As the weather starts to cool down, our thoughts turn to comforting, indulgent meals that warm the heart and soul. And what better way to achieve this than with a plate of creamy, pillowy gnocchi? These Italian dumplings are a staple in many cuisines around the world, and when paired with rich, creamy sauces, they become truly irresistible.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 different creamy gnocchi recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From classic combinations like garlic butter parmesan and creamy sun-dried tomato, to more adventurous options like truffle oil and mushroom, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re in the mood for a rich and decadent Alfredo sauce or a light and refreshing lemon-garlic shrimp, we’ve got you covered.
So grab your fork, get cozy, and let’s dive into the world of creamy gnocchi!
Garlic Butter Parmesan Gnocchi
This rich and satisfying recipe combines the comfort of gnocchi with the bold flavors of garlic, butter, and parmesan cheese. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound gnocchi
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 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 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Add the reserved pasta water and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
4. Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet, tossing to coat with the garlic butter sauce.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Gnocchi
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy sun-dried tomato gnocchi recipe, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion. Rich and flavorful, these bite-sized dumplings are infused with the warmth of sun-dried tomatoes and the comfort of a creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup semolina flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine flours, salt, and pepper.
3. Gradually add warm water, forming a dough.
4. Knead for 5 minutes, then divide into 4 pieces.
5. Roll out each piece into a long rope, cutting into 1-inch pieces.
6. Cook gnocchi in boiling water for 3-4 minutes or until they float.
7. In a skillet, melt butter and sauté sun-dried tomatoes for 2 minutes.
8. Add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until smooth.
9. Serve cooked gnocchi with creamy sauce and garnish with parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Ricotta Gnocchi Bake
This recipe combines the creamy richness of ricotta cheese with the earthy sweetness of spinach, all wrapped up in a comforting baked dish. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of gnocchi (about 12 oz)
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add spinach leaves and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked gnocchi, wilted spinach, ricotta cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well to combine.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Brown Butter Sage Gnocchi
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and earthy brown butter sage gnocchi recipe, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup semolina flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage leaves
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine flours and salt.
3. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and add egg, olive oil, and butter. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes, until smooth and pliable.
5. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope.
6. Cut the ropes into 1-inch (2.5 cm) pieces. Press the tines of a fork gently onto each gnocchi to create texture.
7. Cook the gnocchi in boiling, salted water for 3-5 minutes or until they float.
8. Melt butter and sage leaves in a skillet over medium heat. Add cooked gnocchi and toss to coat.
9. Serve hot with Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto Gnocchi with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes
A classic Italian combination gets a flavorful boost with the addition of roasted cherry tomatoes and creamy pesto. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package gnocchi
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly made pesto (or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss cherry tomatoes with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until tomatoes are tender.
4. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. In a large skillet, combine roasted cherry tomatoes and pesto. Stir to combine.
6. Add cooked gnocchi to the skillet and toss with tomato-pesto mixture.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Mushroom and Thyme Gnocchi in White Wine Sauce
Experience the comfort of homemade gnocchi paired with the earthy flavor of mushrooms and the warmth of thyme, all bathed in a rich white wine sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked potato, mashed
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Fresh thyme leaves, chopped (optional)
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed potato, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Roll out the dough into long ropes and cut into 1-inch pieces.
4. Cook gnocchi in boiling water for 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
5. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms and garlic in butter until tender. Add white wine and heavy cream; simmer for 2-3 minutes.
6. Serve cooked gnocchi with mushroom sauce, topped with chopped thyme and Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Four Cheese Gnocchi Alfredo
Experience the ultimate comfort food with this rich and creamy pasta dish, featuring tender gnocchi smothered in a decadent four-cheese Alfredo sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of store-bought or homemade gnocchi
– 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1 cup (250g) grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup (120g) grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/4 cup (60g) grated Cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup (60g) crumbled Feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions or homemade recipe. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat to low and stir in Parmesan, Gruyère, Cheddar, and Feta cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Combine cooked gnocchi and cheese sauce. Toss until well coated.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Gnocchi
This recipe combines the classic comfort of gnocchi with the vibrant flavors of lemon and garlic, adding succulent shrimp for a satisfying main course. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package gnocchi
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 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 garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add lemon juice and stir to combine. Simmer for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Combine cooked gnocchi with the lemon-garlic sauce and toss to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sage
Roasted Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sage Recipe
Summary: This seasonal recipe combines the comforting flavors of roasted butternut squash and sage to create a unique and delicious gnocchi dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup semolina flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Fresh sage leaves, chopped (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and roast for about 45 minutes, or until tender.
2. In a large bowl, combine flours, salt, black pepper, and Parmesan cheese. Make a well in the center and add the egg.
3. Mash the roasted butternut squash with a fork and mix it into the flour mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope and cut into 1-inch pieces.
5. Cook the gnocchi in boiling water for about 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface. Drain with a slotted spoon.
6. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped sage leaves and cook for about 30 seconds.
7. Add cooked gnocchi to the skillet and toss with sage and a pinch of salt and pepper. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 1 hour
Gnocchi alla Sorrentina (Tomato and Mozzarella Bake)
A classic Neapolitan-inspired dish, Gnocchi alla Sorrentina is a simple yet flavorful recipe that combines soft gnocchi with rich tomato sauce and melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) fresh or dried gnocchi
– 2 cups (400g) crushed San Marzano tomatoes
– 1/4 cup (30g) extra-virgin olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz (225g) fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions or until they float to the surface. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
4. Pour in crushed tomatoes and stir to combine. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Arrange cooked gnocchi in a baking dish. Spoon tomato sauce over the gnocchi, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Top with sliced mozzarella cheese and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish with chopped basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi with Crispy Pancetta
As the seasons change, warm up with this autumnal twist on traditional gnocchi, infused with the comforting flavors of pumpkin and crispy pancetta.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked pumpkin puree
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup semolina flour
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 large egg
– Salt, to taste
– 6 slices of pancetta, chopped
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, combine pumpkin puree, all-purpose flour, semolina flour, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Divide the dough into 4 portions and roll each into a log shape. Cut into 1-inch pieces.
4. Boil gnocchi in salted water for 2-3 minutes or until they float. Drain and set aside.
5. In a skillet, cook pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat.
6. Add butter to the same skillet and whisk in heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
7. Combine cooked gnocchi with creamy sauce and toss to coat.
8. Top with crispy pancetta and chopped parsley (if using).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Truffle Oil and Mushroom Gnocchi
Transform your pasta game with this luxurious and flavorful dish, featuring truffle oil and earthy mushrooms.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup semolina flour
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon truffle oil
• 1/2 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, semolina flour, egg, and salt.
3. Knead the mixture for about 5 minutes until a dough forms.
4. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces.
5. Roll each piece into a long rope, then cut into 1-inch pieces.
6. Cook gnocchi in boiling water for 3-5 minutes or until they float to the surface.
7. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add mushrooms and cook until tender.
8. Stir in truffle oil and chopped parsley (if using).
9. Combine cooked gnocchi with mushroom mixture and toss gently.
10. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gnocchi with Gorgonzola and Walnuts
This recipe combines the pillowy texture of gnocchi with the bold flavors of gorgonzola cheese and toasted walnuts, creating a delightful and satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of fresh or frozen gnocchi
– 8 oz gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup toasted walnuts
– Salt and pepper to taste
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 separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Stir in crumbled gorgonzola cheese until melted and smooth.
4. Combine cooked gnocchi with the gorgonzola sauce and toss to coat.
5. Sprinkle parsley and toasted walnuts on top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Gnocchi
Transform humble gnocchi into a rich and satisfying dish by pairing them with sweet caramelized onions and tangy goat cheese. This simple yet flavorful recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb potato gnocchi
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup caramelized onion jam (or make your own by cooking onions with sugar and vinegar)
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 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; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté onions in olive oil over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
4. Add caramelized onion jam and stir to combine.
5. Combine cooked gnocchi, caramelized onions, and crumbled goat cheese in a serving dish.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
8. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Broccoli and Cheddar Gnocchi Casserole
This casserole combines the comforting flavors of gnocchi, broccoli, and cheddar cheese for a satisfying weeknight meal. With minimal preparation and cooking time, this dish is perfect for busy households.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) package of gnocchi
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
4. Add broccoli florets and cook until tender. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked gnocchi, broccoli mixture, and grated cheddar cheese.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Drizzle with milk.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoked Salmon and Dill Gnocchi in Cream Sauce
This recipe combines the rich flavors of smoked salmon, fresh dill, and creamy sauce with the comforting warmth of homemade gnocchi. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound gnocchi
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup smoked salmon, flaked
– 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in flaked smoked salmon and chopped dill. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Pour in heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked gnocchi with the cream sauce, tossing to coat.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Vodka Sauce Gnocchi
This recipe combines the warmth of vodka sauce with the tender, pillowy texture of gnocchi and a kick of heat from red pepper flakes. Perfect for a cozy night in or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound potato gnocchi
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup vodka
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the surface.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, crushed tomatoes, vodka, basil, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing flavors to meld.
4. Drain cooked gnocchi and add them to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to combine, seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Gnocchi with Sausage and Peppers
A hearty, comforting casserole that combines the simplicity of gnocchi with the bold flavors of sausage and roasted peppers. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 package gnocchi
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
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 up with spoon as it cooks.
4. Add peppers and garlic to the skillet; cook until peppers are tender.
5. In a separate bowl, combine cooked gnocchi, sausage mixture, and Parmesan cheese.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Rosemary Garlic Gnocchi with Browned Butter
Rosemary Garlic Gnocchi with Browned Butter Recipe
Savor the flavors of Italy with this simple yet elegant gnocchi dish, infused with the aromatic essence of rosemary and pungency of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup semolina flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– Browned butter (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, semolina flour, and salt.
3. Make a well in the center and add egg, olive oil, garlic, and rosemary.
4. Mix until dough forms; knead for 5 minutes.
5. Divide into 4 equal pieces; roll each piece into a long rope.
6. Cut into 1-inch (2.5 cm) pieces to form gnocchi.
7. Cook in boiling salted water for 3-5 minutes or until they float; drain.
Browned Butter:
– Melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat.
– Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until browned and fragrant (about 5 minutes).
– Serve hot with cooked gnocchi, garnished with additional rosemary leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gnocchi Mac and Cheese with Crispy Breadcrumbs
Rich and comforting, this creamy gnocchi mac and cheese is elevated by a crunchy breadcrumb topping. Perfect for a cozy night in or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound gnocchi
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
– Breadcrumbs (about 1/4 cup)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
6. In a large baking dish, combine cooked gnocchi and cheese sauce.
7. Top with breadcrumbs and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get cozy with these 20 creamy gnocchi recipes! From classic combinations like Garlic Butter Parmesan and Four Cheese Alfredo to innovative flavors like Truffle Oil and Mushroom or Spicy Vodka Sauce, there’s something for every taste. Enjoy comforting dinners with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Gnocchi or rich sauces like Brown Butter Sage. Or, try lighter options like Lemon Garlic Shrimp or Roasted Butternut Squash. These creative recipes will keep you coming back for more, and make a perfect addition to your dinner repertoire.
