Name: Creamy Sundried Tomato “Marry Me” Gnocchi Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 18 oz gnocchi (or another short pasta shape); 1/2 red onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 pinch red pepper or chili flakes (or to taste); 2 tsp mixed Italian seasoning; 1/3 cup sundried tomatoes, chopped (see notes); 2 tbsp tomato paste (puree); 2/3 cup vegetable broth; 2/3 cup heavy (double) cream; 3/4 cup Parmesan-style cheese, grated; 1 small bunch basil, chopped; 1-2 handfuls baby spinach, chopped; Olive oil (preferably oil from the sundried tomato jar) for sautéing and frying

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Introduction

This Creamy Sundried Tomato “Marry Me” Gnocchi is a comforting and indulgent dish that combines tender gnocchi with a rich, flavorful sauce. The sundried tomatoes and Italian seasoning add depth, while fresh basil and spinach bring a bright, fresh finish. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner any night of the week.

A white pan contains a layer of chunky dark red sun-dried tomatoes spread around the edges, topped with a thick layer of yellow gnocchi piled in the middle. A woman's hand is pouring clear liquid from a glass measuring cup into the pan. Around the pan, there is a white bowl filled with green spinach leaves on the left, a small white plate with chopped fresh green herbs above the pan, a white jug of cream at the top right, and a white bowl with shredded chicken at the bottom right. The scene is set on a white marbled surface with scattered spinach leaves and a white cloth nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

18 oz gnocchi (or another short pasta shape)
1/2 red onion (diced)
3 cloves garlic
1 pinch red pepper or chili flakes (or to taste)
2 tsp mixed Italian seasoning
1/3 cup sundried tomatoes (chopped, see notes)
2 tbsp tomato paste (puree)
2/3 cup vegetable broth
2/3 cup heavy (double) cream
3/4 cup parmesan style cheese (grated)
1 small bunch basil (chopped)
1-2 handfuls baby spinach (chopped)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large, deep saucepan, heat a little olive oil (ideally the oil from the sundried tomato jar) over low-medium heat. Sauté the diced onion until soft. Add the garlic, red pepper or chili flakes, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and chopped sundried tomatoes. Continue to sauté for a few more minutes until fragrant and softened.
Step 2: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another couple of minutes. Pour in the vegetable broth and simmer partially covered while you prepare the gnocchi. The sauce will thicken slightly.
Step 3: In a separate pan, heat a layer of olive oil over low-medium heat. Pan fry the gnocchi until crisp and golden on all sides. This may take about 10 minutes; cook low and slow to ensure they are soft inside and nicely browned outside.
Step 4: Once the gnocchi is nearly done, return to the sauce and add the heavy cream and grated parmesan. Simmer gently until the cheese melts through. Then stir in the chopped spinach and basil, cooking until the greens begin to wilt.
Step 5: Toss the crispy gnocchi through the creamy sauce. Plate immediately and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious meal!

Tips & Variations

Use the oil from the sundried tomato jar for extra flavor when sautéing and frying.
Swap heavy cream for coconut cream for a dairy-free version, adjusting seasoning to taste.
Add cooked chicken or sausage for a protein boost.
For a spicier dish, increase the amount of chili flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
Freshly grated parmesan will melt more smoothly and lend better flavor than pre-grated options.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving at high power to preserve the gnocchi’s texture.

How to Serve

The image shows a white bowl filled with creamy orange gnocchi pasta that is covered in a thick sauce. The gnocchi pieces are soft and round, coated evenly with a sauce that has bits of green leafy herbs and small pieces of red sun-dried tomatoes. There are some white shavings of cheese sprinkled on top, adding texture. A fork is placed inside the bowl, lifting some gnocchi. The bowl is set on a white cloth on a white marbled surface, with another similar bowl in the upper right corner partially visible. A small glass bowl with grated cheese is in the top left background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use dried gnocchi for this recipe?

Yes, dried gnocchi can be used, but cook them according to package instructions before pan frying to ensure they are tender inside.

What can I substitute for sundried tomatoes if I don’t have any?

You can use sun-dried tomato paste, roasted red peppers, or even fresh tomatoes cooked down to add a similar richness and tang to the sauce.