Name: Creamy Buttery Tuscan Gnocchi Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons butter (or olive oil); 1 brown shallot, chopped (or 1 small onion); 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 pound uncooked potato gnocchi (dry packaged, not fresh); 1/2 cup sun dried tomato strips in oil (jarred, reserve 2 teaspoons of the jarred oil for cooking); 2 tablespoons oil from the sun-dried tomatoes jar; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1 1/4 cups heavy cream (thickened cream or half and half); 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs; 1 pinch salt (to taste); 1 pinch pepper (to taste); 1 1/2 cups fresh baby spinach; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated; 2 tablespoons fresh chopped basil (or parsley)

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 14 reviews

The Creamy Buttery Tuscan Gnocchi Recipe is an absolute game changer for easy weeknight dinners or impressing friends with minimal fuss. Imagine pillowy soft potato gnocchi bathed in a rich, buttery cream sauce infused with sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and fragrant Italian herbs. Each bite bursts with luscious flavors and textures that feel luxurious yet comforting. This dish is one of those special finds that’s quick to prepare but delivers a vibrant medley of tastes you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A black pan filled with soft gnocchi as the base layer, pale yellow in color with a smooth, slightly shiny texture. Scattered over the gnocchi are irregular pieces of sun-dried tomatoes, dark red with a wrinkled texture, adding contrast. Creamy white sauce is being poured in the center over the gnocchi and tomatoes, creating a smooth flowing layer that spreads softly across the surface. The pan sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this Creamy Buttery Tuscan Gnocchi Recipe plays a crucial role, whether it’s adding richness, brightness, or texture. The combination of simple staples and fresh elements comes together beautifully to create a deeply satisfying dish.

Butter (2 tablespoons): Provides a luscious, creamy base with a rich buttery flavor that wraps the gnocchi in decadence.
Brown shallot (1, chopped): Adds gentle sweetness and depth without overpowering the other ingredients.
Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Infuses the sauce with aromatic warmth that enhances every bite.
Uncooked potato gnocchi (1 pound): The star ingredient offering a pillowy texture that soaks up the sauce perfectly.
Sun-dried tomato strips in oil (1/2 cup): Brings concentrated sweetness and a touch of tang, complementing the creamy sauce.
Reserved sun-dried tomato oil (2 tablespoons): Intensifies flavor, elevating the overall richness and adding depth.
Chicken broth (1/2 cup): Adds savory notes and balances the cream’s richness with a subtle earthiness.
Heavy cream (1 1/4 cups): Creates the silky, thick sauce that coats every gnocchi with a dreamy texture.
Dried Italian herbs (1 teaspoon): Infuses the dish with classic Mediterranean aromatics that tie all flavors together.
Salt and pepper (pinch each): Enhances and balances every layer of flavor.
Fresh baby spinach (1 1/2 cups): Adds vibrant color and a light, fresh contrast to the richness.
Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, freshly grated): Delivers sharp, nutty undertones that melt seamlessly into the creamy sauce.
Fresh chopped basil (2 tablespoons): Offers a fragrant, herbal brightness as the final finishing touch.

How to Make Creamy Buttery Tuscan Gnocchi Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Shallots and Garlic

Start by heating your skillet over medium-high heat and melting the butter until it’s sizzling gently. Toss in the chopped shallots and cook until they turn translucent and soft, which takes about 2 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until their fragrant aroma fills your kitchen. This build of flavors is the perfect foundation for the sauce.

Step 2: Sear the Gnocchi and Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Next, add the uncooked potato gnocchi directly to the pan and let them sear for about a minute. This gives the gnocchi a slight golden crust, adding a delightful texture contrast. Stir in the sun-dried tomato strips along with the reserved oil from the jar. This step unlocks the intense tomato flavor, infusing the gnocchi in that delicious buttery sauce.

Step 3: Build the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, then sprinkle the dried Italian herbs evenly over the mixture. Use a wooden spoon to gently scrape any browned bits off the pan’s bottom — this deepens the flavor. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Season and Simmer

Add salt and pepper to your liking, then cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to medium. Let everything cook together for 5 minutes so the gnocchi soften fully and soak up that luscious sauce. This is where the magic happens as all flavors marry perfectly.

Step 5: Add Fresh Spinach

Remove the lid, stir in the fresh baby spinach to the hot skillet, and cook just until it wilts—about 1 minute. Spinach not only adds beautiful green color but also a fresh, slightly earthy flavor that balances the richness wonderfully.

Step 6: Finish with Parmesan and Basil

Stir through the freshly grated Parmesan and chopped basil leaves. Let the sauce simmer a little longer until it thickens and the gnocchi are delectably soft and ridiculously tender. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Step 7: Serve Immediately

Your Creamy Buttery Tuscan Gnocchi Recipe is ready to enjoy. Serve it hot right from the pan while the sauce is beautifully velvety and the aromas are irresistible.

How to Serve Creamy Buttery Tuscan Gnocchi Recipe

The dish shows several pale yellow gnocchi pieces covered with a smooth, creamy white sauce mixed with small shredded bits of white cheese on top. Scattered among the gnocchi are pieces of sun-dried tomatoes with a crinkled, deep orange-red color and fresh, dark green spinach leaves adding a sharp contrast. Tiny bits of chopped green herbs are dotted over the dish, and fine black pepper specks lightly spread across the surface. The background is a white marbled texture, focusing tightly on the rich texture of the creamy sauce and fresh ingredients. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese or a few fresh basil leaves on top instantly elevates the presentation and taste. A light drizzle of good quality olive oil also highlights the dish’s rich textures. For a subtle kick, add a pinch of chili flakes or cracked black pepper right before serving.

Side Dishes

This gnocchi pairs fantastically with crisp green salads—think arugula with lemon vinaigrette—to provide a refreshing contrast. Roasted vegetables like asparagus, cherry tomatoes, or broccoli work beautifully as well, bringing vibrant color and natural sweetness alongside the creamy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, serve the Creamy Buttery Tuscan Gnocchi Recipe in shallow white bowls to showcase the gorgeous colors. Garnish each portion with edible flowers or microgreens for an elegant touch. You can also scoop it into small ramekins and broil briefly with extra Parmesan for a bubbly, golden crust finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This dish keeps well refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Because the sauce thickens once chilled, simply stir in a splash of cream or broth when reheating to revive its creamy texture perfectly.

Freezing

While gnocchi can be frozen, the cream sauce is best enjoyed fresh. If you want to freeze leftovers, store gnocchi and sauce separately when possible. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm gently on the stove with a little added cream or broth before serving.

Reheating

Reheat your Creamy Buttery Tuscan Gnocchi Recipe on the stovetop over low-medium heat. Stir frequently and add a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwave reheating if you want to preserve the best texture and flavor, but it can work in a pinch.

FAQs

Can I use fresh gnocchi instead of packaged?

Absolutely! Fresh gnocchi works wonderfully but will cook faster, so reduce the searing time and simmer accordingly. Just keep an eye on them so they don’t overcook and become mushy.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Yes, simply swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and use olive oil instead of butter for a fully vegetarian Creamy Buttery Tuscan Gnocchi Recipe that’s just as flavorful and indulgent.

Can I substitute heavy cream?

If you want a lighter option, half and half or thickened cream can be used. Just be aware the sauce may be a bit less thick and rich but will still be delicious.

What can I do if the sauce is too thick?

Add a splash of warm chicken broth, cream, or even reserved pasta cooking water to gently thin it out without losing that creamy consistency.

How spicy is this dish?

This recipe is mild by default, focusing on rich and savory flavors. If you love spice, adding a pinch of chili flakes during the garlic sauté amps up the heat beautifully.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about a recipe that feels both indulgent and effortless, and this Creamy Buttery Tuscan Gnocchi Recipe fits that perfectly. Packed with fresh flavors and a silky sauce, it’s one of those dishes you’ll look forward to coming home to or sharing with loved ones. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite comfort meal.