Creamy Parmesan Spinach Gnocchi

A very creamy gnocchi with a hint of nutmeg paired with fresh baby spinach and seasoned with fresh Parmesan cheese. This is a fantastic vegetarian meal, especially when you are craving something rich and flavorful.

What is gnocchi?

Gnocchi are soft dumplings that are typically made from potato, flour, egg, and salt. You can make them yourself if you’d like to but they are also available in the pasta section of most grocery stores.

Why This Recipe Works

When you’re looking for a quick and easy meal, this is the one to try. With minimal ingredients and low cooking time, you can prep and have this meal on the table in no time.

This meal is also a great alternative for healthy eating. Trying to find yummy vegetarian recipes with a good taste can be tough, but this creamy gnocchi recipe will be loved by all.

How to Make Creamy Parmesan Spinach Gnocchi

Ingredients:

• Olive oil helps the onion brown without burning. Feel free to use your favorite neutral cooking oil. 
• Onion adds an earthy flavor to the sauce that is delicious with spinach and parmesan. 
• Garlic is a key ingredient in this recipe! I like to use two very large cloves– about 1 tablespoon minced total. But feel free to add a little extra if you’d like. 
• Fresh thyme adds a subtle earthiness that enhances the flavor of the spinach and lemon. Fresh herbs really make a difference– don’t skip them! 
• Butter and flour create a roux that thickens the cream sauce. I’m using unsalted butter and all purpose flour. 
• Milk is the base of our sauce– it will thicken with the roux and form a deliciously smooth and creamy sauce. I highly recommend whole milk, although 2% will work too. 
• Ground nutmeg is a classic gratin spice and it is delicious with parmesan and spinach. If you have fresh nutmeg, it’s always preferred!  
• Parmesan adds a nutty saltiness to the cream sauce– feel free to switch up which cheese you use. Fontina, gruyere, or pecorino would all be delicious. 
• Fresh spinach has such a sweet grassy flavor and it is delicious with parmesan and gnocchi. 4 ounces may look like a lot, but trust me– it wilts down! 
• Lemon juice adds an unexpected freshness to brighten up the rich cream sauce. 

Directions:

Saute the onion olive oil until transluscent. Add salt, pepper, and garlic, cooking for about a minute more. Add butter into the pan and cook until melted. Then add flour and stir completely, cooking for about one minute.

Slowly add mix, stirring constantly stirring. If there are large lumps, whisk them until smooth. Bring the sauce to a bubble and simmer until it thickens.

Add the remaining ingredients (except gnocchi and spinach), stirring until completely combined. Season with salt and pepper, then check for thickness. If it’s too thick, simply add more milk.

Now add the gnocchi and spinach and cook over low heat until warmed throughout. Serve immediately with shavings of Parmesan cheese on top.

LOOKING FOR MORE EASY COMFORTING DINNER IDEAS?

• Rigatoni with Sun Dried Tomato Sauce – unlike any rigatoni you’ve had before
• Fettuccini Alfredo – just pure classic comfort food!
• Cheeseburger Macaroni Skillet – homemade version of Hamburger Helper
• Penne Ala Vodka – another true classic

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