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Creamy One-Pan Tomato Basil Gnocchi with Baby Spinach

creamy one-pan tomato basil gnocchi - featured image
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A quick and easy one-pan meal where potato gnocchi cooks directly in a creamy tomato basil sauce with fresh baby spinach, delivering a cozy and satisfying dinner with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup tomato sauce (marinara or passata, no added sugar)
  • 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (can substitute coconut cream for dairy-free)
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, loosely packed and chopped
  • 3 cups baby spinach (about 3 ounces)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat for about 3 minutes until shimmering.
  2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
  3. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and juices release. If using canned tomatoes, add them now with their juices.
  4. Pour in the tomato sauce and broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for about 5 minutes.
  5. Add the gnocchi in a single layer, gently pressing them into the sauce. Cover and simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring gently halfway through to prevent sticking. Gnocchi should float when cooked.
  6. Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, mixing until the sauce turns creamy and coats the gnocchi. Let it gently bubble for 2 minutes.
  7. Fold in the baby spinach and chopped basil, stirring until the spinach wilts and basil releases aroma (about 1-2 minutes). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Remove from heat and serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan if desired.

Notes

If the sauce thickens too much before the gnocchi are done, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it. Stir gently to avoid breaking the gnocchi. For vegan adaptation, use coconut milk or cashew cream instead of heavy cream and omit Parmesan or use vegan cheese. Frozen gnocchi can be used with slightly longer cooking time. Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent sticking.

Nutrition

Keywords: one-pan meal, gnocchi, tomato basil, creamy sauce, baby spinach, quick dinner, easy recipe, weeknight meal

Find it online: https://sunnysavory.com/creamy-one-pan-tomato-basil-gnocchi-with-baby-spinach-easy-recipe/