Name: Gnocchi with Cream Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 (16-ounce) package potato gnocchi; 1 tablespoon butter; 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; ¼ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; pinch of nutmeg (optional); chopped fresh parsley for garnish

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If you’re craving something ultra-comforting and irresistibly creamy, this Gnocchi with Cream Sauce Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Tender, pillowy potato gnocchi are gently tossed in a rich Parmesan cream sauce, perfectly seasoned and finished with a bit of fresh parsley. What makes this dish a go-to for weeknights and special occasions alike is how quickly it comes together — in just 15 minutes, you’ll have a restaurant-worthy meal on the table! The combination of delicate gnocchi and luscious cream sauce creates a beautiful harmony of flavors and textures, making every bite seriously dreamy. Trust me, you’ll want to make this Gnocchi with Cream Sauce Recipe again and again!

Gnocchi with Cream Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

With only a handful of good-quality ingredients, you’ll be amazed at how much flavor you can build in so little time. Each element works its magic: the gnocchi brings softness, the cream offers richness, Parmesan adds salty depth, and seasonings tie everything together into one delicious bowl. Here’s what you’ll need and why:

Potato Gnocchi (1 16-ounce package): These soft, potato-based dumplings are the heart of this dish; opt for shelf-stable or refrigerated gnocchi for maximum convenience.
Butter (1 tablespoon): Butter gives the sauce a luxurious foundation and helps carry the flavors of garlic and cheese throughout.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced): A quick sauté awakens the base of the sauce and infuses every bite with gentle, aromatic goodness.
Heavy Cream (1 cup): The star of the sauce, it delivers unbeatable creaminess and a rich texture that hugs each gnocchi.
Parmesan Cheese (½ cup, grated): This classic cheese melts into the cream for a salty, nutty punch and ensures smoothness.
Salt (¼ teaspoon): Just enough to balance all the components and bring out their best flavors.
Black Pepper (¼ teaspoon): Adds a gentle heat and a bit of complexity to the creamy sauce.
Nutmeg (pinch, optional): A whisper of nutmeg provides a subtle, warm undertone that elevates the dish, but feel free to skip if you prefer.
Fresh Parsley (chopped, for garnish): Brings color, freshness, and a final flourish to your finished plate.

How to Make Gnocchi with Cream Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Gnocchi

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a lively boil — this helps season the gnocchi from the inside out. Drop in your gnocchi and wait for their magical moment: once they float to the surface (after about 2 to 3 minutes), they’re perfectly cooked. Quickly drain them and set them aside so they stay tender and don’t overcook while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Butter

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter until it’s deliciously foamy. Add the minced garlic and give it a quick stir — about 30 seconds is all it takes until the garlic is just fragrant. Don’t let it brown; you want sweet, mellow garlic flavor, not bitter.

Step 3: Create the Cream Sauce

Pour the heavy cream into your skillet and let it come to a gentle simmer. You’re looking for those small bubbles around the edge, not a full boil. Once it’s simmering, stir in the grated Parmesan, salt, pepper, and, if you like, that pinch of nutmeg. Over 3 to 4 minutes, you’ll see the sauce thicken slightly and become smooth — the Parmesan will melt away, giving you a beautifully silky finish.

Step 4: Combine Gnocchi and Sauce

Add your freshly cooked gnocchi right to the skillet. Gently toss everything together so each pillowy morsel gets coated in that creamy, cheesy sauce. Cook for another minute or two so the gnocchi soak up all the flavors and the sauce clings perfectly. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Spoon your creamy gnocchi into bowls while it’s piping hot. Sprinkle generously with chopped parsley and, if you like, an extra dusting of Parmesan. This is the Gnocchi with Cream Sauce Recipe at its most irresistible — simple, inviting, and guaranteed to please anyone lucky enough to dig in.

How to Serve Gnocchi with Cream Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

For an inviting finish, scatter a handful of freshly chopped parsley over the top — it adds not just a pop of color, but a fresh, verdant note that balances the creamy richness. Extra shavings of Parmesan cheese are always a welcome touch, taking this Gnocchi with Cream Sauce Recipe over the top. If you want a dash of extra flavor, a light sprinkle of cracked black pepper or even a hint of chili flakes can add lovely contrast.

Side Dishes

The beauty of this Gnocchi with Cream Sauce Recipe is how well it pairs with simple sides. A crisp green salad with a lemony vinaigrette brings a bit of refreshing brightness, while some garlicky sautéed greens or roasted vegetables can round things out with color and crunch. Don’t forget a hunk of crusty bread — perfect for sopping up those last luscious spoonfuls of the cream sauce!

Creative Ways to Present

For a more elegant presentation, serve individual portions in small gratin dishes or wide pasta bowls with a dramatic cloud of herbs and cheese on top. If you’re making this for a gathering, arrange the gnocchi on a large platter and let everyone help themselves, family-style. You can even customize the sauce with add-ins like sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for a new twist on the classic Gnocchi with Cream Sauce Recipe each time you serve it.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers (lucky you), transfer the cooled gnocchi and sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate. The Gnocchi with Cream Sauce Recipe holds up well in the fridge for up to three days. To keep the best texture, try to store the gnocchi separately from the sauce if possible, but don’t worry — they’re still delicious all mixed together!

Freezing

This isn’t a dish that loves the freezer, since cream sauces can sometimes separate when thawed. However, if needed, you can freeze the cooked gnocchi and sauce in a tightly sealed container for up to one month. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge to help preserve the texture and taste.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the gnocchi with cream sauce over low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s silkiness. Stir frequently so the sauce doesn’t stick or separate. If microwaving, cover loosely and heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until everything is piping hot and creamy again.

FAQs

Can I use homemade gnocchi instead of store-bought?

Absolutely! If you have homemade gnocchi on hand, use them in this Gnocchi with Cream Sauce Recipe for an especially tender and fresh result. Just cook as directed and proceed with the recipe.

How do I make this dish lighter?

If you’d like to lighten things up, you can swap the heavy cream for half-and-half — the sauce will be a bit thinner but still delicious. Just keep an eye on the consistency as you simmer, and reduce the sauce a touch longer if needed.

What else can I add to the sauce for more flavor?

Go ahead and make the Gnocchi with Cream Sauce Recipe your own! Stir in sautéed mushrooms, wilted spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and color. A pinch of red pepper flakes also works wonders if you like a little heat.

Can I double this recipe for a crowd?

Definitely! This recipe scales up beautifully — just use a large enough skillet to hold all the gnocchi and sauce. You may need to add a minute or two to the cooking times to make sure everything is heated through.

What type Main Course

Freshly grated Parmesan is ideal for its flavor and melting qualities. Pre-grated versions can sometimes be a bit dry and don’t melt as smoothly, so grab a block and your grater for the best Gnocchi with Cream Sauce Recipe experience!

Final Thoughts

If you’re in the mood for a little culinary magic with barely any effort, give this Gnocchi with Cream Sauce Recipe a spot in your kitchen rotation. It’s quick, cozy, and so satisfying — perfect for both busy weeknights and special gatherings. I can’t wait for you to enjoy your first luscious bowl!

Gnocchi with Cream Sauce Recipe

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4.5 from 6 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the rich and creamy goodness of Gnocchi with Cream Sauce, a comforting and satisfying Italian-inspired dish that is quick and easy to prepare. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special dinner with loved ones.

Ingredients

Scale

Gnocchi:

1 (16-ounce) package potato gnocchi

Cream Sauce:

1 tablespoon butter
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
pinch of nutmeg (optional)
chopped fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

Cook Gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi until they float to the top, about 2–3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Prepare Cream Sauce: Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté garlic until fragrant. Add heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Simmer until slightly thickened.
Combine and Serve: Toss cooked gnocchi in the sauce. Heat through and ensure the sauce coats the gnocchi. Serve warm, garnished with parsley and extra Parmesan.