Creamy, comforting, and ready in about 20 minutes, this Creamy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta combines pillowy potato gnocchi with a tangy, silky feta-cream sauce and bright wilted spinach — perfect for an easy weeknight meal or a cozy dinner.
introduction
This dish balances rich cream and tangy feta with the freshness of spinach and the soft texture of gnocchi. It’s simple enough for a quick supper but elegant enough to serve guests. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a great recipe to keep in rotation when you want something satisfying without fuss.
why make this recipe
- Fast: Gnocchi cooks quickly and the sauce comes together in minutes.
- Flavorful: Feta adds a tangy depth that brightens the creamy sauce.
- Simple pantry staples: Uses a short list of ingredients you may already have.
- Versatile: Easy to adapt—add proteins or vegetables to suit your preference.
how to make Creamy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta
Begin by cooking the gnocchi according to package directions so it’s hot and ready to absorb the sauce. Sauté garlic briefly in olive oil, then add the spinach and wilt it gently. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer before stirring in crumbled feta so it melts into a rich, slightly tangy sauce. Toss the drained gnocchi into the skillet and coat gently, finishing with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately with grated Parmesan if you like a sharper finish.
Ingredients :
- 1 package gnocchi
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Directions :
- Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the crumbled feta cheese until melted and combined.
- Add cooked gnocchi to the skillet, gently tossing to coat in the creamy sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
how to serve Creamy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta
Serve straight from the skillet while hot. Pair with:
- A crisp green salad or arugula with lemon vinaigrette to cut the richness.
- Toasted garlic bread or crusty Italian bread to soak up the sauce.
- A light protein on the side (grilled shrimp or pan-seared chicken) if you want more substance.
how to store Creamy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta
- Refrigerator: Cool to room temperature, transfer to an airtight container, and refrigerate up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.
- Freezing: Not ideal for best texture—gnocchi can become gummy when frozen and thawed. If needed, freeze in a tight container for up to 1 month and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
tips to make Creamy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta
- Don’t overcook gnocchi; they’re done when they float. Overcooking makes them mushy.
- Crumble the feta finely so it melts evenly into the cream.
- If the sauce is too thick, whisk in a splash of pasta water, milk, or extra cream to reach desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust seasoning after adding feta since it can be salty.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half and a small slurry of cornstarch to thicken if needed.
variation (if any)
- Add sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for sweetness and color.
- Stir in cooked mushrooms or wilted kale instead of spinach for a different flavor.
- Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage for a heartier main.
- Swap feta for goat cheese for a creamier, tangier finish.
FAQ
Q: Can I use frozen spinach?
A: Yes — thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding so the sauce doesn’t become watery.
Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Use a plant-based cream and a dairy-free feta alternative; texture and flavor will differ but it will still be enjoyable.
Q: How can I get a bit of crisp on the gnocchi?
A: After boiling and draining, pan-sear the gnocchi in a little olive oil until lightly golden before adding them to the sauce.
Conclusion
If you’d like a version with a crisped gnocchi finish and additional inspiration, check this Crispy Gnocchi With Spinach and Feta Recipe for techniques and ideas.
Creamy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta
Ingredients
Method
- Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the crumbled feta cheese until melted and combined.
- Add cooked gnocchi to the skillet, gently tossing to coat in the creamy sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
