If you’re craving a comforting, rich dish that bursts with flavor and comes together in no time, this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Gnocchi Recipe is exactly what you need. Soft, pillowy potato gnocchi combine beautifully with a luscious sauce made from heavy cream, garlic, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes, creating a dish that feels both indulgent and delightfully fresh. Topped off with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, this recipe is a perfect weeknight dinner or a charming main course to share with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but pack a powerful punch in flavor and texture. Each component is essential, from the tender gnocchi providing that cozy base, to the creamy sauce that’s brightened by sun-dried tomatoes and enriched with Parmesan’s salty depth.
- 1 lb potato gnocchi: The star of the dish — soft, pillowy, and ready to soak up the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: This creates a rich, smooth, and luxurious sauce that coats every bite.
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes: Packed with concentrated flavor, they bring a sweet-tart brightness that contrasts beautifully with the cream.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced recommended): Adds a warm, aromatic base that infuses the sauce with depth and complexity.
- Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Provides a salty, nutty finish that makes every mouthful truly satisfying.
How to Make Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Gnocchi Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Gnocchi
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the potato gnocchi and cook according to the package instructions, usually until they float to the surface, which means they’re perfectly tender. Once cooked, drain them gently and set aside while you prepare the sauce.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the heavy cream along with the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Let the cream come to a gentle simmer, allowing the garlic to infuse the sauce and the sun-dried tomatoes to soften and release their vibrant flavors. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and meld the ingredients together.
Step 3: Combine and Finish with Parmesan
Once your sauce is luxuriously creamy and infused with flavor, add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet. Toss everything carefully, making sure each gnocchi is evenly coated with the sauce. Finally, sprinkle the grated Parmesan over the top, stirring just enough to melt it slightly and add that irresistible cheesy finish.
How to Serve Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Gnocchi Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, enhancing the dish visually and flavor-wise. For an added touch of indulgence, a few shavings of extra Parmesan or a drizzle of good quality olive oil work beautifully.
Side Dishes
A crisp, simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is perfect to balance the richness of the gnocchi. Roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus or green beans also complement the dish’s creamy texture without overpowering its delicate flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a lovely dinner party, serve the gnocchi in individual shallow bowls or rustic ceramic plates, sprinkling fresh herbs right before serving. You can also layer it with fresh spinach tossed in at the last minute for a lively splash of green and some extra nutrients.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Gnocchi Recipe keeps really well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain the sauce’s creaminess and prevent the gnocchi from drying out.
Freezing
While gnocchi can sometimes lose texture when frozen, this dish can still be frozen if needed. Place in a freezer-safe container and consume within 1 month for best flavor. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove to avoid overcooking.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat to keep the sauce from breaking. You might want to add a splash of cream or milk to restore its creamy texture, stirring frequently until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I use dried gnocchi instead of fresh or frozen?
Absolutely! Just cook the dried gnocchi according to package instructions. The key is to cook them until they float, signaling they’re ready to be tossed in your creamy sauce.
What can I add to this recipe to make it more veggie-packed?
Spinach, kale, or even peas stirred in at the end of cooking add wonderful color and nutrition without taking away from the rich flavors of the sauce.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a blend of milk and cream cheese for a lighter version, but the sauce won’t be quite as rich and velvety as with heavy cream.
Can I use sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil?
Yes, but drain them well before chopping to avoid making the sauce too oily. You can also sauté the tomatoes briefly with garlic for extra depth.
How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick or separating?
Simmer the sauce gently on medium heat and avoid boiling. Adding a little pasta water or cream can help loosen the sauce if it thickens too much, keeping it silky and smooth.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Gnocchi Recipe is a true celebration of simple ingredients transforming into something truly special. Its creamy texture, vibrant color, and perfect balance of savory flavors make it a recipe you’ll want to come back to time and again. I can’t wait for you to try it and share the joy it brings to your table!
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Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Gnocchi Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This creamy sun-dried tomato gnocchi is a rich and comforting Italian-inspired dish featuring tender potato gnocchi tossed in a luscious sauce made from heavy cream, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes, finished with fresh Parmesan cheese for an indulgent finish.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb potato gnocchi
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook Gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the potato gnocchi and cook according to the package instructions, typically until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the heavy cream, minced garlic, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Simmer gently, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and the flavors meld together.
- Toss Gnocchi in Sauce: Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet with the creamy tomato sauce. Toss well to ensure each piece is evenly coated and warmed through, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Finish with Parmesan: Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the gnocchi. Gently toss once more until the cheese melts into the sauce, creating a rich, creamy coating.
- Serve: Dish out the gnocchi immediately into plates or bowls. Optionally garnish with fresh basil or extra Parmesan if desired and enjoy.
Notes
- Add fresh spinach to the sauce for a pop of color and added nutrition.
- Use sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for a richer flavor; if using dry-packed, rehydrate in warm water before chopping.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy alternative.
- Ensure not to overcook the gnocchi to maintain their light, pillowy texture.
