Creamy One Pan Spinach Gnocchi – Rich, Comforting & Ready in 30 Minutes

If you’re searching for a fast, cozy, and indulgent dinner that requires minimal cleanup, this Creamy One Pan Spinach Gnocchi is exactly what you need. Soft, pillowy gnocchi simmer in a luscious garlic Parmesan cream sauce with fresh spinach, creating a dish that feels restaurant-quality yet weeknight-easy.

Everything comes together in one pan, making this the ultimate comfort food for busy nights, meatless Mondays, or anytime you crave something rich, creamy, and satisfying—without spending hours in the kitchen.

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⭐ Why You’ll Love This Creamy One Pan Spinach Gnocchi

• One pan = easy cleanup
• Ready in 30 minutes
• Rich, creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce
• Vegetarian & customizable
• Perfect for busy weeknights
• Elegant enough for guests
• Comfort food without being heavy

This dish strikes the perfect balance between indulgent and wholesome.

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🍝 What Makes Gnocchi So Special?

Unlike traditional pasta, gnocchi are soft Italian dumplings, usually made from potatoes. Their pillowy texture allows them to:

• Absorb sauce beautifully
• Cook directly in broth or cream
• Create a naturally thick, luxurious texture
• Deliver ultimate comfort in every bite

In this recipe, the gnocchi cook directly in the sauce, releasing starches that make the dish extra creamy—without needing extra flour or thickeners.

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🛒 Ingredients for Creamy One Pan Spinach Gnocchi

Main Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (16 oz) package shelf-stable potato gnocchi
• 1½ cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 cups fresh baby spinach

Seasonings

• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Optional Add-Ins

• Mushrooms
• Sun-dried tomatoes
• Cherry tomatoes
• Cooked chicken or crispy bacon

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👩‍🍳 How to Make Creamy One Pan Spinach Gnocchi (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft. Add garlic and sauté 30 seconds until fragrant.

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Step 2: Add Gnocchi & Broth

Add the gnocchi directly to the pan along with the broth. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer.

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Step 3: Pour in the Cream

Add heavy cream, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gnocchi are tender.

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Step 4: Add Spinach & Parmesan

Stir in the fresh spinach and Parmesan cheese. Cook until the spinach wilts and the sauce thickens into a creamy, silky consistency.

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Step 5: Taste & Adjust

Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or cheese if needed.

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Step 6: Serve

Serve hot with extra Parmesan on top and freshly cracked black pepper.

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🥬 Flavor & Texture Profile

• Gnocchi: Soft, fluffy, and tender
• Sauce: Creamy, garlicky, and rich
• Spinach: Fresh, vibrant, and lightly wilted
• Finish: Savory Parmesan with a buttery depth

Each bite is comforting, velvety, and deeply satisfying.

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🔄 Delicious Variations

1. Creamy Mushroom Spinach Gnocchi

Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onion for added umami.

2. Chicken Spinach Gnocchi

Add cooked, shredded chicken for extra protein.

3. Sun-Dried Tomato Gnocchi

Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes for tangy sweetness.

4. Vegan Spinach Gnocchi

Use coconut cream or cashew cream and dairy-free Parmesan.

5. Spicy Creamy Gnocchi

Add extra red pepper flakes or chili oil for heat.

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✅ Pro Tips for the Best One Pan Gnocchi

• Use shelf-stable gnocchi, not frozen, for best texture
• Simmer gently to prevent cream from breaking
• Add spinach at the end to preserve color and nutrients
• Stir often to prevent sticking
• Parmesan thickens the sauce naturally—add it gradually

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❄️ Storage & Reheating

Refrigerator

Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Avoid overheating to prevent separation.

Freezing

Not recommended due to the cream-based sauce changing texture.

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🍽 What to Serve With Creamy Spinach Gnocchi

• Garlic bread or focaccia
• Caesar salad or mixed green salad
• Roasted vegetables
• Grilled chicken or shrimp
• Sparkling water or white wine

It works beautifully as a main dish or a luxurious side.

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❤️ Why This Dish Is So Popular

People love Creamy One Pan Spinach Gnocchi because it:

• Is quick, cozy, and indulgent
• Uses pantry-friendly ingredients
• Feels gourmet but is beginner-friendly
• Requires only one pan
• Is perfect for busy families and solo cooks alike

It’s a comfort classic with modern convenience.

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✅ Final Thoughts

Creamy One Pan Spinach Gnocchi is the ultimate weeknight comfort food—rich, creamy, garlicky, and beautifully balanced with fresh spinach. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting guests, or treating yourself to a cozy meatless meal, this dish delivers bold flavor with minimal effort and cleanup.

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