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- 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained - 1 cup canned artichoke hearts, chopped Potato gnocchi serves as the heart of this dish. It is soft and pillowy, making it a perfect base. Olive oil adds richness and helps sauté the garlic. Frozen spinach brings green color and nutrients, while canned artichoke hearts add a unique flavor. - 1 cup cream cheese, softened - 1/2 cup heavy cream - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Cream cheese gives the dish a rich, creamy texture. Heavy cream enhances the sauce's smoothness, while grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty kick. - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional) - Fresh basil or parsley for garnish Garlic adds a robust flavor to the sauce. If you like a little heat, crushed red pepper flakes will do the trick. Fresh basil or parsley brightens the dish and makes it look beautiful. This combination of ingredients creates a hearty and flavorful meal. Each component plays a vital role in making creamy spinach artichoke gnocchi a tasty dinner idea. Boiling Gnocchi Start with a large pot of salted water. Bring it to a boil. Add the potato gnocchi and cook them until they float. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Floating means they are ready! Draining and Setting Aside Carefully drain the gnocchi in a colander. Let them sit while you prepare the sauce. This step helps keep the gnocchi from getting soggy. Sautéing Garlic and Vegetables In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 1 minute. You want it fragrant but not brown. Next, stir in 1 cup of thawed and drained spinach and 1 cup of chopped artichoke hearts. Cook these for 2-3 minutes, mixing them well. Incorporating Cream Cheese and Heavy Cream Lower the heat and add 1 cup of softened cream cheese. Stir continuously until it melts into the mixture. Then, pour in 1/2 cup of heavy cream. Keep mixing until you have a smooth, creamy sauce. Add 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts. Season with crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to taste. Adding Gnocchi to Sauce Gently add the cooked gnocchi to the creamy sauce. Use a spatula to fold the gnocchi into the sauce, making sure they are well coated. Simmering the Dish Let the dish simmer on low heat for 2-3 minutes. This helps the flavors blend together. Once heated through, it’s ready to serve! Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a lovely finish. - Proper Heat Management: Keep your heat on medium. Too high can burn the garlic or sauce. You want a gentle simmer, not a boil. This helps blend the flavors well. - Incorporating Ingredients Gradually: Add the cream cheese first. Stir it in slowly. This makes it easier to melt. After that, pour in the heavy cream bit by bit. This keeps your sauce smooth. - Options for Extra Seasoning: Try adding lemon juice or zest for brightness. A pinch of nutmeg can also enhance the dish. You can also add more crushed red pepper for heat. - Suggested Garnishes: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley add color and flavor. You can sprinkle some extra Parmesan on top too. This makes the dish look more appealing. - Best Practices for Cooking Gnocchi: Always boil in salted water. This helps season the gnocchi as they cook. Only cook them until they float. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. - Avoiding Common Mistakes: Don’t overcrowd the pot with gnocchi. This can lead to uneven cooking. Also, be careful not to let the sauce boil. It can separate and lose its creaminess. {{image_2}} You can easily make this dish vegan. Use dairy-free cream cheese instead of regular cream cheese. Many brands offer great taste. Look for options made from nuts or soy. They blend well into your sauce. For a creamy texture, try using plant-based milk or cashew cream. These alternatives add a nice depth. They also keep the dish rich. To make this meal heartier, consider adding chicken or shrimp. Cook them separately first, then mix them into the creamy sauce. This adds great protein and flavor. If you want meatless options, try chickpeas or lentils. They are healthy and filling. Plus, they soak up the flavors of the sauce. Adding other vegetables can enhance your dish. Try bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra taste and texture. Just sauté them with the garlic. You can also switch up the cheese. Use mozzarella or goat cheese for a different flavor. Each cheese brings its own unique taste, making your dish exciting. - Refrigeration Guidelines: To store leftovers, place the gnocchi in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days. Keep it sealed to prevent drying out. - Freezing Instructions: If you want to freeze, use a freezer-safe container. It can last for up to three months. Make sure to label the container with the date. - Best Methods for Reheating: For reheating, the stovetop works best. Place the gnocchi in a pan over low heat. Stir gently to heat evenly. You can add a splash of cream or water to help the sauce. - Maintaining Creaminess: To keep it creamy, avoid high heat. Gradually warm the dish while stirring. This helps maintain that smooth texture you love. - How Long Does it Last?: When stored properly, the dish lasts about three days in the fridge and three months in the freezer. - Signs of Spoilage: Look for changes in color or smell. If the gnocchi seems dry or has an off smell, it's best to throw it away. Always prioritize safety when storing food. Yes, you can use homemade gnocchi. Advantages of Homemade Gnocchi Homemade gnocchi has a light and fluffy texture. You can customize flavors, like adding herbs or spices. Plus, it can be a fun cooking project. Tips for Making Your Own Use high-quality potatoes for a better taste. Cook them until soft. Mash the potatoes well to avoid lumps. Mix in flour and egg to form a dough. Roll it into ropes and cut into small pieces. You can serve many side dishes with this gnocchi. Suggested Side Dishes A fresh salad pairs well. Try a simple mixed greens salad with lemon vinaigrette. Garlic bread is also a great option. It adds a crunchy, buttery flavor. Complementary Flavors Serve with roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. They add color and balance the creaminess. A light, crisp white wine enhances the dish as well. Yes, this dish is great for meal prep. Tips for Preparing Ahead Cook the gnocchi and sauce separately. Store them in airtight containers. This keeps the gnocchi from getting mushy. Storing and Reheating for Meal Prep Store in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm the sauce and add the gnocchi. This way, you maintain the creamy texture. This dish combines simple ingredients like gnocchi, spinach, and artichokes to create tasty comfort food. You learned how to prepare a creamy sauce and combine it with the gnocchi. I shared tips to make your sauce perfect and ideas for variations, too. Remember, cooking is about experimenting. Don’t hesitate to add your twist. Enjoy this dish with family or friends, and savor every bite. Your kitchen adventure is just beginning!

Creamy Spinach Artichoke Gnocchi

Indulge in a deliciously creamy spinach artichoke gnocchi dish that will impress your family and friends! This easy recipe combines tender potato gnocchi with a rich sauce made from cream cheese, heavy cream, and flavorful spinach and artichokes. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this dish is ready in just 25 minutes! Click through to discover the full recipe and elevate your meal tonight!
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Ingredients
  

1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained

1 cup canned artichoke hearts, chopped

1 cup cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the surface (about 2-3 minutes). Drain and set aside.

    In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

      Stir in the thawed spinach and chopped artichoke hearts. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the spinach to incorporate with the artichokes.

        Lower the heat and add the softened cream cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously until it melts and combines evenly with the spinach and artichokes.

          Gradually pour in the heavy cream, mixing until you have a creamy sauce.

            Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted. Season with crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to taste.

              Gently add the cooked gnocchi into the creamy sauce, folding until the gnocchi is well coated.

                Let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.

                  Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley for an aromatic touch.

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 mins | 25 mins | 4 servings