Description

This Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi is a luscious and comforting Italian-inspired dish featuring golden sautéed gnocchi simmered in a rich and flavorful cream sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, fresh spinach, and Parmesan cheese. Enhanced with Italian seasoning and a touch of crushed red pepper, it delivers a perfect balance of creamy, savory, and slightly spicy flavors. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a quick and satisfying meal ideal for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

3 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 pound gnocchi, uncooked
¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper (or to taste)
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup vegetable stock
¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
3 cups baby spinach
2 tablespoons fresh basil, finely sliced

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Instructions

Melt Butter: Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until bubbly, about 1 minute to ensure an even cooking base for the gnocchi.
Sauté Gnocchi and Garlic: Add the finely chopped garlic and uncooked gnocchi to the skillet. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the gnocchi turns golden brown on most sides, stirring occasionally. The gnocchi does not need to be cooked through at this stage.
Add Seasonings and Tomatoes: Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant and flavors meld together.
Create Cream Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream, vegetable stock, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir thoroughly and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to medium and cook, stirring often, until the sauce thickens and the gnocchi becomes tender, about 2 to 3 minutes.
Add Spinach: Incorporate the baby spinach into the skillet and cook until wilted, approximately 1 minute, blending the fresh greens into the creamy sauce.
Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with freshly sliced basil, and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free gnocchi instead of traditional gnocchi.
Adjust crushed red pepper quantities according to your preferred spice level.
To make this dish vegetarian, ensure the Parmesan used is free from animal rennet.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to prevent the cream sauce from breaking.
Adding mushrooms or grilled chicken can enhance the protein content and make a heartier meal.