Romantic Spinach and Parmesan Gnocchi

Name: Romantic Spinach and Parmesan Gnocchi
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups mashed potatoes; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 egg; 2 cups fresh spinach, blanched and chopped; 1 teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon nutmeg; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup grated parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Simple Ideas

I absolutely adore making gnocchi at home, especially this Romantic Spinach and Parmesan Gnocchi. The combination of tender, pillowy gnocchi with the earthy spinach and rich parmesan creates a dish that feels indulgent yet comforting. This recipe is perfect for intimate dinners or special occasions, and I can't wait to share it with you. The bright flavors come together beautifully, making every bite a delightful experience. Join me in bringing a touch of romance to your dinner table with this easy-to-follow recipe!

Created by

Etta Langton

Last updated on 2026-01-11T15:49:35.743Z

When I first tried making gnocchi from scratch, I was both excited and a bit intimidated. However, after a few attempts, I realized that it’s all about getting the dough just right. Adding fresh spinach not only brings a vibrant color but also a wonderful depth of flavor. I typically use a mix of mashed potatoes and ricotta to achieve a soft texture that melts in your mouth.

One of my favorite parts of this dish is the creamy sauce I pair it with, made from butter, garlic, and parmesan. The key is to incorporate the cheese slowly to allow it to melt perfectly without clumping. Trust me; this is a dish that will impress anyone at your dinner table!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Pillowy gnocchi with a touch of spinach and parmesan
Perfectly paired with a rich, creamy sauce
Simple yet elegant for a romantic dinner

      

The Heart of Gnocchi: Ingredients that Matter

The choice of potatoes in your gnocchi can dramatically affect the texture. For the best results, use starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds. They yield a fluffier gnocchi, while waxy varieties can lead to a denser result. When mashing, ensure there are no lumps, as they can interfere with even cooking and result in an uneven texture.

Ricotta cheese adds a lightness and creaminess to the dough, balancing the starchiness of the potatoes. Opt for whole-milk ricotta for a richer taste, or a part-skim version if you're looking to reduce calories. Make sure to drain any excess liquid to avoid a soggy dough, which can make shaping gnocchi challenging.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To correctly cook the gnocchi, keep an eye on the temperature of the boiling water. It should be at a rolling boil before adding the gnocchi; this ensures they cook evenly. The moment they float to the top—usually within 2-3 minutes—they’re done. Overcooking can lead to mushiness, so use a slotted spoon to transfer them carefully, allowing them to drain well.

After boiling, consider skipping the rinse as it can remove the starch needed for sauce adhesion. Instead, directly add the gnocchi to your creamy sauce, allowing them to absorb some flavor while heating through. This not only enhances the taste but also gives your dish a cohesive texture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make the gnocchi:

Gnocchi Ingredients

2 cups mashed potatoes
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 egg
2 cups fresh spinach, blanched and chopped
1 teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon nutmeg

Creamy Sauce Ingredients

3 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking.

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Romantic Spinach and Parmesan Gnocchi:

Prepare the Gnocchi Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, egg, salt, and nutmeg. Gradually add the flour until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overwork it.

Shape the Gnocchi

Dust a clean surface with flour and divide the dough into four pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope about ¾ inch thick. Cut into 1-inch pieces and use a fork to create ridges on each gnocchi for better sauce adherence.

Cook the Gnocchi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and sauté the garlic until fragrant. Add the heavy cream and simmer for about 5 minutes. Gradually stir in the parmesan until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet with the sauce and gently toss to coat. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley.

Enjoy your homemade Romantic Spinach and Parmesan Gnocchi!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for subtle heat.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you have leftover gnocchi, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them directly in a skillet with a little extra sauce over medium heat, gently tossing to warm them through. Avoid microwaving, as it can cause them to become gummy and unevenly heated.

To freeze gnocchi, lay them out on a baking sheet in a single layer until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. This prevents them from sticking together. They can be cooked straight from frozen in boiling water, increasing cooking time by a few minutes.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with the filling of your gnocchi! Adding other greens like kale or herbs such as basil or parsley can bring a fresh twist to the traditional recipe. For a more decadent touch, incorporate some crumbled bacon or sautéed mushrooms into the sauce.

For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour mix. Keep in mind that gluten-free dough may be more delicate, so handle it with care and consider refrigerating the dough for 30 minutes before shaping to help it firm up.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen gnocchi. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a little bit of butter.

→ Can I make the gnocchi dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before shaping and cooking.

→ What other sauces can I use with gnocchi?

Gnocchi pairs well with a variety of sauces, including marinara, pesto, or a simple olive oil and garlic sauce.