Name: Irresistible Marry Me Gnocchi Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 18 oz gnocchi (preferably De Cecco for best chewy texture); 2.5 tbsp olive oil; 1/2 red onion, finely diced into 1/4-inch pieces; 4 garlic cloves, freshly minced; 1/2 cup sundried tomatoes; 2.5 tbsp tomato paste (Mutti brand preferred); 2/3 cup vegetable broth; 3/4 cup cream; 3/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese; 2 handfuls spinach; 1 bunch basil, torn into bite-sized pieces; 2.5 tsp Italian seasoning; 1/4 tsp smoked paprika; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes

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Introduction

Irresistible Marry Me Gnocchi is a creamy, flavorful Italian dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. Soft gnocchi bathed in a rich tomato and parmesan sauce with fresh spinach and basil creates a comforting meal that’s easy to make and sure to impress.

The image shows a white bowl filled with creamy orange-colored gnocchi sauce, mixed with green spinach leaves and red sun-dried tomatoes. The gnocchi pieces are small and soft, covered in the thick, smooth sauce, with fresh green herb shreds scattered on top. A woman's hand holds a gold spoon lifting some gnocchi and sun-dried tomato pieces above the bowl. The background is a white marbled texture, giving a clean and bright look. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

18 oz gnocchi (De Cecco recommended for chewy texture)
2.5 tbsp olive oil
1/2 red onion, finely diced into 1/4-inch pieces
4 garlic cloves, freshly minced
1/2 cup sundried tomatoes
2.5 tbsp tomato paste (Mutti preferred for rich tomato base)
2/3 cup vegetable broth
3/4 cup cream
3/4 cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated
2 handfuls spinach
1 bunch basil, torn into bite-sized pieces
2.5 tsp Italian seasoning
1/4 tsp smoked paprika
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. While waiting, dice the red onion, mince the garlic, tear the basil, and grate the parmesan cheese. Add the gnocchi to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, about 2-3 minutes after they float. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes; cook for 30 seconds to bloom the spices. Add tomato paste and cook 2 minutes to caramelize and deepen flavor.
Step 3: Add sundried tomatoes and vegetable broth to the skillet. Stir to combine, then simmer gently for 5-7 minutes to blend flavors and reduce slightly.
Step 4: Lower heat and pour in cream, stirring gently. Warm for about 1 minute, then gradually add parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until melted and sauce is silky. Stir in spinach and basil, letting them wilt fully, about 1-2 minutes. Taste and season with salt and pepper if desired.
Step 5: Add cooked gnocchi to the sauce, folding gently to coat each piece. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy the tender gnocchi soaked in creamy sauce.

Tips & Variations

Use freshly grated parmesan for the best melting and smooth sauce texture.
For a protein boost, add cooked chicken or Italian sausage before adding cream.
Swap vegetable broth for chicken broth if preferred for a richer base.
Adjust red pepper flakes to control the level of heat.
Fresh baby spinach works best for quick wilting and vibrant color.

Storage

Store leftover gnocchi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid breaking down the sauce texture or in short bursts in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Avoid freezing as cream-based sauces can separate.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with gnocchi covered in a creamy orange sauce, with pieces of dark green spinach and small red sun-dried tomatoes mixed throughout. The sauce looks smooth and thick, coating each gnocchi well. A golden spoon held by a woman's hand lifts some gnocchi with a couple of sun-dried tomatoes, showing little herbs sprinkled on top. The bowl sits on a white marbled texture surface with a softly blurred background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought gnocchi for this recipe?

Yes, store-bought gnocchi works perfectly and cuts down prep time. Just cook according to the package instructions until they float and become tender.

How can I make this dish vegan?

Substitute cream with coconut cream or cashew cream and use a vegan parmesan alternative. Ensure the gnocchi is egg-free or make your own vegan version.