Millionaire Gnocchi with Creamy Sauce Recipe
Millionaire Gnocchi with Creamy Sauce is a rich, decadent Italian-inspired dish featuring pillowy potato gnocchi pan-seared to golden perfection and coated in a luscious garlic-Parmesan cream sauce infused with rosemary and a hint of red pepper flakes. Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for an elevated weeknight dinner or an elegant date night indulgence.
- Author: liam
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Gnocchi
For the Sauce and Cooking
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Pan-Sear the Gnocchi: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the potato gnocchi in a single layer and cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until they develop a golden crispy crust. Flip each gnocchi and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the other side is also golden. Remove the gnocchi from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Garlic: Using the same skillet, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds just until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Make the Cream Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and add the sprig of fresh rosemary. Let the mixture simmer for 3 to 4 minutes so the sauce thickens slightly and the flavors meld together.
- Season the Sauce: Remove the rosemary sprig and add the red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to taste. Adjust seasonings according to your preference to balance the richness with a slight heat and herbaceous notes.
- Toss Gnocchi in Sauce: Return the seared gnocchi to the skillet and gently toss them in the cream sauce until fully coated and heated through.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top to add a fresh pop of color and brightness before serving immediately while the sauce is warm and velvety.
Notes
- Use shelf-stable gnocchi for the best results when pan-searing to achieve a crispy texture.
- For extra indulgence, sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top and broil briefly for a golden cheesy finish.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.
- A dairy-free variation can be made using full-fat coconut milk, vegan butter, and dairy-free Parmesan-style cheese.
- If you prefer baking over pan-frying, toss gnocchi in olive oil and bake at 425°F for about 20 minutes before adding to the sauce, though crispiness will be less pronounced.
Keywords: creamy gnocchi, millionaire gnocchi, easy gnocchi dinner, skillet gnocchi, garlic parmesan gnocchi