Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this Creamy Spinach and Ricotta Gnocchi! It’s one of those dishes that just warms your heart and fills your belly with happiness. Seriously, it’s so simple to whip up, yet it tastes like you spent all day in the kitchen. The gnocchi are tender little pillows that soak up a luscious, creamy sauce made with fresh spinach and ricotta cheese. I love how the garlic adds this amazing aroma that fills the air as it cooks—it’s like a hug for your senses! Plus, it’s a fantastic vegetarian option that even meat-lovers rave about. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a go-to weekday meal that’s quick, satisfying, and oh-so-delicious!
Creamy Spinach and Ricotta Gnocchi Recipe Ingredients
1 package gnocchi – the star of the show, ready to soak up all that creamy goodness!
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped – for that vibrant color and nutritious boost.
1 cup ricotta cheese – creamy and dreamy, it adds a lovely richness.
1 cup heavy cream – because we want it luxuriously creamy, right?
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – for that salty, nutty flavor that elevates the dish.
2 cloves garlic, minced – the aromatic kick that makes everything better.
Salt to taste – a little sprinkle to enhance all those flavors.
Pepper to taste – just enough to give it a gentle zing.
How to Prepare Creamy Spinach and Ricotta Gnocchi
Preparing this Creamy Spinach and Ricotta Gnocchi is a breeze, and I promise you’ll have it on your table in no time! Let’s dive in step-by-step to ensure everything comes together perfectly.
Cooking the Gnocchi
First things first, cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions—usually just a few minutes in boiling salted water until they float to the surface. That’s your cue! Once they’re done, drain them and set aside. Keep it simple, and don’t let them sit too long or they might stick together.
In a large skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Toss in your minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant—oh, the smell is heavenly! Then, add the chopped spinach and stir until it wilts down, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Make sure to keep an eye on it; you want that vibrant green color without overcooking!
Combining Ingredients
Now, it’s time for the magic! Stir in the ricotta and heavy cream until everything’s well combined and creamy. Then, gently add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet. Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. It’s important to be gentle here so your gnocchi stay intact and don’t turn into mush.
Final Cooking Steps
Let everything simmer together for just 2-3 minutes, allowing those flavors to meld beautifully. You want it hot throughout and the sauce to be just the right consistency—creamy, but not too runny. If it seems thick, a splash of pasta water can help loosen it up. And voilà! You’re ready to serve this delightful dish hot and enjoy every bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy to prepare, ready in just 25 minutes!
Rich, creamy flavor that feels indulgent but is super simple to make.
Vegetarian-friendly, making it a great option for any dinner table.
Uses fresh ingredients that pack a nutritious punch.
Perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting weekend treat.
Versatile enough to customize with your favorite veggies or proteins.
Kid-approved and sure to please even the pickiest eaters!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make this Creamy Spinach and Ricotta Gnocchi absolutely perfect! First off, always opt for fresh spinach—trust me, it makes a world of difference in flavor. If you can, get ricotta from a local cheese shop for that homemade taste. When cooking the gnocchi, don’t overcrowd the pot; cook them in batches if needed to keep them from sticking together. And here’s a little secret: if your sauce seems too thick, just add a splash of the pasta water to loosen it up—this also helps the sauce cling beautifully to the gnocchi!
Lastly, keep an eye on the garlic while sautéing. It can go from perfectly fragrant to burnt in a flash, and nobody wants that bitter taste ruining the dish. Enjoy the cooking process, and don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning to suit your palate!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk numbers! Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving of this Creamy Spinach and Ricotta Gnocchi. Keep in mind, these values can vary a bit based on the specific brands and ingredients you use, but this will give you a good idea:
Calories: 450
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 15g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 500mg
This dish is hearty and satisfying, making it a wonderful addition to your meal rotation. Enjoy the creamy goodness while knowing you’re getting a good balance of flavors and nutrients!
FAQ About Creamy Spinach and Ricotta Gnocchi Recipe
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Absolutely, you can use frozen spinach! Just make sure to thaw it and squeeze out any excess moisture before adding it to the dish. This helps keep your sauce from getting watery. Frozen spinach is super convenient, and while it may not have the same vibrant color as fresh, it still packs a nutritious punch!
How to store leftovers?
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare because it’s so good!), just transfer them to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. They’ll keep well for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy again, just reheat it gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to bring back that creamy consistency. Avoid the microwave if you can; it can make the gnocchi tough!
Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! This recipe is super versatile, and you can add any veggies you love. Try tossing in some cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness, or sautéed mushrooms for an earthy touch. Zucchini, bell peppers, or even some peas would work beautifully too. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time a bit depending on what you choose, so everything is tender and delicious!
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