🥬 Creamy Spinach Gnocchi Recipe

Description

This Creamy Spinach Gnocchi is a cozy, one-pan dish that comes together in under 30 minutes. Pillowy gnocchi are simmered in a garlicky, paprika-spiced cream sauce with fresh spinach for a comforting, restaurant-style meal at home. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 lb (450g) potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter version)
• ½ cup vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 cups fresh spinach (baby spinach preferred)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Sauté Aromatics
   • In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat.
   • Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 1 minute).
   • Stir in smoked paprika.
2. Cook the Gnocchi
   • Add gnocchi directly to the skillet (no need to pre-boil if store-bought shelf-stable).
   • Pour in broth and let simmer for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Make It Creamy
   • Reduce heat to low. Add heavy cream and stir until the gnocchi are coated.
   • Mix in Parmesan until melted into the sauce.
4. Add Spinach
   • Toss in fresh spinach and cook until just wilted (2 minutes).
   • Season with salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
5. Serve
   • Garnish with fresh herbs and extra Parmesan.
   • Serve hot, straight from the skillet.

Notes

• Use frozen gnocchi (cook separately first) if you don’t have shelf-stable ones.
• Swap heavy cream for coconut cream to make it dairy-free.
• Smoked paprika adds depth—use regular paprika if you prefer mild flavor.

Tips

• For extra protein, stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon.
• If sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk or broth.
• For a baked version: transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with mozzarella, and broil until bubbly.

Servings

• Makes 4 servings as a main dish.

Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 12g
• Carbs: 50g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 540mg

Benefits

• Spinach → Rich in iron, vitamin K, and antioxidants.
• Gnocchi → Provides energy-boosting carbohydrates.
• Garlic & paprika → Anti-inflammatory and immune-supportive.
• Cream & Parmesan → Adds calcium and protein for stronger bones.

Q&A

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk.

Q: Can I freeze it?
A: It’s best eaten fresh, but you can freeze cooked gnocchi in sauce for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight and reheat slowly.

Q: What’s the best gnocchi for this recipe?
A: Shelf-stable or fresh gnocchi works best since they cook directly in the sauce.

Q: How can I make it vegan?
A: Use olive oil, coconut cream (or cashew cream), and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.