Creamy Garlic Parmesan Gnocchi Rich and Flavorful Dish

Name: Creamy Garlic Parmesan Gnocchi
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 pound potato gnocchi; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning; to taste Salt and pepper; for garnish Fresh parsley, chopped

October 18, 2025June 6, 2025 by Amelia

Are you ready to wow your taste buds? This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Gnocchi is rich, flavorful, and easy to make. With its tender gnocchi, buttery sauce, and golden garlic, it’s the perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re a busy cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe offers delicious comfort in every bite. Let’s dive into the simple steps that will turn your dinner into something truly special!

Why I Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, taking only 20 minutes from start to finish.
Creamy and Rich: The combination of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese creates a decadent sauce that coats the gnocchi beautifully.
Flavorful Garlic Kick: With both minced garlic and garlic powder, this dish delivers a satisfying garlicky flavor in every bite.
Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or protein to make this dish your own!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 pound potato gnocchi
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

To make creamy garlic parmesan gnocchi, you need simple, tasty ingredients. The star of this dish is the potato gnocchi. They are soft and chewy, making them perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. Use about a pound for four servings.

Next, you’ll need unsalted butter. Three tablespoons will give the dish a rich flavor. The garlic is key here, too. You’ll want four cloves, minced finely so it spreads its flavor evenly.

Heavy cream adds richness to the sauce. You’ll use one cup, which makes it smooth and creamy. Finally, don’t forget the Parmesan cheese. One cup of grated cheese adds a salty taste that balances the creaminess.

Seasoning and Garnish

1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Seasoning is where you can really bring this dish to life. Start with one teaspoon of garlic powder. This enhances the garlic flavor and gives depth. Add half a teaspoon of Italian seasoning for a hint of herbs.

Salt and pepper will help you adjust the flavors to your liking. Always taste your sauce before serving. Finally, fresh parsley adds a nice pop of color and freshness. Chop it finely and sprinkle it on before serving. This will make your dish look beautiful and inviting.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Gnocchi

To start, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Use enough water to allow the gnocchi to move freely. Once the water boils, add the 1 pound of potato gnocchi. Cook them according to the package instructions. Watch closely for them to float. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. When they float to the top, they are done. Drain them in a colander and set aside.

Sautéing the Garlic

Next, you will sauté the garlic. In a large skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 4 cloves of minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 1-2 minutes. The garlic should smell great but not turn brown. If you burn the garlic, it becomes bitter. Fresh garlic makes a big difference in flavor, so always use the real thing.

Making the Cream Sauce

After the garlic is ready, it’s time to make the cream sauce. Slowly pour in 1 cup of heavy cream while stirring the mixture. Allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes. This helps the sauce thicken slightly. Keep stirring as it simmers. A good cream sauce should be smooth and rich.

Combining Ingredients

Next, gently fold in the cooked gnocchi. Make sure each piece is well-coated in the sauce. Stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. If the sauce gets too thick, add a bit of pasta water. This helps adjust the sauce consistency.

Final Touches

Once everything is combined, remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. This adds color and freshness to your dish. Serve the creamy garlic Parmesan gnocchi right away for the best flavor and texture. Enjoy your rich and flavorful meal!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Sauce

To make a smooth sauce, start with melted butter. Add minced garlic and let it cook just a bit. When you pour in the heavy cream, stir it well. This helps mix the flavors together. Simmer the sauce for two to three minutes. If it gets too thick, add some pasta water. This will help keep it creamy.

If you want a lighter option, use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream. You can even try Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. Just be careful not to cook it too long, or it may curdle.

Gnocchi Cooking Tips

If your gnocchi does not float, don’t worry. It may need a little more time. Keep checking every minute or so until it rises. Cook time usually ranges from two to three minutes.

When choosing gnocchi, homemade offers a fresh taste. Store-bought is quick and easy. Both can work well in this recipe. If you want to try making your own, look for simple potato gnocchi recipes online.

Flavor Enhancements

For a tasty twist, add fresh spinach or sautéed mushrooms to the sauce. These add flavor and nutrients. You can also mix in sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor.

If you enjoy spiciness, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Italian seasoning already adds a nice touch. Feel free to experiment with herbs like thyme or oregano. Each will change the dish’s flavor profile.

Pro Tips

Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides a more intense flavor compared to pre-minced or jarred options, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
Choose Quality Parmesan: Opt for freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-packaged to achieve a creamier texture and richer flavor in your sauce.
Adjust Sauce Consistency: If your sauce becomes too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water to loosen it up without compromising the creaminess.
Garnish for Color: Adding freshly chopped parsley not only brightens the dish visually but also adds a fresh flavor contrast to the creamy sauce.

Variations

Vegetarian Options

You can make creamy garlic parmesan gnocchi even better with veggies. Try adding spinach, mushrooms, or peas. These will add color and taste. You can also use a mix of roasted vegetables. They will give the dish a nice crunch. If you want cheese alternatives, use a blend of goat cheese or ricotta for a creamy texture. This keeps your dish rich while catering to different tastes.

Protein Additions

Want to boost the protein? Add chicken or shrimp to your gnocchi. Cook the protein in the same skillet after sautéing the garlic. This adds great flavor to the sauce. Season the chicken or shrimp with salt and pepper. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. This helps balance the creamy sauce.

Dietary-Specific Versions

If you need gluten-free options, look for gluten-free gnocchi. Many brands offer this, and they taste great. For a vegan version, use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream. These options keep the dish creamy without dairy. Always check the labels to ensure they fit your dietary needs.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your creamy garlic parmesan gnocchi fresh, follow these simple steps:

Place leftovers in an airtight container.
Let the dish cool down to room temperature first.
Store it in the fridge.

When stored properly, the gnocchi can last up to three days in the fridge. Make sure to check for any signs of spoilage before enjoying it again.

Reheating Tips

To reheat your gnocchi without losing texture, consider these methods:

Use a skillet on medium heat. Add a splash of water or cream to keep it moist.
Stir gently as it warms up to avoid breaking the gnocchi.
You can also use the microwave. Place the gnocchi in a microwave-safe bowl with a bit of water. Cover it and heat in short bursts, stirring in between.

For the best results, aim for about 3-5 minutes in the skillet or 2-4 minutes in the microwave. Always check that it’s heated through before serving.

FAQs

What is the best way to cook gnocchi?

The best way to cook gnocchi is by using a stovetop. Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the gnocchi and cook them for about 2-3 minutes. They are done when they float to the top. Baking gnocchi is another option, but it can dry them out. Stovetop cooking keeps them soft and fluffy.

Can I freeze creamy garlic parmesan gnocchi?

Yes, you can freeze creamy garlic parmesan gnocchi. It’s best to freeze gnocchi before cooking. If you have leftovers, allow them to cool first. Place them in an airtight container. They last about 2-3 months in the freezer. You can refrigerate cooked gnocchi for 3-4 days, but freezing keeps them fresh longer.

How do I know when gnocchi is done cooking?

Gnocchi is done cooking when it floats to the top of the water. This usually takes 2-3 minutes. You can also test one by tasting it. It should be soft but firm. Avoid overcooking, as they can become mushy. Keep a close eye on them while cooking.

In this post, we explored how to make creamy garlic parmesan gnocchi. We covered the main ingredients, the step-by-step process, and tips for perfect results. You learned how to enhance flavors and create variations for different diets. Storing and reheating tips ensure you can enjoy leftovers too.

Remember, cooking is about joy and creativity. Experiment with flavors and make it your own. Enjoy your delicious gnocch

$- 1 pound potato gnocchi - 3 tablespoons unsalted butter - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese To make creamy garlic parmesan gnocchi, you need simple, tasty ingredients. The star of this dish is the potato gnocchi. They are soft and chewy, making them perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. Use about a pound for four servings. Next, you’ll need unsalted butter. Three tablespoons will give the dish a rich flavor. The garlic is key here, too. You’ll want four cloves, minced finely so it spreads its flavor evenly. Heavy cream adds richness to the sauce. You’ll use one cup, which makes it smooth and creamy. Finally, don’t forget the Parmesan cheese. One cup of grated cheese adds a salty taste that balances the creaminess. - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish Seasoning is where you can really bring this dish to life. Start with one teaspoon of garlic powder. This enhances the garlic flavor and gives depth. Add half a teaspoon of Italian seasoning for a hint of herbs. Salt and pepper will help you adjust the flavors to your liking. Always taste your sauce before serving. Finally, fresh parsley adds a nice pop of color and freshness. Chop it finely and sprinkle it on before serving. This will make your dish look beautiful and inviting. {{ingredient_image_1}} To start, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Use enough water to allow the gnocchi to move freely. Once the water boils, add the 1 pound of potato gnocchi. Cook them according to the package instructions. Watch closely for them to float. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. When they float to the top, they are done. Drain them in a colander and set aside. Next, you will sauté the garlic. In a large skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 4 cloves of minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 1-2 minutes. The garlic should smell great but not turn brown. If you burn the garlic, it becomes bitter. Fresh garlic makes a big difference in flavor, so always use the real thing. After the garlic is ready, it's time to make the cream sauce. Slowly pour in 1 cup of heavy cream while stirring the mixture. Allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes. This helps the sauce thicken slightly. Keep stirring as it simmers. A good cream sauce should be smooth and rich. Next, gently fold in the cooked gnocchi. Make sure each piece is well-coated in the sauce. Stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. If the sauce gets too thick, add a bit of pasta water. This helps adjust the sauce consistency. Once everything is combined, remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. This adds color and freshness to your dish. Serve the creamy garlic Parmesan gnocchi right away for the best flavor and texture. Enjoy your rich and flavorful meal! To make a smooth sauce, start with melted butter. Add minced garlic and let it cook just a bit. When you pour in the heavy cream, stir it well. This helps mix the flavors together. Simmer the sauce for two to three minutes. If it gets too thick, add some pasta water. This will help keep it creamy. If you want a lighter option, use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream. You can even try Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. Just be careful not to cook it too long, or it may curdle. If your gnocchi does not float, don’t worry. It may need a little more time. Keep checking every minute or so until it rises. Cook time usually ranges from two to three minutes. When choosing gnocchi, homemade offers a fresh taste. Store-bought is quick and easy. Both can work well in this recipe. If you want to try making your own, look for simple potato gnocchi recipes online. For a tasty twist, add fresh spinach or sautéed mushrooms to the sauce. These add flavor and nutrients. You can also mix in sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor. If you enjoy spiciness, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Italian seasoning already adds a nice touch. Feel free to experiment with herbs like thyme or oregano. Each will change the dish's flavor profile. Pro Tips Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides a more intense flavor compared to pre-minced or jarred options, enhancing the overall taste of the dish. Choose Quality Parmesan: Opt for freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-packaged to achieve a creamier texture and richer flavor in your sauce. Adjust Sauce Consistency: If your sauce becomes too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water to loosen it up without compromising the creaminess. Garnish for Color: Adding freshly chopped parsley not only brightens the dish visually but also adds a fresh flavor contrast to the creamy sauce. {{image_2}} You can make creamy garlic parmesan gnocchi even better with veggies. Try adding spinach, mushrooms, or peas. These will add color and taste. You can also use a mix of roasted vegetables. They will give the dish a nice crunch. If you want cheese alternatives, use a blend of goat cheese or ricotta for a creamy texture. This keeps your dish rich while catering to different tastes. Want to boost the protein? Add chicken or shrimp to your gnocchi. Cook the protein in the same skillet after sautéing the garlic. This adds great flavor to the sauce. Season the chicken or shrimp with salt and pepper. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. This helps balance the creamy sauce. If you need gluten-free options, look for gluten-free gnocchi. Many brands offer this, and they taste great. For a vegan version, use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream. These options keep the dish creamy without dairy. Always check the labels to ensure they fit your dietary needs. To keep your creamy garlic parmesan gnocchi fresh, follow these simple steps: - Place leftovers in an airtight container. - Let the dish cool down to room temperature first. - Store it in the fridge. When stored properly, the gnocchi can last up to three days in the fridge. Make sure to check for any signs of spoilage before enjoying it again. To reheat your gnocchi without losing texture, consider these methods: - Use a skillet on medium heat. Add a splash of water or cream to keep it moist. - Stir gently as it warms up to avoid breaking the gnocchi. - You can also use the microwave. Place the gnocchi in a microwave-safe bowl with a bit of water. Cover it and heat in short bursts, stirring in between. For the best results, aim for about 3-5 minutes in the skillet or 2-4 minutes in the microwave. Always check that it’s heated through before serving. The best way to cook gnocchi is by using a stovetop. Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the gnocchi and cook them for about 2-3 minutes. They are done when they float to the top. Baking gnocchi is another option, but it can dry them out. Stovetop cooking keeps them soft and fluffy. Yes, you can freeze creamy garlic parmesan gnocchi. It’s best to freeze gnocchi before cooking. If you have leftovers, allow them to cool first. Place them in an airtight container. They last about 2-3 months in the freezer. You can refrigerate cooked gnocchi for 3-4 days, but freezing keeps them fresh longer. Gnocchi is done cooking when it floats to the top of the water. This usually takes 2-3 minutes. You can also test one by tasting it. It should be soft but firm. Avoid overcooking, as they can become mushy. Keep a close eye on them while cooking. In this post, we explored how to make creamy garlic parmesan gnocchi. We covered the main ingredients, the step-by-step process, and tips for perfect results. You learned how to enhance flavors and create variations for different diets. Storing and reheating tips ensure you can enjoy leftovers too. Remember, cooking is about joy and creativity. Experiment with flavors and make it your own. Enjoy your delicious gnocchi!$