Name: Marry Me Gnocchi Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 teaspoon salt (more to taste); 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, drained); 1 (16-ounce) package potato gnocchi; 2 cups baby spinach; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; Extra Parmesan cheese; Fresh basil leaves

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Introduction

Marry Me Gnocchi is a creamy, comforting dish packed with rich flavors from sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil. This easy one-pan meal comes together quickly, making it perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

A white bowl filled with creamy orange-brown gnocchi sauce, where plump gnocchi pieces are covered in a thick smooth sauce with small bits of seasoning. Fresh green basil leaves are scattered on top, adding a bright contrast to the warm colors. Grated white cheese is sprinkled evenly, adding texture and a little shine. A silver fork rests inside the bowl, holding one gnocchi piece, with some sauce on the bowl’s edge. The bowl is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt (more to taste)
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, drained)
1 (16-ounce) package potato gnocchi
2 cups baby spinach
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Extra Parmesan and basil for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil and butter until melted and sizzling.
Step 2: Add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Step 3: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts and the sauce slightly thickens.
Step 4: Season the sauce with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 5: Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and gnocchi. Let it simmer for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gnocchi is tender and the sauce has thickened.
Step 6: Add the baby spinach and stir until wilted.
Step 7: Stir in the chopped fresh basil just before serving.
Step 8: Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh basil. Serve hot.

Tips & Variations

For a vegetarian version, substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth and use vegetarian Parmesan cheese.
Add cooked grilled chicken or Italian sausage for extra protein.
If you like it spicier, increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried for a lighter taste, but reduce the amount of chicken broth slightly.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if the sauce thickens too much.

How to Serve

A close-up view of creamy gnocchi in a deep white bowl with a black rim. The dish shows soft, round gnocchi pieces covered in a thick, reddish-brown sauce with bits of sun-dried tomatoes and herbs mixed throughout. The sauce has a rich, smooth texture with speckles of black pepper and finely chopped greens. Fresh green basil leaves are scattered on top and mixed in, adding a bright contrast to the warm colors. A spoon lifting a portion of gnocchi is visible on the right side, filled with several gnocchi pieces coated evenly in the sauce, captured on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?

Yes, frozen gnocchi can be used directly in the sauce. Just add a couple of extra minutes to the simmering time to ensure they are cooked through.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can substitute half-and-half mixed with a little butter, or use full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative, though the flavor and texture will vary slightly.