Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi (20 Minutes, ONE-PAN) Recipe

Introduction

Get a restaurant-quality dinner on the table in no time with this Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi. This one-pan wonder is packed with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and a rich, garlicky parmesan sauce, delivering incredible flavor in just 20 minutes. It’s a perfect weeknight solution that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly simple to make. For another easy gnocchi dinner, try this Easy One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie Recipe.

Ingredients

This one-pan Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi comes together with a vibrant mix of tender spinach, briny artichokes, and sweet sun-dried tomatoes, all enveloped in a rich, herb-infused cream sauce.

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 oz sun-dried tomatoes packed in olive oil, drained and chopped
• 16 oz potato gnocchi
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or Herbs de Provence
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 5 oz fresh spinach
• 7 oz canned artichoke hearts, chopped
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes, to taste
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves

Timing

Prep Time	5 minutes
Cook Time	15 minutes
Total Time	20 minutes

Context: This streamlined one-pan method makes this Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi with Vegetables about 30% faster than similar stovetop-to-oven recipes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather and measure all ingredients: gnocchi, fresh spinach, marinated artichoke hearts (drained and chopped), sun-dried tomatoes (julienned), minced garlic, vegetable broth, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan. This one-pan meatless meal comes together quickly, so having everything ready is key.

Step 2 — Sauté the Aromatics

Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil from the sun-dried tomato jar or a neutral oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30-60 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.

Step 3 — Build the Creamy Tuscan Sauce Base

Pour in the vegetable broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.

Step 4 — Cook the Gnocchi

Add the gnocchi directly to the simmering sauce. Gently stir to coat. Cover the pan and let it cook for about 5 minutes, or until the gnocchi are tender and have floated to the top. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5 — Add the Vegetables

Once the gnocchi are cooked, stir in the chopped artichokes and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until they are heated through. This is when the classic Tuscan flavors really start to meld.

Step 6 — Wilt the Spinach and Finish

Turn off the heat. Add the fresh spinach in handfuls, stirring until it wilts into the warm, creamy sauce. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is luxuriously creamy. Taste and season with salt and black pepper as needed.

Step 7 — Serve Immediately

Your Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi with Vegetables is ready! Serve it directly from the pan while hot. For a restaurant-style touch, garnish with extra Parmesan, a crack of black pepper, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley.

Nutritional Information

Calories	~480 kcal
Protein	~14 g
Carbohydrates	~58 g
Fat	~22 g
Fiber	~7 g
Sodium	~980 mg

Note: Estimates are for one serving of this one-pan Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi with Vegetables and can vary based on specific brands and ingredient quantities used.

Healthier Alternatives

This Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi with Vegetables is wonderfully adaptable. Here are simple swaps to tailor it to your dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.

• Protein Boost — Add 1 cup of rinsed canned chickpeas or white beans with the gnocchi for a hearty, plant-based protein lift.
• Lower-Carb Option — Swap potato gnocchi for cauliflower gnocchi. Sauté it a bit longer to get a golden sear and reduce excess moisture.
• Gluten-Free — Use certified gluten-free gnocchi. Most store-bought sun-dried tomatoes and artichokes are naturally GF, but always check labels.
• Dairy-Free Creaminess — Replace heavy cream with full-fat canned coconut milk or a plain, unsweetened cashew cream for a rich, velvety sauce.
• Lower-Sodium — Opt for no-salt-added vegetable broth, use fresh artichoke hearts instead of jarred, and choose sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil without added salt.
• Extra Greens — Double the spinach or mix in chopped kale or Swiss chard for an added nutrient punch and vibrant color.
• Lighter Sauce — For a lighter version, use half heavy cream and half broth, or blend 1/2 cup of soaked raw cashews with 1 cup of water until completely smooth.
• Herb Refresh — Stir in a handful of fresh basil or parsley just before serving for a bright, aromatic finish that complements the sun-dried tomatoes.

Serving Suggestions

• For a complete Italian-inspired spread, pair this Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi with a simple Arugula Salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette and a basket of warm, crusty bread for dipping into the luxurious sauce.
• This one-pan meal is perfect for casual weeknight dinners, but its vibrant colors and rich flavors also make it an excellent choice for a meatless meal to impress guests at a dinner party.
• Elevate the plating by serving the gnocchi in a shallow bowl, garnishing with extra fresh basil, a sprinkle of vegan or regular Parmesan, and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil.
• To add a contrasting texture, consider topping each portion with toasted pine nuts or a handful of garlicky homemade croutons for a delightful crunch.
• For a heartier occasion, it pairs beautifully with a side of roasted asparagus or grilled zucchini, keeping the focus on garden-fresh vegetables.
• This quick 20-minute recipe is ideal for busy evenings when you need a comforting, restaurant-quality dish without the fuss or a pile of dishes.
• Serve it family-style in the same skillet it was cooked in for a rustic, inviting presentation that highlights the convenience of this one-pan wonder.

Whether for a fast family dinner or a special vegetarian feast, this creamy gnocchi with spinach, artichokes, and sun-dried tomatoes is a versatile crowd-pleaser.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using fresh gnocchi that disintegrates in the sauce. Fix: Opt for shelf-stable potato gnocchi, which holds its shape better during the quick simmer.
• Mistake: Adding raw garlic to hot oil and burning it. Fix: Sauté the garlic for just 30 seconds until fragrant before adding other ingredients.
• Mistake: Overcrowding the pan, which steams vegetables instead of sautéing. Fix: Use a large, wide skillet to ensure everything cooks evenly and gets a slight sear.
• Mistake: Using heavy cream that curdles or separates. Fix: Bring the cream to a gentle simmer, never a rolling boil, and stir constantly as you incorporate it.
• Mistake: Adding sun-dried tomatoes in oil without draining, making the dish greasy. Fix: Always pat them dry with a paper towel to concentrate their flavor.
• Mistake: Throwing in frozen spinach without thawing, which waters down the creamy sauce. Fix: Thaw and thoroughly squeeze out all excess liquid from the spinach first.
• Mistake: Underseasoning the sauce, as gnocchi absorbs flavor. Fix: Season the sauce generously with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs before adding the gnocchi.
• Mistake: Overcooking the gnocchi until it becomes mushy. Fix: Add it last and simmer just until it floats and is heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
• Mistake: Using marinated artichoke hearts that are too acidic. Fix: Rinse canned or jarred artichoke hearts briefly to mellow their tang before adding.
• Mistake: Skipping the final touch of fresh herbs or cheese. Fix: Finish with a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley and a grating of Parmesan to brighten the rich dish.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Cool the creamy Tuscan gnocchi completely, then transfer to an airtight container. It will keep well for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Note that the creamy sauce may separate slightly upon thawing but will re-emulsify when stirred during reheating.
• Reheat: Gently reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or milk to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave in a covered dish, stirring every 30 seconds until piping hot. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.

For the best texture, enjoy this one-pan meatless meal fresh. The gnocchi will soften further upon storage, but the rich flavors of spinach, artichokes, and sun-dried tomatoes will remain delicious.

Conclusion

This Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi with Vegetables is the ultimate 20-minute, one-pan meatless meal. We hope you love this easy dinner! If you try it, please leave a comment or rating. For another fantastic one-pot gnocchi dish, check out our Easy One Pot Gnocchi Chicken Pot Pie Recipe. Don’t forget to subscribe for more quick and delicious recipes!

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FAQs

Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?

Yes, frozen gnocchi works perfectly. Add it directly to the pan from frozen, but you may need to extend the cooking time by a minute or two to ensure it is heated through and tender. This one-pan method keeps the dish quick and easy.

How can I make this Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi with Vegetables dairy-free?

For a dairy-free version, substitute the cream with full-fat canned coconut milk or a plain, unsweetened plant-based cream. The rich sauce will still coat the spinach, artichokes, and sun-dried tomatoes beautifully for a satisfying meatless meal.

What can I use instead of sun-dried tomatoes?

If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes, you can use roasted red peppers or a tablespoon of tomato paste for a different but still flavorful twist. The dish will remain a vibrant and creamy Tuscan gnocchi packed with vegetables.