Marry Me Gnocchi Recipe

If you are looking for a dish that is comfort food elevated to something truly special, then Marry Me Gnocchi should be your next kitchen adventure. This creamy, garlicky gnocchi recipe combines tender potato dumplings with a dreamy sauce bursting with sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and just the right kick of red pepper flakes. Every bite invites you in with layers of flavor and a luscious texture that will have you craving seconds, thirds, and maybe even more. Trust me, once you try this Marry Me Gnocchi, it won’t be long before it earns a permanent place on your favorite dinner rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic in Marry Me Gnocchi starts with a handful of simple, quality ingredients that work together beautifully. Each one is essential, lending taste, texture, or color that makes this dish irresistible and satisfying.

• Olive oil: Adds a fruity, rich base for sautéing garlic and infuses the sauce with depth.
• Unsalted butter: Brings a silky richness and helps marry all the flavors in the sauce.
• Garlic, minced: The aromatic backbone that brightens the entire dish.
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Provides a subtle heat that lifts the creaminess without overpowering.
• Chicken broth: Adds savory depth and thins the cream slightly, keeping the sauce luscious but not heavy.
• Heavy cream: Gives the sauce a velvety, indulgent texture that clings perfectly to gnocchi.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a salty, nutty punch that enriches the sauce’s flavor profile.
• Salt: Enhances every ingredient and balances the dish beautifully.
• Black pepper: Adds a mild, warming spice to complement the richness.
• Sun-dried tomatoes: Bring a concentrated burst of tangy sweetness and a gorgeous fleck of color.
• Potato gnocchi: The soft, pillowy stars of the dish that soak up all the delicious sauce.
• Baby spinach: Adds freshness and a vibrant green that brightens the plate and flavor.
• Fresh basil, chopped: Provides an herbal fragrance and lively finish.
• Extra Parmesan and basil (for garnish): Perfect finishing touches that make every serving feel special.

How to Make Marry Me Gnocchi

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Begin by heating olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat until melted and sizzling. Add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes, then sauté just until fragrant—about 30 seconds. This step infuses the oil with those irresistible garlic notes and a hint of spice that set the stage for the entire sauce.

Step 2: Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, gently stirring to combine. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and let the mixture simmer for 2 to 3 minutes. During this time, the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly, achieving that perfect balance of creamy and savory with a silky texture that coats every gnocchi piece beautifully.

Step 3: Season and Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Season the sauce with salt and black pepper to taste, then stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes. These concentrated bursts of tomato flavor add a tangy sweetness and vibrant color against the creamy backdrop, making every bite a delightful surprise.

Step 4: Cook the Gnocchi in the Sauce

Next, add the potato gnocchi directly into the skillet with the sauce. Let it simmer gently for about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, so the gnocchi cooks through and absorbs the flavors while the sauce thickens to the ideal consistency. You want those tender pillows to be perfectly soft but still hold their shape.

Step 5: Wilt the Spinach and Stir in Basil

Remove the skillet from heat and fold in the baby spinach, allowing it to wilt in the residual warmth. Finally, stir in freshly chopped basil. This fresh herbal kick brightens the entire dish so it feels light and balanced despite the richness of the sauce.

How to Serve Marry Me Gnocchi

Garnishes

Don’t skimp on the finishing touches! A generous sprinkle of extra Parmesan and a few torn basil leaves on top elevate the Marry Me Gnocchi from delicious to downright stunning. These garnishes add beautiful texture and a burst of fresh flavor with every bite.

Side Dishes

Marry Me Gnocchi shines perfectly on its own but pairs wonderfully with crisp, simple sides like a fresh mixed greens salad with lemon vinaigrette or roasted asparagus. Light sides contrast beautifully with the creamy gnocchi and keep the meal feeling balanced and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

For a more elegant presentation, serve the gnocchi family-style in a rustic skillet surrounded by scattered herbs and Parmesan shavings, inviting your guests to dig in. Or plate it individually with a drizzle of olive oil and a few chili flakes for a welcome pop of color and heat that makes it look as flattering as it tastes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store any leftover Marry Me Gnocchi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce thickens as it cools, so when you’re ready to enjoy it again, a little gentle reheating with a splash of cream or broth will help restore the luscious texture.

Freezing

If you want to freeze this delightful dish, it’s best to prepare the gnocchi and sauce separately since the texture can change in the freezer. Freeze cooked gnocchi in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag, and store sauce in a sealed container. Thaw both slowly in the fridge before combining and reheating gently on the stove.

Reheating

When reheating Marry Me Gnocchi, use low heat on the stove and add a little chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently so the gnocchi heat evenly without sticking to the pan. Microwave works too, but be careful not to dry it out by reheating in short bursts and covering the dish.

FAQs

Can I make Marry Me Gnocchi vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth, and you’ll still get that rich, full-bodied flavor without any meat. The Parmesan and cream keep it satisfyingly hearty and delicious.

What is the best kind of gnocchi to use?

Store-bought potato gnocchi works perfectly for this recipe because it cooks quickly and soaks up the sauce wonderfully. If you prefer making your own gnocchi from scratch, that’s even better and adds a homemade touch.

How spicy is this dish?

The crushed red pepper flakes add just a gentle warmth that complements the creamy sauce without overwhelming it. You can always omit or adjust the quantity to match your heat preference.

Can I use sun-dried tomatoes packed in water?

Sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil are preferred because they add flavor and richness, but if you only have the water-packed variety, that works too. Just drain them well and consider tossing them in a little olive oil before adding to the sauce.

Is this recipe suitable for a dinner party?

Definitely! Marry Me Gnocchi has an impressive yet approachable flair that makes it a perfect dish to serve when you want to wow guests with comfort and elegance on a plate.

Final Thoughts

Marry Me Gnocchi is one of those recipes you’ll find yourself making again and again because it balances creamy indulgence with bright fresh flavors so effortlessly. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish always wins hearts and fills the room with irresistible aromas. So grab your skillet and get ready to create a meal that deserves every bit of its swoon-worthy name – you won’t regret it!

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