta cheese or butternut squash as the main ingredient. Additionally, Roman gnocchi, which are crafted from semolina flour, differ significantly in shape and texture from traditional potato-based versions.
Which sauce works well with gnocchi?
The texture and shape of gnocchi, with their small, ridged surfaces, make them ideal for rich and creamy sauces that cling well. A classic option is a smooth, cream-based sauce like the one featured in this recipe. If you’re looking to experiment with different flavors, consider pairing gnocchi with a velvety pesto sauce or a bold vodka sauce. However, gnocchi are highly adaptable and can also be enjoyed with simpler preparations, such as a fragrant brown butter sage sauce.
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