Creamy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta
Sometimes, you just need a comforting meal that comes together in a flash, and Creamy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta is a perfect candidate. With its creamy sauce and the unique blend of flavors from the fresh spinach and salty feta, this dish has become a staple in my kitchen. Whether you’re having a hectic weeknight or hosting a casual family dinner, this recipe delivers satisfaction and warmth in every bite.
Eating at home doesn’t mean compromising on flavor or presentation. This creamy gnocchi dish brings restaurant-quality comfort food to your table without a heavy price tag or endless hours in the kitchen. It’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings when you want something delicious and homemade. Plus, kids and adults alike love it, making it a hit for family meals.
"This creamy gnocchi dish is a game-changer! It’s so quick and easy, yet feels fancy enough for a special occasion. The spinach adds a lovely color and flavor, and my kids can’t get enough of it!"
Making this dish is as simple as it is rewarding. You’ll start by preparing the gnocchi, which will become the base of your meal. While the gnocchi is cooking, you’ll whip up a sauce in a skillet, incorporating earthy garlic and fresh spinach, before blending it all together with crumbled feta and rich heavy cream. Follow the steps below to create a dish that’s creamy, comforting, and unbelievably tasty.
What you’ll need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step towards success. For this creamy gnocchi recipe, you’ll need the following:
- 1 package of gnocchi
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)
Feel free to customize your dish; for instance, substituting Greek yogurt for the cream can lighten it up while still retaining creaminess, or swapping out spinach for kale or arugula offers a new twist.
Cooking steps
With your ingredients ready, let’s bring this dish to life in a few easy steps:
- Cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions. Once done, drain it and set it aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for one minute until fragrant.
- Toss in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
- Pour the heavy cream into the skillet, stirring well. Add the crumbled feta, allowing it to melt into the sauce seamlessly.
- Gently fold the cooked gnocchi back into the skillet, ensuring everything combines beautifully.
- Season the dish with salt and pepper to your liking.
- Serve immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan if desired for an extra touch.
How to plate and pair
For an eye-catching presentation, serve your creamy gnocchi in shallow bowls, drizzling any extra sauce on top. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of black pepper. Pair this dish with a light, crisp salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness. A chilled glass of white wine or a sparkling water would beautifully complement the flavors.
Keeping leftovers fresh
If you find yourself with any leftovers, you can easily store them! Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring gently to maintain the creaminess.
Helpful cooking tips
To elevate your creamy gnocchi, consider using homemade or artisanal gnocchi if available; the texture and flavor are often superior. Additionally, fresh herbs like basil or dill can infuse a fragrant note that harmonizes with the cream and feta.
Creative twists
Want to mix it up? You could introduce sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of sweetness or add grilled chicken for protein. For a vegan version, explore plant-based feta and cream alternatives along with a substitution for the gnocchi.
Common questions
-
How long does this take to prepare?
This dish can be cooked and served in about 25-30 minutes, making it an excellent option for a quick weeknight meal. -
Can I freeze the leftovers?
While it’s not ideal because cream-based sauces may separate, you can freeze it. Just reheat slowly on the stovetop for the best results after thawing. -
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a blend of Greek yogurt with a bit of milk to maintain creaminess without the extra fat.
This Creamy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a quick and nourishing meal at home. With just a handful of ingredients, you can impress your family or savor a quiet meal alone. Enjoy!
Creamy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 package gnocchi
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional) Use for an extra touch
Instructions
Cooking
- Cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions. Once done, drain it and set it aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for one minute until fragrant.
- Toss in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
- Pour the heavy cream into the skillet, stirring well. Add the crumbled feta, allowing it to melt into the sauce seamlessly.
- Gently fold the cooked gnocchi back into the skillet, ensuring everything combines beautifully.
- Season the dish with salt and pepper to your liking.
- Serve immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan if desired for an extra touch.
