Millionaire Gnocchi with Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe
This Millionaire Gnocchi recipe offers a rich and creamy sauce that transforms simple store-bought gnocchi into a luxurious, cozy meal perfect for date nights or comforting dinners. The sauce blends butter, garlic, cream, and Parmesan with fresh thyme and optional additions like spinach, nuts, or crispy pancetta for a deliciously indulgent dish that’s quick and easy to prepare.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) store-bought gnocchi
- 3 tablespoons (42g) unsalted butter
- 3 large garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- ¾ cup (75g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Optional Add-ins
- 1 cup (30g) baby spinach or arugula
- ¼ cup (30g) toasted pine nuts or walnuts
- ⅓ cup (50g) crispy pancetta or bacon bits
Instructions
- Boil the Gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rapid boil, which takes about 10 minutes. Add the gnocchi and cook until they float to the surface, then continue cooking for 30 seconds before removing them with a slotted spoon or draining in a colander. Set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In a 10-inch skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned, ensuring the garlic releases its flavors without burning.
- Prepare Cream Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and stir in fresh thyme leaves if using. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 3 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
- Add Parmesan Cheese: Reduce the heat and gradually incorporate the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly. Continue until the cheese melts completely, and the sauce becomes smooth. Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
- Combine Gnocchi and Sauce: Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet and gently fold them into the creamy sauce to ensure they are evenly coated. If using spinach or arugula, toss it in at this point and let it wilt for about 1 minute.
- Serve and Garnish: Transfer the creamy gnocchi to serving plates or a dish. Sprinkle with toasted nuts or crispy pancetta if desired for added texture and flavor. Serve immediately while warm and creamy.
Notes
- Using store-bought gnocchi saves time but fresh gnocchi can be used for a more homemade touch.
- The sauce should be gently simmered, not boiled rapidly, to prevent cream from curdling.
- Adjust salt carefully after adding Parmesan to avoid over-salting.
- Optional add-ins such as spinach, nuts, or pancetta provide texture and extra flavor.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the sauce at its creamiest.
Keywords: Millionaire Gnocchi, creamy gnocchi sauce, easy gnocchi recipe, cozy date night meal, Italian gnocchi dinner, garlic cream sauce, Parmesan gnocchi
