Creamy Sundried Tomato “Marry Me” Gnocchi

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The gnocchi, with its pillowy texture, pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce that’s rich with the umami flavor of sundried tomatoes, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. The addition of fresh basil and spinach adds a pop of color and freshness to balance out the richness of the dish. It’s a one-pot meal that’s quick, easy, and full of flavor – perfect for any weeknight or even a romantic dinner!

Ingredients

• 18 oz (500 g) gnocchi, or another short pasta shape
• ½ red onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pinch red pepper or chili flakes (or to taste)
• 2 tsp mixed Italian seasoning
• ⅓ cup (140 g) sundried tomatoes, chopped (see notes)
• 2 tbsp tomato paste (puree)
• ⅔ cup (160 ml) vegetable broth
• ⅔ cup (160 ml) heavy (double) cream
• ¾ cup (80 g) Parmesan-style cheese, grated
• 1 small bunch basil, chopped
• 1-2 handfuls baby spinach, chopped

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Gnocchi:

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions, usually until they float to the surface (about 2-3 minutes). Drain the gnocchi and set aside, reserving some of the pasta water in case you need to adjust the sauce later.

2. Sauté the Aromatics:

In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the diced red onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning, and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Make the Creamy Sauce:

Add the chopped sundried tomatoes and tomato paste to the skillet, stirring to combine. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes until the liquid reduces slightly.

Then, pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 4-5 minutes until it thickens and becomes creamy.

4. Add the Gnocchi:

Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet, tossing to coat the gnocchi in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Stir in the grated Parmesan-style cheese and let it melt into the sauce for extra creaminess.

5. Add the Fresh Ingredients:

Stir in the chopped basil and baby spinach. Cook for an additional minute or two until the spinach wilts and everything is well-combined.

6. Serve:

Serve the creamy sundried tomato gnocchi immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and basil if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cooking time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings

Notes

• Sundried Tomatoes: If using jarred sundried tomatoes in oil, make sure to drain them before chopping. If using dry sundried tomatoes, you may want to soak them in warm water for about 10 minutes before chopping.
• Gnocchi Variations: You can also use another pasta like penne or fusilli if gnocchi isn’t available.
• Vegan Option: To make this dish vegan, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream, and use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Variations

• Add Protein: For added protein, try adding grilled chicken, shrimp to the dish.
• Veggie Add-ins: For extra veggies, you can toss in some sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers to the sauce.
• Spicy Version: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for a spicier kick.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if necessary.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe without sundried tomatoes?

Sundried tomatoes give a rich, umami flavor to the dish, but you can substitute with fresh tomatoes if needed. Just cook them down until they are soft and concentrated before adding the cream.

Can I use dairy-free alternatives for the cream and cheese?

Yes! You can easily make this recipe dairy-free by using plant-based cream (like coconut cream or cashew cream) and dairy-free cheese.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. Cook the gnocchi fresh for the best texture.

Conclusion

This Creamy Sundried Tomato “Marry Me” Gnocchi is a dreamy, comforting dish with rich, savory flavors that come together in just under 30 minutes. The creamy sauce, perfectly tender gnocchi, and fresh basil and spinach make it an irresistible meal that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds!

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