This Gnocchi Alfredo is a creamy and cheesy delight that makes dinner feel like a special occasion! Soft gnocchi pairs perfectly with a smooth Alfredo sauce, creating a wonderfully comforting dish.
Honestly, who can resist that rich cheese flavor? I love topping it with a sprinkle of parsley for a pop of color and a little freshness. You’ll be coming back for seconds, I promise! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potato Gnocchi: I love using store-bought gnocchi for its convenience, but homemade is a fun option if you have more time! For gluten-free options, you can find gluten-free gnocchi made from rice or other gluten-free flours.
Heavy Cream: This is what makes the sauce rich and creamy. If you’re looking to lighten it up, you can use half-and-half or a mix of cream and milk, but the flavor will be less rich. Coconut cream can also work for a dairy-free version!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor. If you need a substitute, Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano can work well too. Nutritional yeast is a great vegan alternative that offers a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Fresh Spinach: Spinach adds a nice touch and some color. Feel free to swap it out for kale or arugula for a different taste. Frozen spinach works in a pinch; just make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water.
What’s the Best Way to Make a Creamy Alfredo Sauce?
Making a smooth and creamy Alfredo sauce can seem tricky, but it’s easier than you think! The key is to add ingredients at the right pace and keep stirring.
- Start with medium heat to gently melt the butter and sauté the garlic without browning it, which can make it bitter.
- When you add the cream, stir continuously to prevent it from catching on the bottom of the pan.
- Whisk in Parmesan slowly so it incorporates smoothly. If clumps form, keep whisking until everything mixes well!
- Always taste and adjust the seasoning before adding the spinach and gnocchi, as these can alter the dish’s overall flavor.
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll have a delicious Gnocchi Alfredo ready in no time! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Gnocchi Alfredo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Gnocchi Alfredo recipe takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare and cook! You’ll spend roughly 5 minutes boiling the gnocchi and around 10 minutes making the creamy sauce. It’s a quick meal that’s perfect for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Gnocchi:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. This is important as it helps season the gnocchi. Once the water is boiling, add the gnocchi and cook them according to the package instructions or until they float to the top, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Once they are cooked, drain them and set them aside.
2. Making the Alfredo Sauce:
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant but be careful not to let it brown. This step adds a lovely flavor!
3. Adding Cream and Cheese:
Now pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring well to combine them. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, which will help thicken it. Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Don’t rush it; take your time for the best results!
4. Seasoning and Adding Spinach:
Season your Alfredo sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Next, add the chopped spinach and let it cook for about 1-2 minutes until it wilts down beautifully.
5. Combining Gnocchi with Sauce:
Finally, gently add the drained gnocchi into the skillet and toss them with the sauce to coat them evenly. Cook together for an additional 1-2 minutes to warm everything through and let the flavors meld perfectly!
6. Serving:
Now it’s time to serve your delicious Gnocchi Alfredo! Plate it up immediately and garnish with freshly chopped parsley, additional Parmesan if you like, a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper, and a pretty sprig of fresh basil on top. It’s as good as it looks!
This creamy, comforting Gnocchi Alfredo is perfect for cozy dinners and is sure to impress. Enjoy your meal! 😊
Can I Use Store-Bought Gnocchi?
Absolutely! Store-bought gnocchi is quick and convenient, and it tastes great in this recipe. Just make sure to follow the package instructions for cooking time!
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make Gnocchi Alfredo dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for that cheesy flavor. A plant-based butter can also replace regular butter.
Can I Add Protein to This Dish?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms make fantastic additions. Just cook the protein separately and then toss it with the gnocchi and Alfredo sauce before serving.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce, and warm gently on the stove for best results.
