The scent of sundried tomatoes and garlic wafting through my kitchen always brings back memories of cozy evenings spent cooking with friends. Inspired by the popular “marry me chicken,” I decided to create a vegetarian version that could boast just as much charm and flavor—enter my Creamy Sundried Tomato “Marry Me” Gnocchi! This dish is the perfect solution for anyone looking to impress their loved ones without spending hours slaving away in the kitchen.
Ready in just 30 minutes, the crispy gnocchi pairs beautifully with a luscious, creamy sauce that’s bursting with Italian flavors. Imagine diving into a bowl of this comforting pasta, where every bite melds the richness of heavy cream with the tangy notes of sundried tomatoes. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner or simply craving a hearty meal after a long day, this quick and indulgent dish is sure to delight both the palate and the heart. So grab your ingredients, and let’s make magic happen in the kitchen!
Why is Creamy Sundried Tomato “Marry Me” Gnocchi irresistible?
Speedy Preparation: In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a dish that’s perfect for a date night or a cozy dinner at home.
Delectable Flavor: The rich combination of heavy cream, sundried tomatoes, and garlic creates an enchanting sauce that’s hard to resist.
Crispy Gnocchi: The pan-fried gnocchi offers a delightful contrast in texture, providing both chewiness and crunch in every bite.
Veggie-Packed Goodness: With added spinach, this dish not only tastes amazing but also adds some health benefits, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
Endless Versatility: Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or cheese, making it suitable for various dietary preferences—consider making it vegan with my tips here!
Get ready to impress everyone at the table with this comforting, flavorful dish that really does make hearts swoon!
Creamy Sundried Tomato “Marry Me” Gnocchi Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need for this delightful dish!
For the Gnocchi
• Gnocchi – The base of this dish; provides a soft and chewy texture. Substitute with any short pasta if preferred.
For the Sauce
• Red Onion – Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce; can be replaced with yellow onion.
• Garlic – Provides a robust flavor; fresh garlic is best for a more vibrant taste.
• Red Pepper or Chili Flakes – Offers heat to the dish; adjust according to spice preference.
• Mixed Italian Seasoning – Enhances flavor with herbs; fresh herbs like basil and oregano can be used instead.
• Sundried Tomatoes – Key flavor component; gives a rich, tangy taste. Use jarred in oil for best results.
• Tomato Paste – Adds thickness and concentrated tomato flavor to the sauce.
• Vegetable Broth – Provides liquid for sauce consistency; low-sodium broth is an option to control saltiness.
• Heavy Cream – Creates the creamy texture of the sauce; for a lighter version, use half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative.
• Parmesan-Style Cheese – Adds richness and a savory flavor; nutritional yeast can be used as a vegan alternative.
• Basil – Fresh herb that brightens the dish; substitute with dried basil if necessary.
• Baby Spinach – Adds health benefits and color to the dish; can also use kale or any leafy green.
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, you’re just a few steps away from creating a delicious Creamy Sundried Tomato “Marry Me” Gnocchi that is sure to impress!
How to Make Creamy Sundried Tomato “Marry Me” Gnocchi
Sauté Onions and Garlic: Begin by heating olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the diced red onion and sauté until they become soft and translucent, around 5 minutes. Then, mix in the minced garlic, chili flakes, Italian seasoning, and sundried tomatoes, cooking until the flavors meld beautifully—about 2 minutes.
Combine Tomato Components: Stir in the tomato paste until well combined, then pour in the vegetable broth. Allow the mixture to simmer gently while you prepare the gnocchi. This enhances the flavors; let it bubble away for about 5-7 minutes.
Pan-Fry Gnocchi: In a separate skillet, heat a little oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the gnocchi and fry until they are crispy and golden brown on all sides, which should take about 10 minutes. Your kitchen will smell divine during this step!
Finish Sauce: Pour the heavy cream into the tomato mixture and sprinkle in the grated cheese, stirring until everything is melted and smoothly combined. Toss in the baby spinach and fresh basil, allowing them to wilt for just 1-2 minutes.
Combine and Serve: Gently toss the crispy gnocchi in the creamy sauce until they are well coated. Plate up this gorgeous dish immediately and relish the moment with your loved ones!
Optional: Top with extra basil or a sprinkle of cheese for an inviting finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Sundried Tomato “Marry Me” Gnocchi
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the dish completely before sealing to avoid moisture buildup.
Freezer: For freezing, place the cooled gnocchi and sauce in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 2 months but is best enjoyed fresh.
Reheating: To reheat, gently warm the gnocchi in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or cream to revive its creamy texture. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the gnocchi rubbery.
Assembling Fresh: If you choose to freeze the components separately, cook the gnocchi fresh when you’re ready to enjoy the Creamy Sundried Tomato “Marry Me” Gnocchi for the best texture and flavor.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Sundried Tomato “Marry Me” Gnocchi are an ideal meal prep dish for those busy weeknights or spontaneous dinner parties! You can prepare the sauce up to 3 days ahead by sautéing the onions, garlic, and sundried tomatoes, then mixing in the tomato paste, broth, cream, and cheese, before refrigerating it in an airtight container. The gnocchi can be pan-fried and stored separately for up to 24 hours to maintain their crispiness. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce gently on the stove, adding the wilted spinach and fresh basil, and sauté the gnocchi until crispy again. This way, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal at your fingertips with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Creamy Sundried Tomato “Marry Me” Gnocchi
- Flavor Boost: Use oil from the jar of sundried tomatoes to sauté for an extra layer of flavor.
- Crispy Perfection: Fry gnocchi over medium-high heat and give them space in the pan to ensure even crispiness without steaming.
- Thickening Trick: Adjust the sauce’s thickness by gradually adding vegetable broth or cream until your desired consistency is reached.
- Freshness Matters: Always opt for fresh garlic and herbs to elevate the dish; they make a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Storage Solutions: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container and reheat gently to preserve the gnocchi’s delightful texture.
Creamy Sundried Tomato Variations
Customize this comforting dish to suit your taste buds or dietary needs with these simple adaptations!
Veggie-Loaded: Add sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to boost nutritious content and flavor.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or more chili flakes for an extra heat level that enhances the dish’s richness.
Gluten-Free: Swap out the gnocchi for gluten-free pasta to cater to gluten sensitivities while still enjoying a delicious meal.
Vegan Delight: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream and skip the cheese for a wonderfully creamy vegan version.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like feta for a tangy twist or ricotta for creaminess to change up flavor profiles.
Herb Infusion: Try fresh rosemary or thyme instead of basil to introduce aromatics that give a unique flavor to the sauce.
Nutty Flavor: Add toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a delightful crunch and extra depth in every bite.
Lemon Zing: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy sauce.
What to Serve with Creamy Sundried Tomato “Marry Me” Gnocchi?
Creating a memorable meal is all about the perfect pairings that elevate every taste and texture on your plate.
Garlic Bread: The warm, crispy texture of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the luscious sundried tomato sauce.
Mixed Green Salad: A vibrant salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch, balancing the creaminess of the dish while introducing fresh greens.
Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted veggies bring out an earthy flavor that complements the richness of the gnocchi, offering satisfying bites and beautiful presentation.
Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus drizzled with lemon butter not only enhances the meal’s aesthetic but its vibrant flavor cuts through the rich sauce beautifully.
Wine Pairing: A glass of crisp Pinot Grigio creates a lovely contrast, its refreshing acidity balances the creamy sauce perfectly.
Lemon Sorbet: An enchanting dessert option that provides a light, refreshing end to your meal, cleansing the palate with a burst of citrus.
Homemade Bruschetta: Topped with fresh tomatoes and basil, this appetizer is a delightful way to kick off the meal while keeping Italian flavors alive.
When paired wisely, each of these suggestions will create an inviting and fulfilling dining experience that transforms your Creamy Sundried Tomato “Marry Me” Gnocchi into an unforgettable feast!
Creamy Sundried Tomato “Marry Me” Gnocchi Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ripeness of sundried tomatoes?
Absolutely! When selecting sundried tomatoes, look for those that are plump and packed in oil. Avoid the ones that are too dry or have dark spots all over, as they can lack flavor. The oil-soaked variety provides a richer taste, making your creamy sauce truly sing.
How should I store leftover Creamy Sundried Tomato “Marry Me” Gnocchi?
Very good question! Store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool the dish completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup, which keeps your gnocchi from becoming soggy.
Can I freeze Creamy Sundried Tomato “Marry Me” Gnocchi?
Definitely! To freeze, first let the dish cool completely. Transfer the gnocchi and sauce into a freezer-safe container and it can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, reheat gently in a skillet, adding a little vegetable broth or cream to maintain the creamy consistency.
What if my sauce is too thick or too runny?
If your sauce is too thick, simply add more vegetable broth or cream a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too runny, simmer the sauce without the lid to reduce it down, allowing some of the liquid to evaporate for a thicker texture.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! This dish can easily be made vegetarian and vegan by substituting heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative and using nutritional yeast instead of cheese. Always check the labels on your vegetable broth and sundried tomatoes to ensure they align with any dietary restrictions or allergies you might have.
Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?
You sure can! Frozen gnocchi saves you some prep time. Simply follow the package instructions for cooking. If using frozen, do not thaw them beforehand; add them directly to the skillet with the oil for frying. This keeps them from becoming mushy and ensures they get that delightful crispy texture!
Delicious Creamy Sundried Tomato Gnocchi for Date Night Bliss
Equipment
- - Large saucepan
- - Skillet
Ingredients
For the Gnocchi
- 1 pound Gnocchi Substitute with any short pasta if preferred.
For the Sauce
- 1 medium Red Onion Can be replaced with yellow onion.
- 3 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic is best for a more vibrant taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper or Chili Flakes Adjust according to spice preference.
- 1 teaspoon Mixed Italian Seasoning Fresh herbs like basil and oregano can be used instead.
- 1/2 cup Sundried Tomatoes Use jarred in oil for best results.
- 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste
- 1 cup Vegetable Broth Low-sodium broth is an option to control saltiness.
- 1 cup Heavy Cream For a lighter version, use half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan-Style Cheese Nutritional yeast can be used as a vegan alternative.
- 1/4 cup Basil Substitute with dried basil if necessary.
- 2 cups Baby Spinach Can also use kale or any leafy green.
Instructions
- Begin by heating olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the diced red onion and sauté until they become soft and translucent, around 5 minutes. Then, mix in the minced garlic, chili flakes, Italian seasoning, and sundried tomatoes, cooking until the flavors meld beautifully—about 2 minutes.
- Stir in the tomato paste until well combined, then pour in the vegetable broth. Allow the mixture to simmer gently while you prepare the gnocchi. This enhances the flavors; let it bubble away for about 5-7 minutes.
- In a separate skillet, heat a little oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the gnocchi and fry until they are crispy and golden brown on all sides, which should take about 10 minutes.
- Pour the heavy cream into the tomato mixture and sprinkle in the grated cheese, stirring until everything is melted and smoothly combined. Toss in the baby spinach and fresh basil, allowing them to wilt for just 1-2 minutes.
- Gently toss the crispy gnocchi in the creamy sauce until they are well coated. Plate up this gorgeous dish immediately and relish the moment with your loved ones!