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Looking for a quick and tasty weeknight dinner? Try my Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Gnocchi! This dish is rich, delicious, and easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients like gnocchi, sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy sauce, you can whip up a meal that will impress everyone at your table. Let’s dive into this simple recipe that will elevate your dinner game without the fuss!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Comforting Dish: This creamy gnocchi is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy nights in.
- Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients, this dish can be on the table in under 30 minutes!
- Rich Flavors: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan creates a delightful burst of flavor.
- Customizable: Feel free to add veggies or proteins to the dish to make it your own!
Ingredients
To make Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Gnocchi, you need a few simple ingredients. Here’s what you will need:
– 1 pound (450g) potato gnocchi
– 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
– 1/2 cup (120g) sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
These ingredients work together to create a rich and creamy sauce that brings out the best in the gnocchi. The potato gnocchi acts as a soft base, while the heavy cream adds a lush texture. Sun-dried tomatoes give a burst of flavor, and Parmesan cheese adds depth. Garlic enhances the taste, making this dish truly special.
Using fresh basil as a garnish brightens the dish and adds a pop of color. You can find these ingredients at your local grocery store or specialty market. Make sure to choose high-quality sun-dried tomatoes for the best flavor. This dish is not just easy to make; it is also a delightful meal that can impress anyone at your table.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Gnocchi
– Boiling Water Method: Start by filling a large pot with water. Add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil.
– Cooking Time: Once boiling, add the gnocchi. They will sink at first. After 2-3 minutes, they will float to the top. This means they are done! Drain them and set aside.
Preparing the Sauce
– Sautéing Garlic and Tomatoes: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté them for about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to let them burn. Then, add 1/2 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
– Adding Cream and Cheese: Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir well and let it come to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 5 minutes. This helps the sauce thicken. Finally, mix in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until it melts and becomes creamy.
Combining Gnocchi and Sauce
– Folding Techniques: Gently fold the cooked gnocchi into the sauce. Use a spatula to coat each piece well. Be careful not to break the gnocchi.
– Final Cooking Steps: Let the gnocchi cook in the sauce for an additional minute. This heats them through. Then, remove from heat and serve immediately. You can garnish with fresh basil leaves if you like.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Creamy Consistency
To get the right creamy texture, you need to balance thickness. A thick sauce coats the gnocchi well. A thin sauce may not cling enough. If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water. If it’s too thin, simmer it longer to reduce.
For cream, I recommend heavy cream. It adds rich flavor and smoothness. You can use half-and-half, but it won’t be as creamy. Always stir the cream in slowly. This helps it blend well with the sauce.
Enhancing Flavors
Herbs can elevate your dish. Fresh basil works great, but you can use parsley too. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes gives a nice kick. For a milder flavor, use black pepper instead. Aim for balance, so the herbs enhance, not overpower, the taste.
Presentation Tips
A lovely garnish makes your dish pop. Fresh basil leaves add color and freshness. You can also sprinkle extra Parmesan on top. Serve in a shallow bowl to show off the creamy sauce. Pair it with garlic bread or a light salad for a complete meal.
Pro Tips
- Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality sun-dried tomatoes and fresh Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and creaminess in your sauce.
- Cooking Gnocchi: Make sure the water is at a rolling boil before adding the gnocchi to ensure they cook evenly and rise to the top perfectly.
- Adjusting Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of pasta cooking water to achieve your desired consistency.
- Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs like thyme or oregano for a unique twist on the flavor profile.

Variations
Protein Additions
Chicken Options
You can easily add chicken to your creamy sun-dried tomato gnocchi. Grilled or sautéed chicken breast works best. Cut it into bite-sized pieces and mix it in at the end. It adds a nice texture and flavor.
Sausage Alternatives
For a heartier meal, try sausage. Use Italian or chicken sausage for a boost of flavor. Cook the sausage first until browned, then add the sun-dried tomatoes and cream. This choice gives a spicy kick and complements the creamy sauce well.
Vegetable Enhancements
Spinach or Kale Additions
Adding greens like spinach or kale makes the dish healthier. Toss in a few handfuls right before you finish cooking. They wilt quickly and add color. Plus, they pair nicely with the creamy sauce.
Other Seasonal Vegetables
Feel free to use seasonal veggies. Zucchini, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes work great. Sauté them with the garlic for extra flavor. This keeps your dish fresh and vibrant.
Dietary Adjustments
Gluten-Free Alternatives
If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free gnocchi. Many brands offer delicious choices. This way, everyone can enjoy this creamy dish without worry.
Vegan Substitutions
For a vegan version, swap heavy cream for coconut cream or cashew cream. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor. This keeps the dish creamy and rich while being plant-based.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your creamy sun-dried tomato gnocchi fresh, store it properly. First, let the dish cool down. Then, place it in a container that seals tightly. Glass or plastic containers work well. Make sure to use a container that is not too big; this helps keep the dish from drying out. Store the gnocchi in the fridge for up to three days.
Reheating Tips
When you want to enjoy your leftovers, you can reheat them in two ways. The oven is a great choice, as it warms the dish evenly. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the gnocchi in an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes. The microwave is quicker. Just place a portion in a bowl and heat for about 1-2 minutes. Stir halfway through to help it heat evenly. To keep the creamy texture, add a splash of cream or water if needed.
Freezing Options
If you want to save the gnocchi for later, freezing is a good option. First, let it cool completely. Then, portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Be sure to remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. You can freeze the gnocchi for up to three months. When you are ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat using the stove or microwave, adding a bit of cream to maintain the creamy texture.
FAQs
How can I make my gnocchi from scratch?
To make gnocchi from scratch, use potatoes. Boil them until soft, then mash. Mix the mashed potatoes with flour and an egg to form a dough. Roll the dough into logs and cut small pieces. Shape them by pressing with a fork. Boil the gnocchi until they float, then enjoy!
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes, you can use different cheeses in this dish. Mozzarella gives a nice stretch. Ricotta adds creaminess and flavor. You can also try goat cheese for a tangy twist. Just remember to adjust the amount to keep the sauce creamy.
What can I serve with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Gnocchi?
You can serve this gnocchi with a simple salad. A fresh green salad with vinaigrette pairs well. Garlic bread also complements the dish nicely. You might like to add some roasted vegetables for extra color and taste.
How long does the dish last in the fridge?
The Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Gnocchi lasts about three days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of cream if it looks too thick when reheating.
This blog post covered everything you need to make creamy sun-dried tomato gnocchi. You learned about simple ingredients, easy cooking steps, and great tips. Remember, the key to success is in the sauce and how you mix it with the gnocchi. You can also try variations to suit your taste or diet. Storing leftovers correctly keeps your dish fresh. Enjoy making this tasty meal, and let your cooking shin
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Gnocchi
A delicious and creamy gnocchi dish with sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan cheese.
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 20 minutes mins
Total Time 30 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
- 1 pound potato gnocchi
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 0.5 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- to taste salt and pepper
- for garnish fresh basil leaves
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions until they float to the surface. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir to combine and let it thicken slightly for about 5 minutes.
Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet, stirring until melted and creamy. Season with dried basil, salt, and pepper to taste.
Gently fold in the cooked gnocchi until they are well-coated with the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional minute to heat through.
Remove from heat and serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves for added flavor.
Keyword creamy, gnocchi, pasta, sun-dried tomatoes
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