Name: Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
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

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe· 4.3 from 38 reviews

If you are craving a comforting and indulgent meal that tastes like a warm hug, this Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi Recipe is an absolute must-try. With pillowy gnocchi bathed in a luscious, garlicky cream sauce studded with sun-dried tomatoes and a bright touch of fresh basil, every bite bursts with rich flavor and delightful texture. The vibrant spinach adds a pop of color and freshness, making this dish both satisfying and visually inviting. It’s a quick, effortless recipe that feels special enough for guests but is simple enough for a weeknight dinner. Trust me, once you make this Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi Recipe, it might just become your go-to comfort food!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting your ingredients ready for this recipe is a breeze, and each one plays a starring role in crafting the perfect balance of creamy, savory, and fresh flavors that make this dish shine.

3 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps sauté garlic and gnocchi to golden perfection.
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped: Brings a fragrant, aromatic base that awakens the palate.
1 pound gnocchi, uncooked: The tender, pillowy stars of the dish that soak up the creamy sauce beautifully.
¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped: Provides a sweet and tangy burst that cuts through the creaminess.
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant mix that infuses the sauce with classic Mediterranean herbs.
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper (or to taste): Adds a subtle kick, giving the dish a gentle warmth without overwhelming it.
½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing the richness of the sauce.
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper: Offers a mild heat and depth to the overall profile.
1 cup heavy cream: The key to that silky, dreamy texture that coats the gnocchi perfectly.
½ cup vegetable stock: Lightens the sauce just enough and adds savory depth.
¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated: Melts seamlessly for delicious umami and that signature Italian flair.
3 cups baby spinach: Wilted into the sauce for a fresh, earthy contrast and a gorgeous pop of green.
2 tablespoons fresh basil, finely sliced: A fragrant finishing touch that brightens every bite.

How to Make Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Butter, Garlic, and Gnocchi

Start by melting the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it’s bubbly and golden, which takes about a minute. Then add in the finely chopped garlic and uncooked gnocchi. Sauté them together until the gnocchi develop a gorgeous golden crust on most sides—this usually takes around 5 minutes. This caramelization is key because it adds a wonderful texture and a nutty depth of flavor to new gnocchi.

Step 2: Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Seasonings

Next, toss in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes along with the Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything well so the gnocchi and garlic get evenly coated with these fragrant and zesty seasonings. Let the mixture cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the air to fill with the inviting aroma of herbs and tomatoes waking up.

Step 3: Introduce Cream, Stock, and Cheese

Pour in the heavy cream and vegetable stock, then sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Stir the sauce until everything blends beautifully and bring it to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to medium and keep stirring often—this is when the sauce really thickens up and the gnocchi begin to fully cook, soaking in all those luscious flavors. This takes about 2-3 minutes and is one of the most rewarding moments of the process!

Step 4: Wilt the Spinach

Finally, add the baby spinach and stir it through the creamy sauce just until it wilts, which is roughly a minute. Not only does spinach bring a fresh, slightly earthy element, but it also balances the richness and adds a beautiful burst of green that makes the dish as pretty as it is tasty.

Step 5: Garnish with Fresh Basil and Serve

Turn off the heat and sprinkle the finely sliced fresh basil over the top to finish the dish. This fragrant herb gives the gnocchi a bright, fresh layer of flavor that perfectly complements the creamy, savory sauce. Serve immediately to enjoy it at its absolute best.

How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi Recipe

Garnishes

Beyond the fresh basil, consider adding a light drizzle of good-quality olive oil or an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese right before serving for that little extra indulgence. Toasted pine nuts or a handful of freshly cracked black pepper can also provide a wonderful contrast in texture and flavor.

Side Dishes

This creamy gnocchi pairs beautifully with crisp, refreshing sides. A simple mixed green salad with a lemon vinaigrette can cut through the richness, while roasted vegetables like asparagus or cherry tomatoes add bright, sweet notes. Garlic bread is an easy go-to that’s perfect for sopping up every bit of that luscious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, serve this dish in shallow bowls or rustic terracotta dishes to emphasize its comforting, homey vibe. Layer with a sprinkle of microgreens or edible flowers for a stunning presentation that’ll wow your guests. You can even turn it into individual portions by baking it briefly under a broiler with extra cheese on top for a bubbly golden crust.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftover Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld nicely overnight, making the dish even more satisfying the next day.

Freezing

If you want to freeze this dish, it’s best to do so before adding the fresh spinach and basil. Pack the gnocchi and sauce into a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove with fresh spinach and basil added toward the end.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent the cream sauce from separating. Add a splash of vegetable stock or cream if the sauce seems too thick. Microwave works too, but stirring halfway through is essential for even warming.

FAQs

Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen gnocchi works well and sometimes even holds up better during cooking. Just make sure not to thaw it beforehand and increase the sauté time slightly until golden brown.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you want a lighter version, half-and-half or whole milk can work, but expect a thinner sauce. For a dairy-free option, try full-fat coconut milk for a slightly different but delicious twist.

How spicy is this dish?

It has a mild warmth thanks to the crushed red pepper, which you can easily adjust to your taste. Feel free to leave it out for no heat or increase it if you love a little extra kick.

Can I add protein to the Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi Recipe?

Definitely! Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even crispy bacon make excellent additions that turn this comforting meal into a more substantial plate.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Traditional gnocchi contains wheat, so you’d need to purchase gluten-free gnocchi to make this dish gluten-free. Otherwise, it’s naturally vegetarian and packed with delicious flavors.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi Recipe is the kind of dish that makes you feel instantly cozy and delighted, no matter the occasion. From the velvety sauce to the burst of fresh herbs and vibrant greens, it delivers happiness on every forkful. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience how effortlessly special such a simple dish can taste!