One Pot Creamy Garlic and Spinach Gnocchi

Name: One Pot Creamy Garlic and Spinach Gnocchi
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 4 cups fresh spinach; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Red pepper flakes (optional)

Highlighted under: Feel-Good Food Ideas

I love making One Pot Creamy Garlic and Spinach Gnocchi because it's effortless yet incredibly satisfying. The combination of tender gnocchi, fresh spinach, and a creamy garlic sauce makes for a delightful dish that is ready in no time. With just a few ingredients and one pot, this meal is perfect for busy weeknights when I want something comforting without the fuss of a lengthy cleanup. Plus, the flavors meld beautifully, making each bite a creamy, garlicky delight!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-16T15:14:20.429Z

When I first tried to create a one-pot dish, I was thrilled by how much flavor I could pack into a single pan. This recipe for creamy garlic and spinach gnocchi is a testament to that idea. The creamy sauce not only coats the gnocchi beautifully but also acts as a vehicle for the garlic and spinach, making every bite a mouthful of flavor!

One of my top tips for this recipe is to add the spinach towards the end of the cooking process. This way, it retains some of its vibrant color and texture, brightening the dish with freshness. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some greens without overwhelming the dish. Enjoy this delicious balance of creaminess and nutrition!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy garlic sauce pairs perfectly with soft, pillowy gnocchi.
Quick and easy preparation, ideal for weeknight dinners.
One pot means minimal cleanup, leaving you more time to relax.

The Role of Gnocchi

Choosing high-quality gnocchi is key to the success of this dish. Fresh gnocchi typically has a soft, pillowy texture that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce. If you're using shelf-stable or frozen gnocchi, be sure to check the cooking time on the package, as this can vary significantly and may require adjustments in the overall cooking process to ensure a perfect bite.

The cooking method is equally important; adding the gnocchi to simmering broth helps them cook evenly while absorbing flavor. Watch for the telltale sign of doneness—when they float to the surface, you're just a few moments away from a delicious meal!

Enhancing the Creamy Garlic Sauce

The heavy cream gives the sauce its rich flavor and silky texture. If you want a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or even unsweetened almond milk for a dairy-free option. However, keep in mind that substitutions may alter the final creaminess and richness of the dish, so choose based on your dietary needs and flavor preferences.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine after sautéing the garlic. Let it simmer for a minute to reduce before adding the vegetable broth. This small addition can elevate your cream sauce, making it feel even more luxurious while enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for your One Pot Creamy Garlic and Spinach Gnocchi:

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 package (16 oz) gnocchi
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
4 cups fresh spinach
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Red pepper flakes (optional)

With your ingredients prepared, you're ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious One Pot Creamy Garlic and Spinach Gnocchi:

Sauté Garlic

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Cook Gnocchi

Add the gnocchi and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir well and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes or until the gnocchi float to the surface.

Add Cream and Spinach

Stir in the heavy cream and then add the fresh spinach. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the sauce thickens slightly.

Finish and Serve

Remove from heat, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your meal!

Once you follow these steps, you'll have a delicious and creamy pasta dish that’s hearty and satisfying!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or cooked chicken to the dish. These additions complement the garlic and creamy sauce beautifully!

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, this dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, because gnocchi can absorb moisture over time, you may notice the sauce thickening. To remedy this when reheating, simply add a splash of vegetable broth or cream to reintroduce that creamy consistency before warming it gently on the stovetop.

For longer storage, this creamy gnocchi can be frozen. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for about three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, and remember that textures might slightly change after freezing, but the delicious flavor will remain.

Serving Suggestions

This One Pot Creamy Garlic and Spinach Gnocchi can be served as a filling main dish or accompanied by a simple side salad for a lighter meal. Pairing with a fresh, crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette can bring a refreshing contrast to the richness of the gnocchi, making for a balanced dinner.

Feel free to jazz up the dish with additional toppings before serving. Chopped fresh herbs like basil or parsley can add a burst of freshness, while a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts offers a nice crunch. If you enjoy heat, a dash of chili oil drizzled on top just before serving can elevate the dish even further!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?

Yes, frozen gnocchi works perfectly! Just add an extra minute or two to the cooking time.

→ Can I substitute heavy cream with a lighter option?

You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative, but keep in mind it may affect the creaminess.

→ Is this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! All ingredients are vegetarian-friendly, making it a delicious option for those who follow a vegetarian diet.

→ What can I add for more protein?

You can easily add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for an added protein boost.