Cozy Dinner Idea: Creamy Tomato Gnocchi in 30 Minutes
This creamy tomato gnocchi is the ultimate cozy dinner made in one pan. Featuring pillowy potato gnocchi coated in a luscious tomato cream sauce with wilted spinach, melty Parmesan, and fresh basil, it’s the perfect 30-minute meal for busy weeknights. Quick, comforting, and vegetarian-friendly, it’s a dish the whole family will love.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
- ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in crushed tomatoes and stir. Let simmer for 5–7 minutes to slightly thicken.
Stir in the cream and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer for another 2–3 minutes.
Meanwhile, cook the gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Add the cooked gnocchi to the tomato cream sauce and stir to coat evenly.
Fold in fresh spinach and let it wilt in the warm sauce for 1–2 minutes.
Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
Top with fresh chopped basil before serving.
Notes
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To make it vegan: Use non-dairy cream, skip the Parmesan or sub in nutritional yeast, and check that your gnocchi is egg-free.
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To make it gluten-free: Use certified gluten-free gnocchi.
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Customize with protein: Stir in cooked Italian sausage or canned white beans.
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Boost the veggies: Add chopped zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms when sautéing the garlic.
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Don’t skip the fresh basil: It adds a bright, fragrant finish that elevates the whole dish.