If you’re craving a cozy Italian-style dinner that feels indulgent yet comes together fast, this Gnocchi with Creamy Sauce will be your new favorite comfort meal. In just 30 minutes, tender potato gnocchi are pan-seared and coated in a velvety garlic-Parmesan cream sauce that tastes straight out of a restaurant kitchen. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for weeknights or special dinners alike.
Why You’ll Love This Gnocchi with Creamy Sauce
- Quick & Easy: Ready in only 30 minutes with minimal prep.
- Rich & Comforting: Buttery garlic cream sauce hugs every bite.
- Customizable: Add chicken, shrimp, or veggies for variety.
- Restaurant-Quality: Silky texture, golden edges, and fresh herbs make it feel gourmet.
- Family-Friendly: Mild flavors everyone will love — no alcohol or pork needed.
Ingredients for Gnocchi with Creamy Sauce
For the Gnocchi
- 1 lb potato gnocchi (fresh or store-bought)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Creamy Sauce
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter sauce)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for gentle heat
Ingredient Notes & Healthy Swaps
- Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut cream or oat cream with vegan Parmesan.
- Lower Fat Version: Substitute heavy cream with evaporated milk or low-fat cream.
- Add Protein: Mix in cooked chicken breast, shrimp, or crispy tofu.
- Gluten-Free Tip: Use gluten-free gnocchi made from rice or cassava flour.
- Herb Variations: Thyme, basil, or sage work beautifully too.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Cook the Gnocchi
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook until they float to the surface (about 2–3 minutes). Drain well and set aside.
Step 2 – Sear for Golden Edges
Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cooked gnocchi in a single layer and pan-fry for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden and slightly crispy. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 3 – Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce
In the same pan, add a bit more butter if needed. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Pour in the cream, reduce heat, and let simmer for 3–5 minutes until it begins to thicken.
Step 4 – Add Parmesan & Herbs
Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, rosemary, and parsley. Continue cooking until smooth and silky. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Step 5 – Combine & Serve
Return the seared gnocchi to the skillet and gently toss to coat in the sauce. Let it simmer for another 1–2 minutes until everything is evenly coated and hot. Garnish with extra Parmesan and herbs before serving.
Pro Tips for Success
- Don’t overboil the gnocchi — remove them as soon as they float.
- Pan-sear for texture — golden edges make the dish irresistible.
- Use fresh Parmesan — it melts better and adds authentic flavor.
- Simmer gently — high heat can separate the cream.
- Reserve pasta water — add a splash to thin the sauce if it gets too thick.
- Serve immediately — gnocchi tastes best fresh and creamy.
Flavor Variations
- Spinach & Mushroom Gnocchi: Sauté mushrooms and spinach before adding the cream.
- Lemon Herb Gnocchi: Add a squeeze of lemon juice and zest for brightness.
- Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi: Add cooked shredded chicken and a touch of nutmeg.
- Spicy Tuscan Gnocchi: Mix in sun-dried tomatoes and red pepper flakes.
- Truffle Gnocchi: Add a drizzle of truffle oil for a gourmet twist.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with garlic bread or toasted baguette to soak up extra sauce.
- Serve alongside a fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette.
- Add a glass of sparkling water with lemon for a light, refreshing finish.
- Garnish with extra Parmesan and parsley for presentation.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of milk or cream.
- Freeze: Not recommended, as cream sauce can separate. For meal prep, freeze plain gnocchi and make the sauce fresh.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 460 kcal |
| Protein | 10 g |
| Carbohydrates | 45 g |
| Fat | 26 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 540 mg |
Easy Gnocchi with Creamy Sauce — 30-Minute Comfort Meal
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creamy garlic-Parmesan Gnocchi with crispy edges and a velvety sauce ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
1 lb potato gnocchi
2 tbsp butter
1 tbsp olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup Parmesan cheese
1 tsp rosemary, chopped
1 tsp parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
1. Boil gnocchi until they float; drain.
2. Sear gnocchi in butter and oil until golden.
3. Sauté garlic until fragrant.
4. Add cream and simmer to thicken.
5. Stir in Parmesan and herbs; season.
6. Toss gnocchi with sauce and serve.
Notes
Use half-and-half for lighter sauce.
Add mushrooms, spinach, or chicken for variation.
Use plant-based cream and cheese for vegan version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
FAQ About Gnocchi with Creamy Sauce
What is gnocchi made from?
Gnocchi are Italian dumplings traditionally made from mashed potatoes, flour, and eggs. Some versions use ricotta or sweet potatoes for unique textures.
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes! The cream sauce can be made up to a day ahead. Store it in the fridge and reheat gently before tossing with cooked gnocchi.
How do I keep gnocchi from getting soggy?
Avoid overboiling and drain them immediately once they float. Pan-searing helps create a crisp outside while keeping the inside fluffy.
Can I use store-bought gnocchi?
Absolutely — most store-bought gnocchi work perfectly. For the best texture, choose fresh refrigerated gnocchi rather than vacuum-packed.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, it’s vegetarian-friendly. For a vegan version, simply replace the dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Gnocchi with Creamy Sauce is proof that comfort food doesn’t have to take hours to make. With its golden edges, creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce, and delicate herbs, it’s the perfect 30-minute dish for cozy nights or elegant dinners alike. Whether you’re cooki
