Name: Creamy Garlic Parmesan Gnocchi Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb potato gnocchi (fresh or store-bought); 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped

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Introduction

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Gnocchi is a comforting and quick pasta dish that combines soft potato gnocchi with a rich, cheesy sauce. Perfect for a weeknight meal, it’s simple to make and packed with flavor.

A white bowl filled with about two layers of browned gnocchi pieces, each piece having a golden crisp on top, sitting in a creamy white sauce that covers the bottom of the bowl. The dish is sprinkled with finely grated white cheese and chopped fresh green parsley leaves evenly spread across the gnocchi. Small specks of black pepper are scattered on top, adding contrast. The white bowl is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb potato gnocchi (fresh or store-bought)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic (minced)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper (to taste)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions, usually until they float to the surface (about 2-3 minutes). Drain and set aside.
Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 4: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Step 5: Gently fold the cooked gnocchi into the creamy sauce, making sure they are well coated. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to heat through.
Step 6: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

For a lighter option, substitute half of the heavy cream with milk or use half-and-half.
Add cooked spinach or sautéed mushrooms for extra vegetables and flavor.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melting and taste.
For a bit of heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes into the sauce while cooking garlic.

Storage

Store leftover gnocchi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce as needed. Avoid microwaving for the best texture.

How to Serve

A white plate holds a single layer of golden-brown pan-fried gnocchi, each piece slightly crispy on the outside with a soft creamy texture visible. The gnocchi sit in a smooth, pale cream sauce that pools around and slightly under them. On top, there is a generous sprinkle of finely grated white cheese and freshly cracked black pepper. Bright green chopped parsley is scattered across the dish, adding a fresh contrast to the warm colors. The plate rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?

Yes, frozen gnocchi works well. Cook them directly from frozen according to package instructions before adding to the sauce.

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

If the sauce thickens too much, simply add a little more cream, milk, or pasta water to loosen it while reheating or cooking.