Gnocchi Alfredo is a creamy and comforting dish made with soft potato gnocchi and a rich Alfredo sauce. It’s like a warm hug on a plate!
This dish comes together quickly, perfect for a busy night. I love adding a sprinkle of parmesan on top for that extra cheesy goodness. You’ll definitely want seconds! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potato Gnocchi: You can use store-bought gnocchi for convenience or make homemade if you’re feeling adventurous. If gluten is a concern, look for gluten-free gnocchi made from rice or other alternatives.
Butter: Unsalted butter is great for control over seasoning. If you prefer a dairy-free option, you can use vegan butter or olive oil instead.
Heavy Cream: This adds creaminess to the sauce. However, if you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or even a non-dairy milk (like cashew or coconut milk) can work, but it may change the flavor slightly.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan provides the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, Pecorino Romano can be a good substitute, or nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative will give a cheesy flavor without dairy.
How Do You Make the Sauce Creamy and Smooth?
The key to a delicious creamy Alfredo sauce is the gradual incorporation of cheese into the heavy cream. Start with your butter and garlic – just sauté until it’s aromatic, then add cream and let it simmer until it thickens.
- Stir the cream continuously to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- When adding Parmesan, do it a little at a time. Stir continuously so it melts evenly and prevents clumping.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper after the cheese has melted for the best flavor balance.
How to Make Gnocchi Alfredo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450 g) potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Red pepper flakes, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Gnocchi Alfredo recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and around 5 minutes of cooking. In total, you’ll spend about 20 minutes bringing this creamy delight to the table. So it’s perfect for a quick and delicious meal any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Gnocchi:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the gnocchi. Follow the package instructions, but generally, they will cook for about 2-3 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they float to the surface. Drain them and set aside.
2. Sautéing Garlic:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Next, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. Make sure not to let it brown, as burnt garlic can be bitter!
3. Making the Cream Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes, while stirring occasionally, until it starts to thicken slightly. This is the base of your rich Alfredo sauce!
4. Adding Parmesan:
Reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until it melts into a smooth sauce. Remember to taste and add salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking.
5. Combining Gnocchi and Sauce:
Now, add the cooked gnocchi to the Alfredo sauce. Gently toss everything together until the gnocchi are warmly coated in the creamy sauce.
6. Serving:
Remove the skillet from the heat. Serve your Gnocchi Alfredo immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. For extra cheesiness, feel free to top with more Parmesan before serving!
Enjoy your creamy, cheesy Gnocchi Alfredo! It’s a delightful dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Can I Use Frozen Gnocchi for This Recipe?
Yes! Frozen gnocchi can be used directly in this recipe. Just add them to boiling water and cook until they float, which usually takes a few extra minutes compared to fresh gnocchi.
How Can I Make This Recipe Lighter?
If you want a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mix of milk and a little cornstarch to thicken the sauce. You could also use less cheese or a low-fat cheese option.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Gnocchi Alfredo?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce, and warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Can I Add Vegetables or Protein to This Dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add spinach, peas, or cooked chicken for extra flavor and nutrition. Just mix them in with the gnocchi and sauce in the final step to heat through before serving.
