If you love comforting meals that feel like a warm hug on a plate, this Creamy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta Recipe is exactly what you need. The pillowy gnocchi paired with a luxuriously creamy feta sauce and vibrant spinach creates a perfect balance of tangy, rich, and fresh flavors that will have you coming back for seconds every time. It’s an easy yet indulgent dish that brightens up any dinner table with its beautiful colors and irresistible taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things beautifully simple, relying on fresh and wholesome ingredients that each play a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the tender gnocchi to the creamy feta and nutritious spinach, every ingredient shines and works together perfectly.
- 1 pound (500g) potato gnocchi: The soft, chewy base that soaks up all the creamy goodness.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity richness for sautéing the aromatics.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Provides a sweet, savory foundation for the sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Delivers an irresistible fragrant punch.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the silky, luscious sauce that hugs the gnocchi.
- 4 ounces (115g) crumbled feta cheese: Gives a tangy, salty depth that transforms the dish.
- 3 cups fresh spinach, washed and roughly chopped: Adds vibrant color and a fresh, slightly earthy note.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring out all flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg: A warm spice that adds subtle complexity.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts on top, adding a nutty, cheesy finish.
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish: Brightens the dish visually and flavor-wise.
How to Make Creamy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Gnocchi
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Gently drop in the potato gnocchi and cook them just until they float to the surface, which usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes. This quick cooking ensures they remain tender and light. Once they rise, drain them carefully and set aside while you prepare the sauce.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent and soft, about 5 minutes. Then stir in the minced garlic, cooking for another minute until you can smell that inviting aroma fill your kitchen. These ingredients form the savory base of your creamy sauce.
Step 3: Simmer the Cream
Reduce the heat slightly and pour in the heavy cream. Stir it gently and let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes. This step helps the cream thicken just enough without losing its silky texture, setting the stage for adding the cheese and spinach.
Step 4: Incorporate Feta Cheese
Next, add the crumbled feta cheese straight into the simmering cream. Stir continuously as the feta melts into the sauce, lending it a wonderful tanginess and creamy consistency that makes this dish so irresistible.
Step 5: Wilt the Spinach
Add the fresh chopped spinach to the skillet and cook it for 2 to 3 minutes until it’s perfectly wilted. The spinach not only boosts the color but also adds a fresh, delicate flavor that balances the richness of the sauce.
Step 6: Season the Sauce
Sprinkle in salt, freshly ground black pepper, and nutmeg. These seasonings elevate every bite, with nutmeg adding a warm, subtle depth of flavor. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if you feel it needs a little more punch.
Step 7: Combine Gnocchi with Sauce
Now carefully add the cooked gnocchi back into the skillet. Gently stir to coat each pillowy piece thoroughly with the creamy feta and spinach sauce. This step is key to making sure every gnocchi bite is bursting with flavor.
Step 8: Add Parmesan Cheese
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the gnocchi and sauce, letting it melt slightly. This adds a nutty richness and delicious finish that really takes the dish to the next level.
Step 9: Garnish and Serve
Finish off by garnishing with freshly chopped parsley to bring a pop of bright green color and a fresh herbal zing. Serve immediately while it’s still warm, creamy, and utterly delicious.
How to Serve Creamy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh parsley is a classic choice, but you can also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or add toasted pine nuts for a delightful crunch. These small touches can elevate your presentation and introduce complementary textures and flavors.
Side Dishes
This creamy gnocchi pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Roasted vegetables such as asparagus or cherry tomatoes also make perfect companions, adding freshness and variety to your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this dish in shallow bowls to showcase the vibrant colors and creamy texture. For a cozy dinner party, dish it out family-style in a rustic skillet straight to the table, inviting everyone to dig in and share the warmth together.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Because the sauce thickens as it cools, you might find it a little dense when reheated, but it still tastes fantastic.
Freezing
This Creamy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta Recipe is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze leftovers for up to one month. Freeze in a sealed container, leaving some space for expansion. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
Warm leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave at short intervals. Add a splash of milk or cream when reheating to loosen the sauce and keep it creamy. Stir frequently to avoid sticking or drying out.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding to the sauce to avoid excess moisture that could dilute the creaminess.
Is there a substitute for feta cheese?
Feta gives this dish its signature tanginess, but if you’re not a fan, goat cheese or ricotta can be good alternatives, though they will alter the flavor slightly.
Can I make this dish vegan?
To make a vegan version, swap the cream for coconut cream or cashew cream, use vegan feta-style cheese, and choose vegan gnocchi. The flavors will change, but it can still be delicious!
What type of gnocchi works best?
Potato gnocchi is ideal because of its soft texture and mild flavor, but you can experiment with sweet potato gnocchi for a heartier twist.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
Let the cream simmer a little longer before adding the cheese or stir in a small spoonful of cream cheese to thicken it up more quickly and add extra creaminess.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta Recipe is one of those dishes that feels special, yet comes together effortlessly. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner or a cozy meal for guests where you want to impress without the fuss. Give it a try, and I promise its comforting flavors and creamy textures will soon become a beloved favorite in your recipe box.
