This Gnocchi Alfredo is creamy and rich, made with soft potato dumplings that soak up all that cheesy goodness. It’s comfort food at its best, perfect for cozy nights in!
I find it so fun to twirl the gnocchi around my fork! Plus, it comes together quickly, making it a great last-minute dinner option. Who doesn’t love creamy pasta? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Gnocchi: You can either buy store-bought gnocchi or make it at home. If you want a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free gnocchi in stores or make your own using gluten-free flour.
Heavy Cream: This is what makes the sauce nice and rich. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or even whole milk, but know it won’t be as thick.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best for melting and flavor. If you don’t have Parmesan, try Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal to control the saltiness. You can substitute with olive oil or vegan butter if you’re dairy-free.
What’s the Best Way to Make the Creamy Alfredo Sauce?
The key to a perfect Alfredo sauce is all in the technique. Start with medium heat to avoid burning the garlic. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Melt the butter in a skillet, then add the garlic and sauté it lightly for about a minute.
- Pour in the heavy cream slowly. Stir it gently as it simmers to help it thicken a bit.
- Add grated Parmesan cheese gradually, stirring until it’s fully melted and smooth.
Keep the heat low when combining cheese to prevent it from clumping. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper before adding the gnocchi!
How to Make Gnocchi Alfredo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450 g) gnocchi: store-bought or homemade
- 2 tablespoons 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 tablespoons fresh parsley: finely chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: Fresh thyme or basil leaves for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick and easy, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option. Just boil the gnocchi, whip up the creamy sauce, and combine—dinner is served in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Gnocchi:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi to the bubbling water and cook according to package instructions. You’ll know they’re done when they float to the surface—this usually takes about 2-3 minutes for fresh gnocchi. Once cooked, drain them and set aside.
2. Prepare the Alfredo Sauce:
In a large skillet or pan over medium heat, melt the butter. As it melts, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until you can smell the garlic—be careful not to let it brown!
3. Add Cream and Cheese:
Next, pour in the heavy cream and gently bring it to a simmer. Let the mixture cook for about 2-3 minutes while stirring occasionally; this will help it thicken slightly. Now, lower the heat and add the grated Parmesan cheese gradually, stirring until it’s completely melted and the sauce is smooth. Don’t forget to season it with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste!
4. Combine Gnocchi and Sauce:
Add the cooked gnocchi to your skillet with the creamy Alfredo sauce. Gently toss the gnocchi until they’re nicely coated in the sauce—this is where all the magic happens!
5. Optional Broiling Step:
If you’re in the mood for a lightly golden top, transfer the gnocchi and sauce to an oven-safe dish and broil it for about 1-2 minutes. Keep a close eye on this step to ensure it doesn’t burn!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, remove the dish from heat. Garnish with fresh parsley and add optional thyme or basil leaves for an added touch of flavor. Serve your Gnocchi Alfredo hot and creamy—enjoy this comforting dish!
If you have any leftovers (if!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for the next day. Enjoy your delicious, creamy, cheesy Gnocchi Alfredo!
Can I Use Gluten-Free Gnocchi?
Absolutely! There are various gluten-free gnocchi options available at the store. Just follow the package instructions to ensure they are cooked perfectly. Alternatively, you can make your own gluten-free gnocchi at home using gluten-free flour!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, whole milk, or a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly with these substitutions.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to prevent drying out.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach, peas, or broccoli. Just sauté them with the garlic before adding the cream for a delicious twist on classic Gnocchi Alfredo.
