Creamy Spinach Gnocchi

Name: Creamy Spinach Gnocchi
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; A pinch of nutmeg; 1 pound store-bought gnocchi; Water for boiling; Extra Parmesan for serving

Highlighted under: Warm & Cozy Home Meals

I love making Creamy Spinach Gnocchi because it brings a rich, comforting flavor to the table in just 30 minutes. The gorgeous green hue from the spinach makes the dish visually appealing, which is always a plus, especially when entertaining friends. The combination of creamy sauce and tender gnocchi creates a perfect texture that’s truly satisfying. I like to serve it with a sprinkle of parmesan and a dash of nutmeg for an extra depth of flavor. This recipe has quickly become one of my go-to dinners for busy weeknights.

Created by

Ariana Brooks

Last updated on 2026-02-07T21:17:36.139Z

One evening, I decided to experiment with spinach and gnocchi. I was pleasantly surprised at how creamy and luxurious the sauce turned out using just a few ingredients. The blend of garlic, cream, and spinach complements the gnocchi beautifully, creating a dish that’s both rich and comforting.

After perfecting the method, I learned the importance of not overcooking the gnocchi, as they can become mushy. Instead, I prefer to cook them until they float, which ensures they maintain their delightful shape and texture. The addition of freshly grated parmesan at the end elevates the entire dish!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy sauce envelops each gnocchi for a comforting bite
Quick to make, perfect for busy weeknights
Nutritious spinach adds color and health benefits

Enhancing the Creamy Sauce

To achieve the perfect creamy sauce, it’s important to use high-quality heavy cream as it adds richness and a smooth texture that binds beautifully with the spinach. When heating the cream, look for small bubbles around the edges of the skillet, indicating it's just about to simmer; avoid boiling harshly to prevent the cream from curdling. I like to whisk continuously once the cheese is added to ensure it melts evenly, resulting in a glossy sauce that perfectly coats the gnocchi.

Adding a pinch of nutmeg makes a significant difference in flavor, enhancing the earthiness of the spinach and complementing the creaminess. Nutmeg can overpower quickly, so start with just a pinch and adjust based on your taste preferences. You could also experiment by adding a dash of freshly grated lemon zest for a refreshing twist; the acidity will brighten the dish and balance the creamy elements beautifully.

Cooking Gnocchi to Perfection

Store-bought gnocchi is convenient, but there are a few key tips to cooking it flawlessly. Always bring the water to a rolling boil and add a generous amount of salt; this enhances the flavor of the gnocchi itself. Once the gnocchi starts to float, it's an indicator that they are cooked through—usually within 2-3 minutes. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture, so keep a close eye on them, and drain immediately when done to prevent further cooking.

If you're seeking an exciting variation, consider pan-frying the gnocchi after boiling. This adds a crispy texture that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy sauce. Simply toss the drained gnocchi into a hot, greased skillet over medium-high heat until they develop golden edges, about 5 minutes, then proceed to fold them into your sauce for a delightful crunch.

Ingredients

For the Creamy Sauce

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
A pinch of nutmeg

For the Gnocchi

1 pound store-bought gnocchi
Water for boiling
Extra Parmesan for serving

Instructions

Cook the Gnocchi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted.

Combine and Serve

Pour in the heavy cream, bring to a gentle simmer, and stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet, coating them well. Serve hot with extra parmesan on top.

Pro Tips

For a twist, try adding sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for added flavor and texture.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Creamy Spinach Gnocchi is a great candidate for meal prep. You can prepare the creamy sauce and cook the gnocchi ahead of time—just store them separately in airtight containers. The sauce can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator, so reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of milk or more cream to loosen it back to a silky consistency. The gnocchi can also be refrigerated but should be consumed within the same time frame to maintain their best texture.

For longer storage, consider freezing the creamy sauce. Pour it into ice cube trays or muffin tins, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer bag. This way, you can pull out just what you need for a quick meal. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight or reheat it gently from frozen, stirring frequently to prevent any sticking.

Serving Suggestions

When serving Creamy Spinach Gnocchi, presentation goes a long way. I love garnishing with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper to elevate the visual appeal. You can also add a few toasted pine nuts for crunch or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to introduce a subtle heat that complements the creaminess.

For a complete meal, consider pairing this dish with a light salad dressed in a simple vinaigrette. The acidity from the vinaigrette balances the richness of the gnocchi, creating a harmonious dining experience. This recipe can also be easily doubled for larger gatherings, just ensure to use a larger skillet to combine the sauce and gnocchi adequately without overcrowding.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead?

Yes, frozen spinach works well; just make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding to the sauce.

→ How can I make this recipe vegan?

Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use vegan cheese alternatives for a delicious dairy-free version.

→ Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the sauce a day in advance and reheat it when ready to serve. Just prepare the gnocchi fresh.

→ What can I serve with creamy spinach gnocchi?

It pairs wonderfully with a light salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.