Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Gnocchi

There’s something truly comforting about a plate of Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Gnocchi. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a chilly evening, and the warmth of the kitchen filled me with nostalgia. As I sautéed the onions and garlic, the aroma wafted through the air, instantly lifting my spirits. This recipe has become a staple in my home, perfect for weeknights when you want something easy yet flavorful. The creamy sauce, paired with the sweet tang of sun-dried tomatoes and the chewy texture of gnocchi, creates a delightful feast for the senses. Whether it’s for a cozy dinner for two or a gathering with friends, Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Gnocchi never fails to impress. It’s a dish that brings people together, sparking joy and conversation around the table.

Ingredients Overview for Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Gnocchi

The ingredients for Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Gnocchi are simple yet effective. Each component plays a crucial role in creating a harmonious balance of flavor and texture. The star of the show, of course, is the gnocchi, which absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully. Then we have the sun-dried tomatoes, adding a burst of flavor and color, complemented by the fresh spinach that brings a lovely brightness to the dish.

• 1 onion: Finely chopped, it serves as the aromatic base for the sauce, providing sweetness and depth.
• 4 cloves garlic: Minced for a punch of flavor, garlic enhances the overall taste.
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes: These tomatoes add a rich, tangy sweetness that is the essence of this dish.
• 3 tablespoons oil: The oil from the sun-dried tomatoes infuses the dish with additional flavor.
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: This thickens the sauce, creating a luscious texture.
• 1 ½ cups vegetable broth: Adds depth and moisture to the sauce.
• 2 teaspoons tomato paste: Enhances the tomato flavor and contributes to the sauce’s richness.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Provides that creamy texture that makes this dish so comforting.
• ½ teaspoon Italian herbs: A blend of herbs that brings warmth and complexity to the sauce.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a hint of spice to balance the creaminess.
• 1 lb potato gnocchi: The heart of the dish, these soft dumplings soak up the sauce perfectly.
• 1 cup fresh spinach: Adds color, nutrition, and a fresh flavor to the dish.
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese: For serving, this cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor that is irresistible.
• Fresh basil: To serve, it provides a fresh and fragrant finish.
• Extra parmesan: Optional, but who can resist more cheese?

Recipe Directions for Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Gnocchi

Making Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Gnocchi is a breeze! Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time. Let’s dive into the process and enjoy this flavorful journey together.

1. First, peel and finely chop the onion and garlic. Heat a deep skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat, and add 3 tablespoons oil from the sun-dried tomato jar. Once hot, add the chopped onion and cook for about three to four minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional thirty seconds until fragrant. You want to see the onion turn translucent and soft.
2. Next, sprinkle 2 tablespoons flour over the sautéed onion and stir well to coat. This will help thicken your sauce, so make sure it’s evenly mixed in without any lumps.
3. Now, slowly pour in 1 ½ cups vegetable broth, stirring constantly to keep the mixture smooth. You’ll notice it starts to thicken as the flour incorporates. Keep stirring until it’s well combined.
4. Add the sliced sun-dried tomatoes and 2 teaspoons tomato paste to the skillet, stirring to mix everything together. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about five minutes. You should see it bubbling lightly, which will intensify the flavors.
5. Now, it’s time to bring on the cream! Add in 1 cup heavy cream, ½ teaspoon Italian herbs, ¼ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Stir everything together to create a rich and creamy sauce. The sauce should be velvety and smooth at this point.
6. Add the 1 lb store-bought potato gnocchi to the pan, stirring gently to coat them in the sauce. Cover the pan and reduce the heat to medium, allowing it to cook for six to seven minutes. You’ll want to check the gnocchi occasionally; they’re done when they float to the top and are tender to the bite.
7. Once the gnocchi is cooked, stir in 1 cup fresh spinach and ½ cup grated parmesan cheese. The spinach will wilt quickly, adding a beautiful color and a fresh taste to your dish.
8. Cook for another minute, allowing the cheese to melt into the sauce and the spinach to soften. Taste for seasoning now; you may want to add a bit more salt or pepper according to your preference.
9. Finally, serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and extra parmesan cheese on top. Enjoy your culinary creation with a side of crusty bread or a simple salad.

Tips and Tricks about Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Gnocchi

Perfecting Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Gnocchi is all about the little details. Here are some tips to enhance your cooking experience and the results:

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth to loosen the sauce.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen, but the texture of the gnocchi may change. It’s best to freeze the sauce separately from the gnocchi.
• Pairing: Serve with a side of garlic bread or a light salad for a complete meal experience.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and high-quality sun-dried tomatoes will elevate the flavor of your sauce significantly.
• Make it your own: Feel free to add in other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.

What to Serve With Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Gnocchi

This dish is delightful on its own, but if you want to take your meal to the next level, consider these serving suggestions:

• Crusty Bread: A slice of fresh, crusty bread is perfect for scooping up that creamy sauce.
• Simple Green Salad: A side salad with a light vinaigrette will complement the richness of the gnocchi.
• Grilled Vegetables: Roasted or grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers add a colorful and nutritious touch.
• Seasonal Roasted Asparagus: This adds a lovely crunch and earthy flavor that balances the creaminess of the dish.
• Perfect for a Cozy Dinner: This dish is excellent for date night or a small gathering. It’s easy to make and sure to impress!

FAQ

Conclusion

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Gnocchi is a delightful dish that combines comfort and flavor beautifully. Its creamy sauce and tender gnocchi create an irresistible meal that’s perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a new favorite in your home!

Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Gnocchi

The ultimate comfort food, Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Gnocchi is creamy, rich, and easy to make. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this delightful dish will satisfy your cravings and impress your guests. Make it tonight for a comforting meal that everyone will love!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Italian

Servings 4 servings

Calories 560 kcal

Equipment

• Wooden Spoon
• Peeler
• Grater
• Frying Pan
• Skillet
• Chef's Knife
• Saucepan

Ingredients

  

• 1 unit onion
• 4 cloves garlic
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes
• 3 tablespoons oil from the sundried tomato jar
• 2 tablespoons AP flour
• 1 ½ cups vegetable broth
• 2 teaspoons tomato paste
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ teaspoon Italian herbs
• ¼ teaspoon salt more to taste
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper more to taste
• 1 lb potato gnocchi store-bought
• 1 cup fresh spinach
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese I like fresh
• fresh basil to serve
• extra parmesan to serve

Instructions

 

• First, peel and finely chop the onion and garlic. Heat a deep skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat, and add 3 tablespoons oil from the sun-dried tomato jar. Once hot, add the chopped onion and cook for about three to four minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional thirty seconds until fragrant. You want to see the onion turn translucent and soft.
• Next, sprinkle 2 tablespoons flour over the sautéed onion and stir well to coat. This will help thicken your sauce, so make sure it's evenly mixed in without any lumps.
• Now, slowly pour in 1 ½ cups vegetable broth, stirring constantly to keep the mixture smooth. You’ll notice it starts to thicken as the flour incorporates. Keep stirring until it’s well combined.
• Add the sliced sun-dried tomatoes and 2 teaspoons tomato paste to the skillet, stirring to mix everything together. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about five minutes. You should see it bubbling lightly, which will intensify the flavors.
• Now, it’s time to bring on the cream! Add in 1 cup heavy cream, ½ teaspoon Italian herbs, ¼ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Stir everything together to create a rich and creamy sauce. The sauce should be velvety and smooth at this point.
• Add the 1 lb store-bought potato gnocchi to the pan, stirring gently to coat them in the sauce. Cover the pan and reduce the heat to medium, allowing it to cook for six to seven minutes. You’ll want to check the gnocchi occasionally; they’re done when they float to the top and are tender to the bite.
• Once the gnocchi is cooked, stir in 1 cup fresh spinach and ½ cup grated parmesan cheese. The spinach will wilt quickly, adding a beautiful color and a fresh taste to your dish.
• Cook for another minute, allowing the cheese to melt into the sauce and the spinach to soften. Taste for seasoning now; you may want to add a bit more salt or pepper according to your preference.
• Finally, serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and extra parmesan cheese on top. Enjoy your culinary creation with a side of crusty bread or a simple salad.

Notes

• Tip 1: You can buy sun-dried tomatoes already cut into strips - called julienned sun-dried tomatoes!
• Tip 2: When buying sun-dried tomatoes, buy the ones in oil; that oil is packed with flavor.
• Tip 3: You can use two teaspoons of tomato paste or swap for one tablespoon of canned tomato/passata.
• Tip 4: Look for the long life shelf-stable packages; you will find it on the pasta aisle at the grocery store.

Keyword Creamy Gnocchi Recipe, Easy Gnocchi Dinner, Italian Comfort Food, Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta