Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi

Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. Its rich, creamy sauce combined with tender gnocchi and fresh spinach makes it perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or an elegant weekend gathering. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also bursting with taste, ensuring it will become a favorite in your meal rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With a total time of just 35 minutes, you can whip up this delicious dish even on busy nights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, and Parmesan creates a luscious sauce that’s hard to resist.
• Nutrient-Rich: Fresh spinach adds not only color but also essential vitamins and minerals to the meal.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or paired with a side salad for a complete meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The comforting flavors of this dish make it an instant hit with family and friends.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start creating your Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi, gather these essential tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Necessary for boiling the gnocchi, ensuring they cook evenly without sticking together.
• Skillet or Dutch oven: Ideal for sautéing the aromatics and creating the creamy sauce. A larger surface area helps with even cooking.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring the sauce without scratching your cookware. It allows for easy mixing while building flavors.

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Ingredients

For the Gnocchi

• Gnocchi: (500g package) – The star of the show! Look for shelf-stable potato gnocchi, readily available in most supermarkets. Their soft, pillowy texture is what makes this dish so comforting. Fresh gnocchi can also be used, but adjust cooking time accordingly.

For the Sauce

• Olive Oil: (2 tablespoons) – Essential for sautéing and building flavor. Use extra virgin olive oil for the best taste and health benefits. It provides a fruity note and healthy fats to the dish.
• Onion: (1 medium, chopped) – The aromatic base of our sauce. Yellow or white onion works perfectly, adding sweetness and depth of flavor as it cooks down.
• Garlic: (3 cloves, minced) – Adds a pungent and savory kick to the sauce. Freshly minced garlic is recommended for the most intense flavor.
• Crushed Tomatoes: (1 can, 28oz) – Forms the flavorful base of the tomato sauce. Use good quality crushed tomatoes for the best taste. You can also use diced tomatoes if you prefer a chunkier sauce.
• Tomato Paste: (2 tablespoons) – Concentrated tomato flavor that deepens the richness of the sauce. It adds umami and intensifies the tomato taste.
• Heavy Cream: (1 cup) – The secret to the creamy texture! Heavy cream adds richness and luxuriousness to the sauce, making it incredibly indulgent. For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version (though the flavor will be slightly different).
• Fresh Spinach: (5 oz, baby spinach) – Adds vibrant color, freshness, and nutritional value to the dish. Baby spinach is tender and cooks down quickly. You can also use frozen spinach; just be sure to thaw it thoroughly and squeeze out excess water before adding it to the sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese: (1/2 cup, grated, plus extra for serving) – Adds salty, savory, and nutty notes to the sauce. Freshly grated Parmesan is always best for flavor and texture. We use it in the sauce and for topping at the end.
• Dried Oregano: (1 teaspoon) – A classic Italian herb that complements tomatoes beautifully. It adds a warm, slightly peppery flavor to the sauce.
• Dried Basil: (1 teaspoon) – Another essential Italian herb that enhances the tomato flavor. It brings a slightly sweet and aromatic note to the dish.
• Salt: (to taste) – Essential for seasoning and enhancing all flavors in the dish. Start with a teaspoon and adjust to your preference.
• Black Pepper: (to taste) – Adds a touch of spice and depth of flavor. Freshly ground black pepper is recommended for the best aroma and taste.
• Red Pepper Flakes: (optional, pinch) – For a touch of heat. Add a pinch or more if you like a bit of spice in your tomato sauce.

How to Make Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi

Step 1: Prepare the Gnocchi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. While waiting:
1. Once boiling, add gnocchi according to package directions.
2. Cook until they float to the surface; typically takes just a few minutes.
3. Drain cooked gnocchi carefully; set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

While cooking gnocchi:
1. Heat olive oil in skillet over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion; cook until softened (~5-7 minutes).
3. Stir occasionally; avoid browning too much.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Tomato Paste

When onion is ready:
1. Add minced garlic; cook until fragrant (~1 minute).
2. Stir in tomato paste; cook for another 1-2 minutes while stirring constantly.

Step 4: Build the Tomato Sauce

For building flavor:
1. Pour in crushed tomatoes; mix well with onion-garlic-tomato paste mixture.
2. Season with oregano, basil, salt, black pepper; add optional red pepper flakes if desired.
3. Simmer on low heat covered for at least 15 minutes.

Step 5: Add Cream and Parmesan

Once simmered:
1. Remove skillet from heat; stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until melted smoothly.

Step 6: Incorporate Spinach

To finish:
1. Stir fresh spinach into creamy sauce until wilted (~1-2 minutes).

Step 7: Combine Gnocchi and Sauce

Now combine:
1. Add cooked gnocchi directly into skillet with creamy tomato spinach sauce.
2. Toss gently until evenly coated; adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish

Final touches:
1. Serve immediately while hot; garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs if desired.

With these steps completed, enjoy your rich Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi!

How to Serve Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi

Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors and presentation. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Basil: Fresh basil leaves add a fragrant aroma and a pop of color.
• Parsley: Chopped parsley brightens up the dish and adds freshness.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for a satisfying crunch.
• Ciabatta: A slice of ciabatta is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.

Add Extra Protein

• Grilled Chicken: Top your gnocchi with grilled chicken for an added protein boost.
• Sautéed Shrimp: Lightly sautéed shrimp can complement the creamy sauce beautifully.

Serve in Individual Bowls

• Personalized Portions: Dish out the gnocchi into individual bowls for an elegant presentation that guests will love.

How to Perfect Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi

To achieve the best version of Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi, follow these helpful tips for optimal flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the overall taste of your dish.
• Don’t Overcook Gnocchi: Cook gnocchi just until they float to ensure they remain tender and not mushy.
• Adjust Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
• Taste as You Go: Regularly taste the sauce while cooking to adjust seasoning according to your preference.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi

Pairing side dishes with Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich gnocchi.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted seasonal vegetables offer delicious caramelization and depth of flavor.
3. Caprese Salad: Slices of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze complement the Italian theme.
4. Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus adds a touch of elegance and color alongside your main dish.
5. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil makes for a tasty appetizer or side.
6. Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini provides a light, low-carb option that pairs well with creamy sauces.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many home cooks encounter pitfalls when preparing Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi. Here are some common mistakes and tips on how to avoid them.

• Overcooking the Gnocchi: Gnocchi should float to the surface when cooked. Keep an eye on them, as they can become mushy if overcooked.

• Skipping Aromatics: Don’t skip sautéing the onion and garlic. This step builds essential flavors in your sauce, so take the time to soften them properly.

• Using Low-Quality Tomatoes: The quality of crushed tomatoes greatly affects the sauce’s flavor. Choose high-quality canned tomatoes for the best results.

• Not Adjusting Seasoning: Always taste your sauce before serving. Adjust salt, pepper, and herbs to your liking for a well-balanced dish.

• Adding Spinach Too Early: Wait until the end to add spinach. This ensures it retains its vibrant color and nutrients without becoming overly wilted.

• Neglecting to Reserve Pasta Water: If your sauce is too thick, a splash of reserved pasta water can help adjust the consistency without losing flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.

• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.

• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth and stir until heated through. This method helps maintain creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi that can help you troubleshoot any concerns.

Can I use fresh gnocchi instead of shelf-stable?

Yes! Fresh gnocchi will have a lighter texture but may require adjusting the cooking time according to package instructions.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk. Each option will slightly change the flavor but still keep it creamy.

How do I make this dish dairy-free?

To make Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and omit Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.

How do I reheat leftover gnocchi?

Refer to our reheating instructions above for best results, ensuring the gnocchi remains creamy and delicious!

Final Thoughts

Creamy Tomato Spinach Gnocchi is not only rich in flavor but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the seasoning to fit your taste. This comforting dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings—try it today!