Creamy Garlic Parmesan Gnocchi Recipe
A delicious and comforting dish featuring tender potato gnocchi pan-seared to golden perfection and coated in a rich, creamy sauce infused with garlic, Parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs. This easy-to-make recipe balances buttery and herbal flavors for a satisfying meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
Gnocchi
- 1 lb potato gnocchi
Sauce and Cooking
- 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
- Boil Gnocchi: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, add the potato gnocchi, and cook until they float and turn tender, about 2-3 minutes. Drain carefully and set aside.
- Pan-Sear Gnocchi: Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the boiled gnocchi and cook until they are golden brown and slightly crispy on the outside, about 3-5 minutes. Remove the gnocchi from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet with the remaining butter and oil, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not burnt.
- Simmer Cream Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally so it doesn’t scorch. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Add Cheese and Herbs: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, chopped rosemary, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Mix well until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
- Toss Gnocchi in Sauce: Return the pan-seared gnocchi to the skillet and gently toss them in the creamy sauce ensuring each piece is evenly coated and heated through, about 2 minutes.
- Serve: Plate the gnocchi immediately, garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative.
- You can use fresh gnocchi or frozen gnocchi; adjust boiling time accordingly.
- Red pepper flakes add a subtle heat, omit if preferred mild flavor.
- Fresh herbs can be adjusted based on availability or preference; thyme or basil can also be good substitutes.
- Serve this dish as a main course or as a side to grilled meats or roasted vegetables.
Keywords: potato gnocchi, creamy sauce, Parmesan, garlic, rosemary, parsley, Italian, easy dinner, pan-seared gnocchi
