“Did you see the new Italian place downtown?” my friend exclaimed, her eyes lighting up. “They have this gnocchi that tastes like heaven!” Inspired, I decided to bring that luxury home with my own twist: Heavenly Millionaire Gnocchi with Creamy Sauce. This recipe transforms humble ingredients into a quick yet inviting meal that feels like a cozy hug on a plate. In just 30 minutes, you’ll be savoring pillowy gnocchi, perfectly pan-seared to add that enticing crunch, and enrobed in a velvety garlic-Parmesan sauce. It’s not only a delightful crowd-pleaser, but also infinitely customizable—add in your favorite veggies, protein, or even go vegan. Are you ready to create your own Italian escape without ever leaving the kitchen? Let’s dive in!
Why is this gnocchi irresistible?
Heavenly Comfort: This Millionaire Gnocchi offers a comforting experience that rivals your favorite Italian restaurant, turning a simple weeknight dinner into an indulgent escape.
Quick & Simple: With minimal prep and ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy nights when you crave something special without the hassle.
Customizable Delights: Enjoy the versatility of adding your favorite vegetables or proteins, making it a meal that suits everyone’s palate and dietary needs.
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of a rich garlic-Parmesan cream sauce with crispy gnocchi creates a flavor experience that is both luxurious and satisfying.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a cozy dinner for two or a gathering with friends, this gnocchi is guaranteed to impress and have everyone asking for seconds!
Try pairing it with a light salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that’s sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation.
Heavenly Millionaire Gnocchi Ingredients
Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners!
For the Gnocchi
• Potato Gnocchi – Your base for a delicious meal; opt for fresh for the best texture.
• Olive Oil – Essential for frying the gnocchi; avocado oil works as a lighter substitute.
For the Cream Sauce
• Butter – Adds a rich dimension to the sauce; avoid margarine for authentic flavor.
• Garlic – Fresh minced garlic gives the sauce aromatic depth; steer clear of powder for best results.
• Heavy Cream – Creates the luxurious creaminess; substitute with half-and-half or plant-based cream for a vegan version.
• Parmesan Cheese – Infuses umami into the dish; using vegan Parmesan ensures everyone can enjoy this heavenly million gnocchi.
Herbs & Seasoning
• Rosemary – Use fresh for aromatic flavor; dried is acceptable if needed.
• Parsley – Adds freshness to balance the richness; fresh is always preferable.
• Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to your taste.
• Red Pepper Flakes – Provides optional heat; use sparingly to enhance without overwhelming.
Prepare these ingredients to create your own Italian escape right in your kitchen!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Heavenly Millionaire Gnocchi
Step 1: Boil Gnocchi
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, carefully add the potato gnocchi and cook them for about 2 to 4 minutes, or until they float to the surface—this indicates they are perfectly done. Drain the gnocchi in a colander and let them sit while you prepare the sauce.
Step 2: Sear Gnocchi
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and melt 2 tablespoons of butter with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once the butter is melted and bubbly, add the drained gnocchi in a single layer. Sear the gnocchi for 3 to 5 minutes, turning gently, until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Remove the gnocchi from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add an additional tablespoon of butter. Allow it to melt, then add 3 cloves of minced garlic, sautéing for about 1 minute or until fragrant. Be sure not to let the garlic brown too much; you want it to release its aroma and flavor without burning.
Step 4: Simmer Cream
Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream into the skillet with the sautéed garlic and stir gently to combine. Allow the cream to come to a gentle simmer, cooking for about 3 to 4 minutes, or until it slightly thickens. Keep an eye on it while you stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Step 5: Mix in Flavors
Reduce the heat to low and stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, along with fresh rosemary and parsley, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth. This will create the luxurious garlic-Parmesan sauce that envelops the gnocchi.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Return the crispy gnocchi to the skillet, tossing gently to coat them in the creamy sauce. Heat them through for about 1 minute, ensuring every piece is well-coated. Serve your Heavenly Millionaire Gnocchi hot, garnished with extra Parmesan, fresh herbs, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. Enjoy the heavenly comfort!
How to Store and Freeze Heavenly Millionaire Gnocchi
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Fridge: Store leftover Heavenly Millionaire Gnocchi in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will help maintain the creamy sauce’s consistency and prevent the gnocchi from drying out.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the sauce separately from the gnocchi in airtight containers for up to 3 months. This preserves the flavors and textures, allowing you to enjoy a quick meal later.
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Reheating: To reheat, thaw the sauce in the fridge overnight, then gently warm it in a saucepan, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to restore its creamy consistency. Heat the gnocchi in boiling water for a minute before mixing with the sauce.
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Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the creamy sauce in advance for a fuss-free dinner. Just cook the gnocchi fresh before serving to maintain that perfect texture.
Expert Tips for Heavenly Millionaire Gnocchi
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Perfect Texture: Cook gnocchi just until they float to avoid overcooking, which can lead to a mushy texture.
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Crispy Outside: Ensure your skillet is hot before searing the gnocchi for a deliciously crispy exterior.
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Sauce Thickness: If your creamy sauce becomes too thick, simply thin it out with a bit of the pasta cooking water for the perfect consistency.
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Make Ahead: For convenience, prepare the creamy sauce in advance; just add freshly cooked gnocchi before serving to keep them tender.
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Vegan Option: To create a plant-based version, replace heavy cream with a favorite non-dairy alternative and use vegan Parmesan cheese.
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Veggie Boost: Consider adding sautéed vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor when making your Heavenly Millionaire Gnocchi.
Make Ahead Options
These Heavenly Millionaire Gnocchi are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the creamy sauce up to 3 days in advance and simply refrigerate it in an airtight container. To maintain the sauce’s quality, let it cool completely before sealing; this prevents any separation. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, just reheat the sauce gently on the stovetop while cooking the gnocchi fresh for that delightful texture. This way, you can savor the comforting taste of creamy gnocchi without extra hassle on busy weeknights! By prepping ahead, you’ll cut down on your cooking time significantly, giving you more moments to relax.
What to Serve with Heavenly Millionaire Gnocchi
Elevate your dining experience by complementing this creamy dish with delightful sides and beverages.
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Garlic Bread: The crispy, buttery goodness of garlic bread perfectly balances the rich, creamy sauce, making each bite more satisfying.
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Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the heaviness of the gnocchi. The crunch enhances the overall meal experience.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring extra flavors and textures that harmonize beautifully with the gnocchi’s creaminess and can boost nutritional value.
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Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous tossed with fresh herbs offers a delightful grain side that elevates your Italian feast.
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Sparkling White Wine: A chilled glass of sparkling wine cuts through the richness and brings a touch of elegance to your meal.
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Lemon Sorbet: To cleanse the palate after this heavenly millionaire gnocchi, a refreshing lemon sorbet provides a zesty and light finish.
Heavenly Millionaire Gnocchi Variations
Feel free to personalize your gnocchi delight with these tempting twists and additions!
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Veggie-Packed: Add sautéed veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for a nutritious boost.
Including seasonal vegetables adds color and flavor. It’s a wonderful way to sneak in some greens! -
Protein Boost: Mix in grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas to make the dish heartier.
Adding protein turns this into a fulfilling meal for hungry diners. It’s an easy way to satisfy everyone! -
Spicy Kick: Adjust the heat by varying the red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
Whether you prefer a gentle warmth or a fiery bite, spice it up or keep it mild for the kids. -
Light & Creamy: For a lighter sauce, use half-and-half or swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt.
This twist keeps the richness while minimizing calories. You’re still indulging without the guilt! -
Cheesy Goodness: Try different varieties of cheese such as goat cheese or a sprinkle of mozzarella for an Italian twist.
The additional cheese can add a layer of richness that complements the gnocchi beautifully. -
Herbal Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like basil or thyme instead of rosemary and parsley for fresh flavors.
A little herbal change can make this dish feel like a brand-new experience. Discover your favorite combo! -
Vegan Delight: Substitute heavy cream and cheese with plant-based versions for a delicious vegan adaptation.
This makes it a fantastic option for your plant-based friends, ensuring everyone can enjoy a heavenly meal!
Transform your Heavenly Millionaire Gnocchi creation into something special with these variations. Ready to customize? Let your culinary creativity shine!
Heavenly Millionaire Gnocchi Recipe FAQs
What kind of potato gnocchi should I use?
For the best texture and flavor, I recommend using fresh potato gnocchi, which can be found in the refrigerated section of grocery stores. However, you can also use frozen gnocchi; just follow package instructions for cooking times.
How should I store leftover Heavenly Millionaire Gnocchi?
To maintain its deliciousness, place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps the creamy sauce intact and prevents the gnocchi from drying out.
Can I freeze Heavenly Millionaire Gnocchi?
Absolutely! You can freeze the creamy sauce separately from the gnocchi. Store the components in airtight containers for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw the sauce in the fridge overnight and reheat gently. Boil the gnocchi for one minute to warm it up before combining them.
What if my sauce turns out too thick?
No worries! If your sauce thickens too much while cooking, simply stir in a splash of pasta cooking water to achieve the desired creamy consistency. This water contains starch that helps the sauce cling beautifully to the gnocchi.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes! To create a vegan version of Heavenly Millionaire Gnocchi, replace the heavy cream with your favorite plant-based cream and opt for vegan Parmesan cheese. This way, you can still indulge in the same rich flavors while accommodating dietary preferences.
How can I add more veggies or protein to this dish?
Feel free to sauté your favorite vegetables, like spinach or bell peppers, and incorporate them into the sauce for added nutrition. Additionally, grilled chicken, shrimp, or even tofu can be added when you return the gnocchi to the skillet for a heartier meal. The more the merrier, right?
Heavenly Millionaire Gnocchi: Comfort for Every Craving
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the potato gnocchi and cook for about 2 to 4 minutes, or until they float. Drain and set aside.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the gnocchi in a single layer and sear for 3 to 5 minutes until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat and melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add 3 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and stir to combine. Allow to simmer for about 3 to 4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, fresh rosemary, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Return the crispy gnocchi to the skillet, tossing gently to coat in the sauce. Heat through for about 1 minute, then serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan, herbs, and red pepper flakes.
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