If you are craving a comfort dish that comes together in a snap yet feels indulgent and special, this 15 Minute Creamy Alfredo Gnocchi Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine pillowy potato gnocchi enveloped in a rich, garlicky Alfredo sauce that’s bursting with cheese and a subtle hint of herbs. It’s an effortless recipe that manages to feel both luxurious and homey, perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying with minimal fuss. Trust me, once you try this recipe, creamy, luscious gnocchi will become a go-to treat you’ll want to make over and over again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keep it simple and delicious with these easy-to-find ingredients that each play a crucial role in creating a velvety, flavorful Alfredo sauce with tender gnocchi that melts in your mouth.
- Butter: Adds richness and a lovely base flavor that carries the garlic perfectly.
- Garlic (minced): Offers a fragrant punch that infuses the sauce with savory depth.
- Vegetable or chicken broth (or dry white wine): Introduces a subtle acidity and complexity, balancing the creaminess.
- Dijon mustard: Provides a gentle tang that brightens the sauce beautifully.
- Italian seasoning: Brings a classic herb aroma to elevate the overall profile.
- Uncooked potato gnocchi: The star ingredient delivering soft, pillowy texture.
- Heavy/whipping cream: Ensures the sauce is silky, luscious, and utterly indulgent.
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce for that iconic cheesy richness.
- Salt & pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance every layer of flavor.
- Fresh parsley (chopped): Adds a burst of color and fresh herbal notes as a perfect finishing touch.
How to Make 15 Minute Creamy Alfredo Gnocchi Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Garlic in Butter
Start by melting the butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. The moment it’s melted and shimmering, toss in the minced garlic. Give it about 30 seconds to soften and release that irresistible aroma—this step is where the magic begins!
Step 2: Build the Sauce Base
Next, stir in the broth (or white wine if you prefer), Dijon mustard, and Italian seasoning. Whisk everything together until smooth and combined. These ingredients will layer wonderful depth and tang to complement the creamy elements coming next.
Step 3: Cook Gnocchi with Cream
Add the uncooked gnocchi and heavy cream straight to the pan. Reduce the heat to medium and cover with a lid. This gentle cooking steams the gnocchi, allowing it to plump up and soak in all those delicious flavors, roughly 5 minutes is all it needs.
Step 4: Finish with Parmesan
Remove the lid and stir in the freshly grated parmesan cheese. Keep the pan uncovered now and let it cook for a few more minutes. This will thicken the sauce up nicely while ensuring the gnocchi is tender and perfectly cooked through.
Step 5: Season and Garnish
Finally, season with salt and pepper according to your taste. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top for a hit of color and freshness before serving.
How to Serve 15 Minute Creamy Alfredo Gnocchi Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle extra parmesan or a handful of toasted pine nuts for added texture. You can also add a little cracked black pepper or fresh basil leaves to amp up flavor and visual appeal. A squeeze of lemon juice can lift the creaminess with a bright note if you’re feeling adventurous.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette or roasted seasonal vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. Garlic bread or warm crusty rolls are great for mopping up leftover sauce, making every bite count.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve it in warmed shallow bowls garnished with parsley and parmesan for an inviting look. Or try plating the gnocchi atop sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a restaurant-style touch. For a casual feast, serve family-style in the skillet right at the table so everyone can dig in and enjoy the creamy goodness together.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cool any leftovers completely, then transfer them to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce tends to thicken as it chills, so stir gently before reheating.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, be mindful that the cream sauce may separate or lose some silkiness after thawing. If you choose to freeze, place the gnocchi in a freezer-safe container and consume within 1 month for best quality. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. You might need to add a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce and revive that fresh-from-the-pan texture. Avoid microwaving at high heat, which can make the sauce grainy.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought gnocchi for this recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought uncooked gnocchi works perfectly in this recipe and saves time. Just follow the same cooking instructions for fantastic results.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for the cream and cheese?
You can substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and use a dairy-free parmesan-style cheese. The flavor will differ but will still be delicious and creamy.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Yes! Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or crispy pancetta make excellent additions if you’d like to boost protein and make this even heartier.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without drying them out?
Reheat slowly on the stove over low heat with a small splash of broth or cream to keep the sauce smooth and creamy. This method helps prevent drying or curdling.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce base up to a day in advance, then add the gnocchi and finish cooking just before serving for that fresh, creamy texture.
Final Thoughts
This 15 Minute Creamy Alfredo Gnocchi Recipe is a true lifesaver when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. Its simplicity, speed, and mouthwatering flavors make it perfect for any occasion—whether a cozy night in or a casual dinner with friends. Give it a try and enjoy the warm, cheesy comfort that only fresh gnocchi in creamy Alfredo sauce can bring to the table.
Print
15 Minute Creamy Alfredo Gnocchi Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This 15 Minute Creamy Alfredo Gnocchi recipe is a quick and indulgent meal featuring tender potato gnocchi bathed in a rich, velvety Alfredo sauce made with butter, garlic, cream, and parmesan cheese. Enhanced with a hint of Dijon mustard and Italian seasoning, this comforting dish is perfect for a simple yet elegant weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 cup vegetable or chicken broth (or dry white wine)
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 dash Italian seasoning
- 1 pound uncooked potato gnocchi
- 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
Instructions
- Sauté the garlic: Add the butter to a skillet over medium-high heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Combine liquids and seasonings: Stir in the broth (or dry white wine), Dijon mustard, and Italian seasoning. Mix well to combine the flavors.
- Cook the gnocchi: Add the uncooked potato gnocchi and heavy cream to the pan. Reduce the heat to medium and cover the pan. Let it cook for 5 minutes to allow the gnocchi to soften and absorb the flavors.
- Incorporate parmesan cheese: Remove the lid and stir in the freshly grated parmesan cheese. Continue cooking uncovered for a few more minutes until the sauce thickens further and the gnocchi is fully cooked through.
- Season and garnish: Adjust the seasoning by adding salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Using dry white wine instead of broth adds extra depth to the sauce but broth works equally well.
- Ensure not to overcook the garlic; it should be fragrant without burning to avoid bitterness.
- Stir frequently after adding parmesan cheese to prevent sauce from sticking to the pan.
- This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half but the sauce will be less rich.
