If you’re on the hunt for a dish that’s not only comforting but also irresistibly delicious, look no further than this Marry Me Gnocchi Recipe. Picture this: fluffy gnocchi bathed in a creamy, rich sauce, with sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil adding bursts of flavor. This dish is perfect for a cozy night in or impressing someone special. Let’s dive into how to create this culinary masterpiece that might just lead to a proposal!

What Makes This Recipe Special

This Marry Me Gnocchi stands out because of its luscious, creamy sauce that melds beautifully with the soft gnocchi. The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil adds a depth of flavor that elevates the dish. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience. The balance of creamy, savory, and slightly tangy notes makes every bite memorable. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, which means you can whip it up on a weeknight without breaking a sweat.

Ingredients at a Glance

1 tablespoon olive oil
2 medium cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
1 1/2 cups vegetable broth
16 ounces gnocchi
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1/8 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more to taste)
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (plus more to taste)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
2/3 cup heavy whipping cream
2 cups baby spinach, roughly chopped
5-6 fresh basil leaves, chiffonaded (rolled and cut into ribbons), plus more for garnish
Basil leaves for garnish
Shredded Parmesan cheese for serving
Crushed red pepper flakes for additional heat (if desired)

Cook’s Kit

Large skillet: For cooking the gnocchi and sauce.
Wooden spoon or spatula: To stir and combine ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accuracy in your ingredients.
Chopping board and knife: For preparing garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and basil.
Serving bowls: To showcase your finished dish beautifully.

The Method for Marry Me Gnocchi Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown.

Step 2: Add Seasonings

Stir in the Italian seasoning, followed by the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Step 3: Cook the Gnocchi

Add the gnocchi to the bubbling broth. Cook according to package instructions, usually about 2-3 minutes, or until they float to the top, indicating they are done.

Step 4: Incorporate the Goodies

Once the gnocchi is cooked, reduce the heat to low and stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, crushed red pepper flakes, kosher salt, and black pepper.

Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy whipping cream and stir well to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 6: Add Spinach and Cheese

Fold in the chopped spinach and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the spinach wilts and the cheese is melted and fully incorporated into the sauce.

Step 7: Finish with Fresh Basil

Finally, add the chiffonaded basil leaves and give everything a good stir. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish

Serve the Marry Me Gnocchi warm, garnished with additional basil leaves, shredded Parmesan cheese, and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for those who enjoy an extra kick.

How to Make It Lighter

Use half-and-half or a low-fat cream alternative instead of heavy whipping cream for a lighter sauce.
Substitute the gnocchi with zucchini noodles or cauliflower gnocchi for a lower-carb option.
Reduce the amount of cheese used, or opt for a reduced-fat Parmesan.
Add more vegetables, such as mushrooms or bell peppers, to increase fiber and nutrients without adding many calories.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your sauce is too thick, add a splash more vegetable broth or cream to loosen it up.
For a creamier sauce, ensure you stir continuously while adding the cream to prevent curdling.
If the gnocchi is sticking together, ensure you stir gently and avoid overcrowding the pan.
Adjust the seasoning gradually; taste as you go to avoid over-salting.

Storage Pro Tips

This Marry Me Gnocchi can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken as it cools, so when reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or cream to restore its creamy consistency. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked gnocchi without the cream sauce. Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
To reheat frozen gnocchi, cook from frozen in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until heated through, then combine with the sauce.

Your Top Questions

Can I use fresh gnocchi instead of packaged gnocchi?

Absolutely! Fresh gnocchi will work beautifully in this recipe. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as fresh gnocchi may take less time to cook.

What can I substitute for sun-dried tomatoes?

If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes, consider using roasted red peppers or fresh cherry tomatoes sautéed until soft. Both will add a lovely flavor to your dish.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian, as it uses vegetable broth and no meat ingredients. Enjoy it as is!

How can I make this dish spicier?

To amp up the heat, add more crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. You can also serve it with sliced jalapeños for an extra kick.

Wrap-Up

This Marry Me Gnocchi Recipe is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that will have you coming back for seconds (and maybe thirds!). The creamy sauce, tender gnocchi, and vibrant spinach make for a delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to impress your partner or treat yourself to a satisfying dinner, this recipe is your ticket to culinary bliss. So grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to fall in love with your plate!

With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this dish may just be the answer to your dinner prayers. Enjoy every comforting bite of this Marry Me Gnocchi, and who knows? You might just find yourself proposing to your own kitchen!