Name: Creamy Garlic Parmesan Gnocchi Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb potato gnocchi; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 1 teaspoon rosemary, chopped; 1 teaspoon parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper, to taste; Red pepper flakes (optional)

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Introduction

Gnocchi with creamy sauce is a comforting and elegant dish that’s quick to prepare. Soft potato gnocchi are pan-seared to perfection and coated in a rich, flavorful sauce infused with garlic and fresh herbs. It’s a wonderful meal for any night of the week.

The image shows a white bowl filled with about two layers of golden-brown gnocchi, each piece seared with crispy grill marks and slightly browned edges. The gnocchi are coated in a creamy, light-colored sauce speckled with green herbs. On top of the gnocchi pile, there is a small sprig of fresh rosemary standing upright. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface with soft, natural light coming from the back right side, highlighting the texture and glossiness of the sauce and gnocchi. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb potato gnocchi
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 teaspoon rosemary, chopped
1 teaspoon parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper, to taste
Red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook until they float to the surface, about 2–3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cooked gnocchi and sear until golden and slightly crispy on all sides. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, making sure it doesn’t burn.
Step 4: Pour in the heavy cream and simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until it starts to thicken slightly, about 3–4 minutes.
Step 5: Stir in the grated Parmesan, chopped rosemary, parsley, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for another minute to combine flavors.
Step 6: Return the seared gnocchi to the skillet and toss gently to coat them evenly in the creamy sauce.
Step 7: Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh gnocchi if available for a softer texture, or try sweet potato gnocchi for a twist on flavor.
Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra vegetables and depth.
If the sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of pasta water or milk to reach your preferred consistency.
For a spicy kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a little cream or water to loosen the sauce if needed. Avoid microwave reheating as it can make the gnocchi rubbery.

How to Serve

A white deep plate holds a creamy sauce with small, golden-brown seared gnocchi pieces evenly spread in the sauce. The sauce is pale yellow and thick with visible small green herb bits throughout. In the center of the plate, a small bunch of fresh green herbs and tiny purple flowers are placed on top as decoration. The plate rests on a white marbled surface with a fork and knife partly visible nearby. The sunlight highlights the textures and colors clearly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought gnocchi for this recipe?

Yes, store-bought gnocchi works perfectly and saves time. Just follow the package instructions for boiling before pan-searing.

How do I prevent the sauce from splitting?

Simmer the cream gently over low to medium heat and avoid boiling. Stir frequently and add the cheese slowly to ensure a smooth, creamy sauce.