Creamy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta

Imagine a dinner that feels incredibly gourmet, yet comes together in a flash. This Creamy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta recipe delivers just that – a velvety sauce, tender potato gnocchi, and the bright, tangy notes of spinach and feta, creating a truly irresistible meal.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta

This delightful dish is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Here’s why it’s destined to become a staple in your kitchen:

• Effortlessly Elegant: Impress guests or treat yourself to a restaurant-quality meal without the fuss.
• Ready in Minutes: From pantry to plate in under 20 minutes, perfect for those busy weeknights.
• Irresistibly Creamy: A luscious, rich sauce coats every tender pillow of gnocchi.
• Bursting with Flavor: The tangy feta and fresh spinach perfectly balance the creamy richness and garlicky notes.
• Vegetarian Delight: A hearty and satisfying vegetarian option that even meat-lovers will adore.
• Comfort Food Supreme: Pure indulgence in every single bite, offering warmth and satisfaction.

Ingredients Needed for Creamy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to culinary bliss. Quality makes all the difference in this simple yet profound dish.

• 1 package (500g) potato gnocchi: Choose a good quality, shelf-stable or refrigerated gnocchi for best results.
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream: Essential for that luxurious, thick sauce.
• 2 cups (60g) fresh spinach leaves: Look for vibrant, crisp leaves.
• 1/2 cup (75g) crumbled feta cheese: The star for its salty, tangy punch.
• 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps sauté the garlic beautifully.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Freshly minced garlic provides the best aroma and flavor.
• 1/4 cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese: For an extra layer of savory depth.
• 1/4 teaspoon (1g) black pepper: Freshly ground always tastes better.
• 1/4 teaspoon (1g) salt: Adjust to your preference, especially with salty feta.

YOU MIGHT LOVE: Chickpea Spinach Feta Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette – A vibrant and refreshing salad featuring two key ingredients from this gnocchi dish!

Essential Equipment

You don’t need a gourmet kitchen to create this masterpiece. Just a few key tools will do the trick!

• • Large Pot: For perfectly boiling your gnocchi.
  • Large Skillet: The workhorse for creating that creamy, dreamy sauce. A non-stick skillet is ideal to prevent sticking.
  • Colander: For draining the gnocchi efficiently.

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• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring and gently tossing the gnocchi.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
• Total Time: 15-20 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty: Easy

Step-by-Step Instructions for Your Creamy Gnocchi

1. Prepare the GnocchiBring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Carefully add the potato gnocchi and cook according to package instructions until they gracefully float to the surface, typically about 2-3 minutes. Promptly drain the tender gnocchi and set it aside.

2. Sauté the GarlicMeanwhile, in a spacious skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the finely minced garlic and sauté for just 1 minute until it releases its delightful fragrance, being careful not to brown it too much.

3. Craft the Creamy SaucePour in the heavy cream and gently bring it to a simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce begins to visibly thicken. If it appears too thin, continue simmering for another minute or two; if too thick, a splash of milk can thin it slightly.

4. Combine and TossAdd the cooked gnocchi to the skillet with the simmering cream. Gently toss to ensure every pillowy piece is generously coated in the rich, creamy sauce.

5. Wilt the SpinachStir in the fresh spinach leaves. Cook for just 1-2 minutes, tossing continuously, until the vibrant greens beautifully wilt into the sauce.

6. Finish with CheeseRemove the skillet from the heat. Gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese. The residual heat will melt them into gooey perfection.

7. Season and ServeSeason the gnocchi with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember, feta is salty, so taste before adding more. Serve this incredible dish immediately to enjoy its warmth and creamy texture.

CHECK OUT: One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie – For another incredibly easy and comforting gnocchi recipe perfect for a weeknight dinner!

Tips for Success

Achieve gnocchi perfection every time with these expert tips:

• • Don’t Overcook Gnocchi: They cook very quickly. Once they float, they’re ready! Overcooked gnocchi can become mushy.

• Fresh Garlic is Key: While garlic powder works in a pinch, fresh minced garlic elevates the flavor immensely.
• Adjust Seasoning: Feta is quite salty. Taste your sauce before adding extra salt at the end.
• Warm Serving Dishes: A warmed bowl keeps your gnocchi cozy and delicious for longer.
• Optional Nutmeg: A tiny pinch of freshly grated nutmeg can enhance the cream sauce’s flavor beautifully.

Variations & Substitutions

This Creamy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta is wonderfully versatile!

• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic for a subtle kick.
• Add Protein: Sautéed chicken or shrimp would be excellent additions.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use a plant-based heavy cream alternative and dairy-free feta and Parmesan.
• Extra Veggies: Cherry tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, or even mushrooms would be delicious stirred in.
• Herbaceous Twist: Fresh basil or dill folded in at the end would add a lovely aromatic touch.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty spinach and feta gnocchi can stand alone, but it also pairs beautifully with simple accompaniments.

• Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up every last drop of that creamy sauce.
• Simple Side Salad: A light, crisp green salad with a vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast.
• Roasted Vegetables: Asparagus or broccoli make excellent companions.
• Non-Alcoholic Drink: A sparkling lemonade or a light fruit-infused water would complement the meal.

Health Benefits

Beyond its delicious taste, this Creamy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta offers some great nutritional benefits:

• Protein Power: With 18g of protein per serving, it helps keep you feeling full and satisfied.
• Fiber Rich: The spinach contributes 5g of fiber, supporting digestive health.
• Vitamins & Minerals: Spinach is packed with Vitamin K and Vitamin A, while feta provides calcium.
• Energy Boost: The carbohydrates from the gnocchi provide sustained energy.

Nutrition per serving: Calories: 450, Protein: 18g, Carbohydrates: 55g, Fat: 20g, Fiber: 5g, Sodium: 600mg.

Storage & Reheating

Want to enjoy your creamy gnocchi leftovers? Here’s how:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover gnocchi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
• Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low-medium heat, adding a splash of milk or vegetable broth to loosen the sauce and restore its creamy texture. Avoid high heat, as it can cause the sauce to separate.
• Freezing: Freezing is not recommended for this dish as the texture of the gnocchi and the cream sauce can change significantly upon thawing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta

Is gnocchi pasta or a dumpling?

Gnocchi are traditionally Italian dumplings, often made from potato, semolina, or flour, and are served much like pasta.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with a plant-based cream alternative (like cashew or oat cream) and use dairy-free feta and Parmesan.

What if my gnocchi stick together when cooking?

Ensure your pot is large enough, the water is at a rolling boil, and you don’t overcrowd the pot. Cook in batches if necessary.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Thinly sliced zucchini, bell peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes would all be wonderful additions.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated within 2-3 days, noting a slight texture change.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

Simmer the heavy cream for an extra minute or two before adding the gnocchi. A tiny bit of cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tsp cold water) can also be added while simmering, but usually isn’t necessary.

What kind of gnocchi should I use?

Any store-bought potato gnocchi will work. Fresh, refrigerated gnocchi often have a slightly softer texture than shelf-stable varieties.

More Delicious Dishes

If you loved this comforting gnocchi with spinach and feta, you’ll surely enjoy these other delightful recipes:

• Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage Recipe – Another fantastic gnocchi dish featuring a rich, seasonal squash sauce.
• Easy Parmesan Chicken Pasta – A simple, creamy, and cheesy pasta dish that’s perfect for any night.
• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Casserole – Pure comfort food with all the creamy, cheesy flavors you adore.

Conclusion

This Creamy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta is a testament to how simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavor. It’s quick, satisfying, and utterly delicious, proving that gourmet meals are within everyone’s reach. Enjoy every spoonful! Follow us on Facebook and Pinterest for more culinary inspiration.

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