Parmesan Spinach Gnocchi

The moment I first tasted Parmesan Spinach Gnocchi, I was transported to a cozy little trattoria in Italy. It was a chilly evening, and the aroma of garlic and herbs wafted through the air, promising warmth and comfort. This dish embodies that same essence—creamy, cheesy, and utterly delightful. It’s one of those meals that always brings a smile to my face, reminding me of family gatherings and lively dinners with friends. As I prepared this recipe in my own kitchen, I felt connected to those moments, sharing laughter and stories over a steaming bowl of gnocchi. Each bite is a testament to the love and care that goes into home cooking, and I can’t wait for you to experience it too!

Ingredient List for Parmesan Spinach Gnocchi

Cooking is all about balance, and the ingredients in Parmesan Spinach Gnocchi work together harmoniously to create a satisfying meal. From the creamy sauce to the tender gnocchi, each element plays a vital role. The key players here are the gnocchi, spinach, and Parmesan cheese, all coming together to create a dish that is both comforting and nourishing.

• Olive oil (1 tablespoon): This healthy fat adds richness and helps sauté the onion for a flavorful base.
• Diced onion (½ cup): Provides a sweet and savory flavor that forms the foundation of the sauce.
• Kosher salt (⅛ teaspoon): Enhances the flavors of the dish, ensuring every bite is seasoned perfectly.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Adds an aromatic punch that elevates the overall flavor profile.
• Dried thyme (½ teaspoon): This herb complements the spinach and Parmesan, bringing an earthy note to the dish.
• Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Creates a rich, creamy texture in the sauce, making it irresistible.
• All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons): Acts as a thickening agent for the cream sauce, providing body and richness.
• Whole milk (1 cup): This creamy base is essential for the sauce, ensuring it’s luscious and velvety.
• Ground nutmeg (¼ teaspoon): Adds warmth and depth, a classic flavor that enhances creamy dishes.
• Dried gnocchi (16 ounces): The main star, these little pillows are soft and absorb the sauce beautifully.
• Grated Parmesan cheese (½ cup): Melts into the sauce, providing a salty, nutty flavor that ties everything together.
• Fresh spinach (4 ounces): Adds color, nutrition, and a slight earthiness to the dish.
• Lemon juice (1 lemon, juiced): Brightens the flavors and adds a fresh zing to the creamy sauce.

Step by Step Guide for Parmesan Spinach Gnocchi

Let’s get started on making your very own Parmesan Spinach Gnocchi. Trust me, it’s easier than you might think! As you go through each step, you’ll witness the transformation of simple ingredients into a comforting and delicious meal. Make sure to keep an eye on the gnocchi as they cook; they’re done when they float to the top!

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over medium high heat. It’s important to have the water boiling before adding the gnocchi so they cook evenly. Keep it at a rolling boil until you’re ready to cook the gnocchi.

2. Heat a large high-sided skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil and diced onion. Season with kosher salt and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes, or until the onion is soft and just beginning to brown. You want to get that beautiful golden color—it adds flavor!

3. Next, add the garlic and dried thyme. Cook for another minute or so, letting the garlic become fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn; we want a delicate flavor that complements the dish.

4. Now it’s time to add the butter. Stir until it’s completely melted, then sprinkle the flour over the mixture. Stir it in until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble. This should take about a minute.

5. Slowly pour in the whole milk, stirring constantly. If you notice any large lumps of roux (the mixture of butter and flour), whisk them until smooth. The goal is a creamy sauce that’s free of lumps!

6. Bring this sauce to a gentle bubble and cook just until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon—about 5 minutes. Once you see it’s thickened, remove it from the heat and add the ground nutmeg. Don’t forget to season it with salt and pepper to taste!

7. By now, your water should be boiling. Add the gnocchi to the pot and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 3 minutes. They’re done when they rise to the top—keep an eye on them!

8. While the gnocchi cook, add the grated Parmesan cheese, fresh spinach, and lemon juice to your cream sauce in the skillet. Stir until combined, even if the spinach doesn’t fully wilt yet—it will continue to cook with the heat of the sauce.

9. Once the gnocchi rise to the top of the pot, they’re ready! Use a spider strainer to scoop them out and add them to the creamy spinach sauce. Toss gently to combine everything together. You want each gnocchi to be coated in that lovely sauce!

Recipe Variations about Parmesan Spinach Gnocchi

If you’re looking to switch up your Parmesan Spinach Gnocchi, there are plenty of variations you can try! From adding different vegetables to changing the cheese, the possibilities are endless. Let’s explore some creative ideas to make this dish your own.

• Vegetable Add-Ins: Consider adding roasted mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for a unique twist. They add flavor and texture that complement the dish beautifully.
• Cheese Alternatives: If you want to change the flavor profile, substitute Parmesan with gruyere or fontina. Both melt wonderfully and bring a rich taste.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat. It gives the dish an exciting zing!
• Herb Variations: Swap out thyme for fresh basil or oregano. Each herb will give the dish a different flavor profile, making it fresh and new.
• Vegan Twist: For a plant-based version, use a dairy-free cream substitute and nutritional yeast instead of cheese, creating a creamy and cheesy experience without animal products.
• Protein Boost: Add sautéed chicken or shrimp for a more hearty meal. Both proteins pair beautifully with the creamy sauce.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This dish is perfect for meal prep! Make a larger batch and portion it out for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Serving Options for Parmesan Spinach Gnocchi

When it comes to serving Parmesan Spinach Gnocchi, you’ll want to showcase this beautiful dish in a way that makes it irresistible. Here are some delightful serving suggestions:

• With Garlic Bread: Serve it alongside warm garlic bread for a complete Italian experience. The bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce.
• Fresh Salad: Pair it with a crisp garden salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad complements the richness of the pasta.
• Wine Pairing: A chilled glass of sparkling water or a light white wine enhances the meal and offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy sauce.
• For Special Occasions: This dish is perfect for date nights or celebrations. Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a nice protein for a gourmet touch.
• Seasonal Touch: Top with fresh herbs like basil or parsley in spring for a vibrant touch. In the fall, consider adding roasted butternut squash for extra flavor.
• Leftover Bliss: Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. It’s just as delightful the next day!

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, Parmesan Spinach Gnocchi is a dish that beautifully combines comfort and flavor. It’s a perfect recipe for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, bringing a bit of Italy into your home. I hope you give this delightful dish a try; it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Happy cooking!

Parmesan Spinach Gnocchi

The ultimate comfort food, Parmesan Spinach Gnocchi blends creamy cheese and tender gnocchi, creating a dish that's both satisfying and easy to prepare. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this recipe will have you craving it again and again. Make it tonight for a delightful dining experience!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Side Dishes

Cuisine Italian

Servings 4 servings

Calories 540 kcal

Equipment

• Skillet
• Whisk
• Large Pot
• Grater
• Wooden Spoon
• Cutting Board
• Mixing Bowl

Ingredients

  

• 1 tablespoon Olive oil
• ½ cup Diced onion
• ⅛ teaspoon Kosher salt
• 2 cloves Garlic minced
• ½ teaspoon Dried thyme
• 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter ¼ stick
• 2 tablespoons All-purpose flour
• 1 cup Whole milk
• ¼ teaspoon Ground nutmeg
• 16 ounces Dried gnocchi
• ½ cup Grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 ounces Fresh spinach
• 1 lemon Lemon juice juiced

Instructions

 

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over medium high heat. Keep it at a rolling boil until you’re ready to cook the gnocchi.
• Heat a large high-sided skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil and onion. Season with kosher salt and cook for 4-5 minutes or until the onion is soft and just beginning to brown.
• Add the garlic and thyme and cook for another minute.
• Add the butter and stir until it has completely melted. Sprinkle over the flour and stir until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble. Cook for an additional minute.
• Slowly add the milk, stirring constantly. If there are any large lumps of roux, whisk them until smooth.
• Bring the sauce to a bubble and cook just until it has thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon– about 5 minutes. Once the sauce has thickened, remove it from the heat and add the ground nutmeg. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Add the gnocchi to the boiling water and cook for the time designated on the package– usually about 3 minutes.
• While the gnocchi cook, add the parmesan, spinach, and lemon juice to the cream sauce and stir to combine. The spinach may not fully wilt yet– that’s okay!
• Once the gnocchi rise to the top of the pot, they are ready! Scoop out the gnocchi and add them to the spinach cream sauce. Toss to combine.

Notes

• Tip 1: You can use fresh, homemade, frozen, or gnocchi for this recipe.
• Tip 2: You can use 2% milk or even half-and-half in place of the whole milk.
• Tip 3: While I love nutmeg in a gratin dish, you can skip it if it’s not your thing.
• Tip 4: Substitute the Parmesan with your favorite melting cheese, such as fontina, gruyere, or pecorino.
• Tip 5: To prevent your sauce from separating, be sure to cook it over low and slow heat.
• Tip 6: If your sauce is too thick, add ¼-½ cup of milk and whisk until it reaches the desired consistency.
• Tip 7: If your sauce is too thin, add ¼-½ cup of hot starchy water from the gnocchi pot and toss to combine.

Keyword Creamy Gnocchi, Italian Dinner Recipe, Parmesan Gnocchi, Spinach Gnocchi Recipe

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Meet Lydia James

I’m Lydia! I love the challenge of experimenting with new ingredients and finding creative, delicious ways to use up leftovers. My goal is to make your weeknight cooking feel stress-free, exciting, and full of flavor. I loved the creative process behind this dish, and I really hope it becomes a new favorite in your weekly rotation. I can't wait to hear what you think!