After a whirlwind week of takeout and busy schedules, I found myself yearning for a comforting homemade meal that wouldn’t take hours to prepare. That’s when I discovered the delightful world of Creamy Sundried Tomato “Marry Me” Gnocchi! Imagine biting into crispy gnocchi, perfectly enveloped in a luxurious, creamy sauce that bursts with the tangy flavor of sundried tomatoes, all ready in just 30 minutes. This dish is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a heartwarming comfort food that brings elegance to any table. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner or simply craving something satisfying on a weeknight, this versatile vegetarian meal invites everyone to gather around. Let’s dive into this indulgent yet easy recipe that could just be the answer to your dinnertime dilemmas!
Why will you love Creamy Sundried Tomato “Marry Me” Gnocchi?
Quick and Easy: Whipping up this dish takes only 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.
Comforting Delight: The crispy gnocchi create a satisfying texture, complemented by a rich and creamy sauce that tastes like a gourmet meal!
Flavor Explosion: With sundried tomatoes, garlic, and fresh herbs, this dish is packed with flavor and deliciousness in every bite.
Vegetarian Bliss: This recipe shines as a meatless option while still delivering on taste, making it a win for everyone at the table.
Versatile Twist: Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or protein-rich add-ins like chickpeas, avoiding meal rut!
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether for date night or family dinner, this dish invites compliments and happy plates all around.
Ingredients for Creamy Sundried Tomato “Marry Me” Gnocchi
For the Gnocchi
• Gnocchi – Provides a hearty and chewy texture; or substitute with another short pasta shape if desired.
For the Sauce
• Red Onion – Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed; can be replaced with shallots or yellow onion.
• Garlic – Enhances the dish with aromatic qualities; fresh garlic yields the best flavor.
• Red Pepper Flakes – Introduces heat and a slight kick; adjust to taste or use fresh chili if preferred.
• Mixed Italian Seasoning – Delivers a classic herbal flavor profile; substitute with dried basil, oregano, and thyme.
• Sundried Tomatoes – Provides rich, tangy flavor and texture; choose oil-packed for moisture.
• Tomato Paste – Intensifies tomato flavor and thickens the sauce; no direct substitute recommended.
• Vegetable Broth – Used as the sauce base; chicken broth can enhance flavor if not strictly vegetarian.
• Heavy Cream – Creates a luxurious, creamy texture; substitute with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative if desired.
• Parmesan Style Cheese – Adds nuttiness and creaminess when melted; a good non-dairy cheese can work as an alternative.
• Basil – Fresh herb that finishes the dish with vibrant flavor; parsley can be used for a different herbal note.
• Baby Spinach – Adds a nutritional boost and color; kale or other leafy greens can be substituted.
Enjoy creating this comforting and flavorful recipe!
How to Make Creamy Sundried Tomato “Marry Me” Gnocchi
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Sauté Aromatics: In a deep saucepan, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add diced red onion and sauté until soft and translucent, around 3-4 minutes. Toss in minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute more.
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Prepare Sauce: Stir in chopped sundried tomatoes and the mixed Italian seasoning. Add the tomato paste, cooking for a few minutes to deepen the flavors. Pour in the vegetable broth and let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes.
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Crisp Gnocchi: In a separate skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Fry the gnocchi for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until they are crispy and golden brown on the outside.
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Finish Sauce: Lower the heat of the sauce and gently stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan-style cheese until melted and creamy. Add in baby spinach and fresh basil, stirring until just wilted—this should only take a minute.
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Combine and Serve: Toss the golden gnocchi into the creamy sauce, ensuring they are well coated. Plate your dish and serve immediately, garnished with more fresh basil if desired.
Optional: A sprinkle of crushed red pepper can add extra heat if you like a kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Creamy Sundried Tomato “Marry Me” Gnocchi?
Looking to create a wholesome and satisfying meal experience? Let’s explore delightful pairings that enhance this creamy, comforting dish.
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Garlic Bread: A warm, buttery slice adds a delightful crunch and complements the creamy sauce perfectly. Ideal for sopping up every last bit of deliciousness!
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Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad, drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette, balances the richness of the gnocchi. Toss in cherry tomatoes and cucumber for extra freshness and color.
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Roasted Asparagus: The earthy flavor of roasted asparagus adds a lovely contrast. Tossed in olive oil and garlic, it’s a simple yet elegant addition to your plate.
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Zucchini Noodles: Light and refreshing, zucchini noodles can serve as a wonderful, low-carb filler alongside the gnocchi. They absorb the flavors of the creamy sauce beautifully.
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Bruschetta: This classic Italian appetizer brings in the fresh flavors of diced tomatoes and basil, making it a wonderful starter to whet the appetite for your main dish.
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Red Wine: A glass of light red wine, such as Pinot Noir, can elevate your dining experience, complementing the sundried tomatoes and creaminess with its subtle fruit notes.
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Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, a refreshing lemon sorbet cleanses the palate and rounds off the meal perfectly with a zesty finish that contrasts beautifully with your creamy main course.
These pairings will not only complement your Creamy Sundried Tomato “Marry Me” Gnocchi but also create a delightful full-course experience that everyone will enjoy!
Storage Tips for Creamy Sundried Tomato “Marry Me” Gnocchi
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Gently reheat to maintain the creamy texture without curdling.
Freezer: Freeze the creamy sauce separately from the cooked gnocchi for best results. It can last up to 2 months in an airtight container.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the sauce in the fridge overnight, then reheat gently on the stove. Pan-fry the gnocchi to restore their crispiness before combining.
Room Temperature: If serving immediately, keep the dish at room temperature for up to 2 hours. After that, refrigerate any leftovers promptly.
Expert Tips for Creamy Sundried Tomato “Marry Me” Gnocchi
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Perfect Crispiness: Cook the gnocchi on medium heat for that crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft. Avoid high heat, which can lead to burning.
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Use Sundried Tomato Oil: Enhance the gnocchi’s flavor by frying them in the oil from your sundried tomatoes. It adds a delicious richness to the dish.
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Gentle Sauce Heat: Once you add cream and cheese to the sauce, reduce the heat to low. Boiling can cause the cream to curdle, ruining your creamy sauce.
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Taste as You Go: Adjust the heat from red pepper flakes according to your preference. Start with a little and increase it gradually to suit your taste.
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Customize with Veggies: Don’t hesitate to add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. They’ll boost the nutritional value and add delightful textures to this vegetarian meal.
Enjoy making your Creamy Sundried Tomato “Marry Me” Gnocchi perfect every time!
Variations & Substitutions for Creamy Sundried Tomato “Marry Me” Gnocchi
Feel free to get creative with this delightful dish and make it your own!
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Vegetable Boost: Add bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to amp up the nutritional profile and add vibrant color to your plate.
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Cauliflower Gnocchi: Swap regular gnocchi for cauliflower gnocchi for a lower-carb option that still delivers on flavor and satisfaction.
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Protein-Packed: Toss in cooked chickpeas or white beans alongside the spinach for a hearty dose of protein that brings the dish to a new level. It’s a beautiful balance of texture and nourishment.
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Creamy Alternative: If you’re looking for a lighter version, use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream like cashew or almond to create that luxurious texture without the heaviness.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or oregano for a fragrant twist that complements the sundried tomatoes perfectly.
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Nutty Flavor: Add a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that enhances the creamy sauce beautifully.
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Spicy Kick: Craving some heat? Toss in sliced fresh chili or increase the red pepper flakes for a fiery finish that enlivens every bite.
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Cheese Swap: For a vegan option, substitute the Parmesan with a good-quality non-dairy cheese that melts well, ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy it!
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Sundried Tomato “Marry Me” Gnocchi are perfect for meal prep! You can sauté the aromatics, prepare the sauce, and even fry the gnocchi up to 24 hours in advance. To do this, simply refrigerate the cooked sauce in an airtight container and store the cooked gnocchi separately to maintain their crispiness. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat the sauce on low heat, adding the cream and cheese just before tossing the gnocchi in. This method allows for deliciously quick assembly while still offering restaurant-quality results, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Creamy Sundried Tomato “Marry Me” Gnocchi Recipe FAQs
What type of gnocchi should I use?
I recommend using potato gnocchi for that classic chewy texture, but feel free to substitute with another short pasta shape if you prefer. Fresh or frozen gnocchi can also work beautifully in this recipe!
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Creamy Sundried Tomato “Marry Me” Gnocchi in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do it gently on the stove to maintain that creamy texture—nobody wants a clumpy sauce!
Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely! To freeze, it’s best to separate the sauce and the cooked gnocchi. You can store the creamy sauce in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw the sauce in the fridge overnight, then gently reheat while pan-frying the gnocchi to restore their crispiness.
What if my sauce curdles?
If your sauce curdles, don’t fret! It happens sometimes. To prevent it in the future, always keep the heat low after adding cream and cheese, and avoid boiling. If it does curdle, you can try to fix it by whisking in a little extra cream or vegetable broth while gently warming it.
Is this recipe suitable for people with dairy allergies?
Yes, it can easily be adapted! Substitute heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative like cashew cream, and for cheese, you can use a good non-dairy cheese. Just make sure to verify any brands for compatibility with your dietary needs!
Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?
The more the merrier! Feel free to toss in roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or even mushrooms. Sauté them along with the onions to enhance their flavors and make this dish even more nutritious. Enjoy the journey of customizing your Creamy Sundried Tomato “Marry Me” Gnocchi!
Creamy Sundried Tomato “Marry Me” Gnocchi in Just 30 Minutes
Equipment
- Deep saucepan
- - Skillet
Ingredients
For the Gnocchi
- 400 grams Gnocchi Or substitute with another short pasta shape
For the Sauce
- 1 medium Red Onion Can be replaced with shallots or yellow onion
- 3 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic yields the best flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Adjust to taste
- 1 tablespoon Mixed Italian Seasoning Can substitute with dried basil, oregano, and thyme
- 150 grams Sundried Tomatoes Choose oil-packed for moisture
- 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste No direct substitute recommended
- 1 cup Vegetable Broth Chicken broth can enhance flavor if not strictly vegetarian
- 1 cup Heavy Cream Substitute with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative if desired
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Style Cheese A good non-dairy cheese can work as an alternative
- 1 cup Basil Fresh herb that finishes the dish
- 2 cups Baby Spinach Kale or other leafy greens can be substituted
Instructions
Instructions
- In a deep saucepan, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add diced red onion and sauté until soft and translucent, around 3-4 minutes. Toss in minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute more.
- Stir in chopped sundried tomatoes and the mixed Italian seasoning. Add the tomato paste, cooking for a few minutes to deepen the flavors. Pour in the vegetable broth and let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes.
- In a separate skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Fry the gnocchi for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until they are crispy and golden brown on the outside.
- Lower the heat of the sauce and gently stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan-style cheese until melted and creamy. Add in baby spinach and fresh basil, stirring until just wilted—this should only take a minute.
- Toss the golden gnocchi into the creamy sauce, ensuring they are well coated. Plate your dish and serve immediately, garnished with more fresh basil if desired.