Name: Millionaire Gnocchi with Creamy Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound gnocchi (store-bought or homemade); 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; ½ cup fresh basil, chopped; Salt to taste; Black pepper to taste; Crushed red pepper flakes (optional); Fresh basil leaves for garnish

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Introduction

Millionaire Gnocchi with Creamy Sauce is a luxurious yet simple dish that elevates classic gnocchi with a rich, cheesy cream sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner or impressing guests, this recipe brings comfort and elegance to your table with minimal effort.

The dish shows golden-brown gnocchi pieces, each with a crispy, seared surface, sitting on a creamy white sauce mixed with green leafy herbs. The gnocchi are round and plump, arranged closely in a white bowl. On top, there is a light sprinkle of grated cheese and a fresh sprig of rosemary placed in the center, adding a touch of green and texture. The creamy sauce under the gnocchi is smooth with bits of herbs visible, blending nicely with the browned edges of the gnocchi. The background shows a soft white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup fresh basil, chopped
Salt and black pepper to taste
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: In a large pot of salted boiling water, add the gnocchi and cook according to the package instructions until they float to the surface.
Step 2: While the gnocchi cooks, heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Pour the heavy cream into the skillet with the garlic and stir to combine. Let the mixture simmer gently for 3-4 minutes.
Step 4: Slowly whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
Step 5: Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using, adjusting to taste.
Step 6: Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked gnocchi directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat each piece evenly.
Step 7: Stir in the chopped fresh basil until well distributed.
Step 8: Reduce the heat and let the gnocchi simmer in the sauce for 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors.
Step 9: Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves.

Tips & Variations

Salt the boiling water generously before cooking gnocchi to enhance flavor.
Try substituting Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or a vegan cheese for different tastes.
Add sautéed spinach or roasted cherry tomatoes to boost nutrition and color.
For a spicy kick, increase crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
Squeeze fresh lemon juice just before serving to brighten the flavors.
Include sautéed mushrooms or grilled protein like chicken or shrimp for added depth.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, pack gnocchi and sauce separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove to maintain creamy texture.

How to Serve

The image shows a white bowl filled with golden-brown seared gnocchi, sitting on a creamy white sauce with green vegetable pieces stirred in. The gnocchi pieces have a soft, slightly browned texture on top and are sprinkled with finely grated cheese, adding a slightly grainy texture on the surface. On top of the gnocchi, there is a fresh dark green sprig of rosemary placed in the middle, providing a contrast in color and a fresh, natural look. The dish looks rich and inviting with warm tones and fresh herbs, set against a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen gnocchi instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen gnocchi works great. Cook according to package instructions; they will still become fluffy and delicious.

Can this recipe be doubled for a larger crowd?

Absolutely. Simply double the ingredients and use larger cookware to accommodate the increased amount.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Traditional gnocchi contains wheat flour. For a gluten-free version, use store-bought gluten-free gnocchi options.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the creamy sauce can be prepared in advance and gently reheated on the stove while cooking the gnocchi.

What can I use if I don’t have heavy cream?

Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cornstarch to achieve a lighter sauce that still thickens nicely.