Creamy Spicy Gnocchi Recipe

If you’re looking for a dinner that brings comfort, a touch of spice, and lots of creamy richness, this Creamy Spicy Gnocchi is the recipe for you. Pillowy gnocchi coated in a velvety, spicy sauce is the kind of indulgent meal that warms you from the inside out. This dish is not only delicious but also surprisingly easy to make, making it a great choice for both busy weeknights and weekend cooking adventures.

In this recipe, we’ll go step-by-step through making a restaurant-quality creamy spicy sauce that complements the soft, chewy gnocchi perfectly. Grab your ingredients, and let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Spicy Gnocchi Recipe

1. Rich, Comforting Flavors: The creamy, spicy sauce is both warming and satisfying.
2. Quick and Easy: Made in one pot in under 30 minutes, this recipe is ideal for quick meals.
3. Customizable Spice Level: Adjust the spice to make it as mild or as fiery as you like.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Gnocchi

1. Cook the Gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions, typically around 2-3 minutes, or until they float to the top.
2. Drain and Set Aside: Drain the gnocchi and set aside. Drizzle a little olive oil over them to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Start the Creamy Spicy Sauce

1. Heat Olive Oil and Butter: In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat until melted and bubbly.
2. Sauté Onion: Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, until it becomes soft and translucent.
3. Add Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes: Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring continuously for about 1 minute until fragrant. Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes according to your spice preference.
4. Stir in Smoked Paprika: Sprinkle in the smoked paprika and mix well, letting the spices bloom for an added depth of flavor.

Step 3: Add the Cream and Milk

1. Pour in Cream and Milk: Slowly pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring as you go. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
2. Let Thicken: Simmer the sauce for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it begins to thicken slightly.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Season

1. Add Parmesan Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce.
2. Season with Salt and Pepper: Taste the sauce and add salt and pepper as needed. Keep in mind that Parmesan can be salty, so start with a small amount of salt and adjust as necessary.

Step 5: Combine Gnocchi and Sauce

1. Add Gnocchi to Sauce: Gently add the cooked gnocchi into the creamy sauce, stirring to coat the gnocchi evenly.
2. Simmer Together: Let the gnocchi simmer in the sauce for 2-3 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Add Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley over the dish for a pop of color and added flavor.
2. Serve with Extra Parmesan: Top with additional Parmesan cheese and freshly cracked black pepper for garnish.
3. Enjoy Immediately: This dish is best served fresh and hot. The gnocchi will absorb some of the sauce as it cools, so dig in while it’s creamy and smooth.

Serving Suggestions

• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread to scoop up every last bit of the creamy sauce.
• Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a nice contrast to the rich pasta.
• Wine Pairing: A glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creaminess of this dish well.

Tips for Perfect Creamy Spicy Gnocchi

1. Use Fresh Gnocchi if Possible: While store-bought is convenient, fresh gnocchi has a delicate texture that works well with this sauce.
2. Don’t Overcook the Gnocchi: Only cook it until it floats; overcooked gnocchi can become mushy.
3. Adjust Spice to Taste: Add more or less red pepper flakes depending on your spice preference.
4. Stir Constantly for a Smooth Sauce: To avoid lumps or curdling, keep stirring as the cream and cheese melt together.

Recipe Variations

1. Add Protein: Sautéed shrimp, grilled chicken, or crispy pancetta can add a delicious protein boost.
2. Include Vegetables: Spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted red peppers make great additions.
3. Extra Creamy: For an ultra-creamy texture, add an extra tablespoon of cream cheese or mascarpone to the sauce.

Storage and Reheating

1. Store Leftovers: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
2. Reheat Gently: Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk to keep the sauce creamy.
3. Freezing: This dish doesn’t freeze well due to the cream sauce, which can separate when thawed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
   • Yes, if you don’t have gnocchi on hand, you can use other pasta types like fettuccine or penne.
2. Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
   • Try using coconut milk or a dairy-free heavy cream substitute and skip the Parmesan or use a plant-based cheese.
3. How can I make the sauce spicier?
   • Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to increase the heat.
4. What’s the best way to thicken the sauce?
   • If your sauce isn’t thick enough, simmer it a bit longer or add a tablespoon of cream cheese for extra creaminess.
5. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
   • Yes, use gluten-free gnocchi or pasta to make it gluten-free.

Conclusion

This Creamy Spicy Gnocchi is a simple yet indulgent dish that brings a touch of elegance to the dinner table. The pillowy gnocchi paired with a bold, creamy sauce full of warmth and spice is a comforting, memorable meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re making it for a quiet night in or a small gathering, this recipe is sure to impress.

Yield: 4

Creamy Spicy Gnocchi Recipe

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If you're looking for a dinner that brings comfort, a touch of spice, and lots of creamy richness, this Creamy Spicy Gnocchi is the recipe for you. Pillowy gnocchi coated in a velvety, spicy sauce is the kind of indulgent meal that warms you from the inside out. This dish is not only delicious but also surprisingly easy to make, making it a great choice for both busy weeknights and weekend cooking adventures.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 lb potato gnocchi (fresh or store-bought)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup baby spinach (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Gnocchi:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions (usually 2-3 minutes for fresh gnocchi) until they float to the surface. Drain and set aside.
   
2. Prepare the Sauce:
   In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
   
3. Make it Creamy:
   Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts, creating a smooth and creamy sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
   
4. Add Gnocchi and Spinach:
   Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet, tossing gently to coat with the sauce. Add the spinach (if using) and cook for another 1-2 minutes until wilted and everything is heated through.
   
5. Serve:
   Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley for added freshness. Serve hot with extra Parmesan on the side if desired.

Notes

• For extra spice, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
• Substitute spinach with kale or arugula if you prefer.