Soft pillows in silky comfort
This gnocchi with creamy sauce is the kind of cozy, crave-worthy meal that feels fancy but comes together fast 🤍. Tender potato gnocchi are tossed in a rich, velvety cream sauce that clings to every bite, making it perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners. With simple ingredients and one pan, this dish delivers big comfort with minimal effort. Whether you serve it as a satisfying vegetarian main or an elegant side, it’s a creamy classic that never goes out of style—and it’s ready in under 30 minutes.
⏱️ Time Breakdown
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
📝 Ingredients List
- 1 lb potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ tsp salt (or to taste)
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Optional: pinch of nutmeg
- Optional garnish: chopped parsley or basil
✨ Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free.
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Medium pot (for gnocchi)
- Colander
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups & spoons
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Beginner-Friendly Instructions
- Boil the gnocchi in salted water according to package directions. Once they float, cook 1 more minute, then drain.
- Start the sauce: Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 30–60 seconds until fragrant (don’t brown it) 😊
- Add cream: Pour in heavy cream and simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Finish the sauce: Stir in Parmesan, salt, pepper, and nutmeg if using. Sauce should be smooth and silky ✨
- Combine: Add drained gnocchi to the skillet and gently toss until fully coated.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs and extra Parmesan 😋
💡 Pro Tips
- Extra richness: Add a tablespoon of cream cheese or mascarpone to the sauce.
- Crispy option: Pan-sear cooked gnocchi in butter before adding to the sauce for golden edges.
- Veggie add-ins: Spinach, mushrooms, or peas fold in beautifully.
- Storage: Best fresh, but leftovers keep 2 days refrigerated—reheat gently with a splash of cream or milk.