Creamy Buttery Tuscan Gnocchi Recipe

Soft, tender pillows of gnocchi enveloped in a full-flavoured cream sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, garlic, and fresh basil define the Creamy Buttery Tuscan Gnocchi Recipe. This dish is perfect for any occasion, from cozy family dinners to elegant gatherings. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it stand out as the ultimate comfort food, all cooked conveniently in one pan!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: In just 25 minutes, you can serve a delicious meal that impresses everyone at your table.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is needed since everything cooks in one skillet, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and garlic creates a dish bursting with flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins for added nutrition.
• Comfort Food Classic: This creamy gnocchi dish provides the warmth and satisfaction of comfort food without sacrificing quality.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Perfect for sautéing ingredients evenly while allowing ample space for cooking the gnocchi.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for mixing ingredients without scratching your skillet’s surface.

Ingredients

Soft, tender pillows of gnocchi enveloped in a full-flavoured cream sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, garlic, and fresh basil. Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi is the ultimate comfort food all cooked in one pan!

For the Base

• 2 tablespoons butter (or olive oil)
• 1 brown shallot (chopped or 1 small onion)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)

For the Gnocchi

• 1 pound uncooked potato gnocchi (the dry packaged gnocchi – not fresh)
• 1/2 cup sun dried tomato strips in oil (jarred, reserve 2 teaspoons of the jarred oil for cooking)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth

For the Cream Sauce

• 1 1/4 cups heavy cream (thickened cream or half and half)
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
• 1 pinch salt (to taste)
• 1 pinch pepper (to taste)

For the Finish

• 1 1/2 cups fresh baby spinach
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese (fresh grated)
• 2 tablespoons fresh chopped basil (or parsley)
• 2 tablespoons oil from the sun-dried tomatoes jar

How to Make Creamy Buttery Tuscan Gnocchi Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Shallots and Garlic

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Melt the butter or olive oil and add the chopped shallots. Sauté until they become transparent, about 2 minutes. Then add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, approximately 30 seconds.

Step 2: Cook Gnocchi

Add the uncooked potato gnocchi to the skillet. Let it sear in the butter for around one minute. Incorporate the sun-dried tomatoes along with their reserved oil. Cook for an additional minute to allow flavors to meld into the gnocchi.

Step 3: Add Broth and Cream

Pour in chicken broth along with heavy cream and dried Italian herbs. Be sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan as they add extra flavor.

Step 4: Season and Simmer

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything well before reducing heat to medium. Cover the pan with a lid and let it cook for about five minutes.

Step 5: Add Spinach

Stir in fresh baby spinach leaves and cook until wilted; this should take about one minute.

Step 6: Incorporate Cheese

Add freshly grated parmesan cheese along with chopped basil. Let everything simmer for another minute until the gnocchi becomes soft and cooked through while allowing your sauce to thicken to your liking.

Step 7: Final Touches

Taste your dish once more; season with a little extra salt & pepper if needed before serving.

Step 8: Serve Immediately

Your delicious creamy buttery Tuscan gnocchi is ready! Enjoy this delightful meal right away!

Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition Facts: Calories: 576 kcal

How to Serve Creamy Buttery Tuscan Gnocchi Recipe

Creamy Buttery Tuscan Gnocchi is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

With Fresh Herbs

• Use fresh basil or parsley to garnish your dish. This adds a vibrant color and aromatic touch.

Pair with Grilled Chicken

• Serve alongside grilled chicken breast for added protein and texture. The flavors complement each other beautifully.

Add a Side Salad

• A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the gnocchi. Consider mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers.

Enjoy with Crusty Bread

• Offer slices of crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce. It’s an excellent way to enjoy every bit of this delicious meal.

Top with Extra Cheese

• Sprinkle additional grated parmesan on top before serving for an extra cheesy flavor boost that cheese lovers will adore.

How to Perfect Creamy Buttery Tuscan Gnocchi Recipe

Perfecting your Creamy Buttery Tuscan Gnocchi is easy with some simple tips. Following these guidelines will help you achieve the best results every time you make this dish.

• Choose Quality Gnocchi: Look for dry packaged gnocchi made from potatoes for the best texture. Avoid fresh gnocchi as they may become mushy in the sauce.
• Don’t Overcook the Sauce: Keep an eye on the sauce while it simmers. Overcooking can lead to separation, so monitor it closely.
• Adjust Seasoning: Always taste and adjust salt and pepper levels before serving. This ensures balanced flavors throughout the dish.
• Add Spinach Last: Incorporate spinach at the end of cooking to keep it bright and vibrant. Overcooking can cause it to lose its fresh color and nutrients.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, herbs, and cheese greatly enhance the flavor compared to dried or pre-packaged options.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Buttery Tuscan Gnocchi Recipe

Complement your Creamy Buttery Tuscan Gnocchi with these delightful side dishes. Each one pairs perfectly with gnocchi’s rich creamy texture.

1. Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted with garlic bring a savory crunch that balances the dish’s creaminess.
2. Caprese Salad: A refreshing mix of mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze adds brightness and acidity.
3. Sautéed Broccoli: Quickly sautéed broccoli seasoned with olive oil and lemon juice provides a nutritious contrast to the heavy sauce.
4. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly cooked zucchini noodles offer a low-carb option that complements the gnocchi without overwhelming it.
5. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor that pairs well with creamy dishes.
6. Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad featuring mixed greens, nuts, and a tangy dressing offers freshness and lightness alongside rich gnocchi.
7. Herb-Infused Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with herbs creates an aromatic side that works beautifully with Tuscany-inspired flavors.
8. Oven-Baked Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes baked until tender provide natural sweetness and a hearty side option that nicely contrasts the creamy sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Creamy Buttery Tuscan Gnocchi Recipe, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you avoid them:

• Using Fresh Gnocchi: Fresh gnocchi will not achieve the same texture and flavor as dry packaged gnocchi in this recipe. Stick with the recommended type for best results.
• Overcooking the Spinach: Adding spinach too early can cause it to become mushy. Add it towards the end of cooking, allowing just enough time for it to wilt.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Not adjusting salt and pepper can lead to bland flavors. Always taste your dish before serving and adjust seasoning as needed.
• Skipping the Searing Step: Searing the gnocchi helps develop a deeper flavor. Ensure you give it a minute in the pan before adding other ingredients.
• Not Scraping the Pan: Failing to scrape up browned bits from the bottom of the pan may result in lost flavors. Be sure to do this when adding broth and cream.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Allow to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Creamy Buttery Tuscan Gnocchi Recipe

• Place portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
• Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating Creamy Buttery Tuscan Gnocchi Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place gnocchi in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Transfer a portion to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until warmed through.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of chicken broth or water. Stir gently until heated, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Gnocchi Made Of?

Gnocchi is traditionally made from potatoes, flour, and eggs. However, many variations exist that use different ingredients like ricotta or even gluten-free alternatives.

Can I Customize This Creamy Buttery Tuscan Gnocchi Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini, or substitute herbs according to your taste preferences.

How Long Does It Take to Prepare This Dish?

This Creamy Buttery Tuscan Gnocchi Recipe takes about 25 minutes from prep to finish, making it a quick meal option.

Is This Recipe Suitable for Meal Prep?

Yes! The creamy gnocchi can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer for later enjoyment.

Can I Make This Dish Vegan?

To make this dish vegan, swap heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream and replace parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or vegan cheese.

Final Thoughts

The Creamy Buttery Tuscan Gnocchi Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite ingredients. It’s perfect for a comforting dinner during busy weeknights or special occasions. Try this recipe today and enjoy soft gnocchi enveloped in a rich cream sauce!