Name: Creamy Sundried Tomato “Marry Me” Gnocchi
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 18 oz (500 g) gnocchi, or another short pasta shape; ½ red onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic; 1 pinch red pepper or chili flakes, to taste; 2 teaspoons mixed Italian seasoning; ⅓ cup (140 g) sundried tomatoes, chopped; 2 tablespoons tomato paste (purée); ⅔ cup (160 ml) vegetable broth; ⅔ cup (160 ml) heavy (double) cream; ¾ cup (80 g) parmesan-style cheese, grated; 1 small bunch basil, chopped; 1–2 handfuls baby spinach, chopped; Olive oil (preferably from the sundried tomato jar)

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This Creamy Sundried Tomato “Marry Me” Gnocchi is a rich, comforting dish bursting with bold flavors. With golden pan-fried gnocchi tossed in a luscious tomato cream sauce, infused with garlic, herbs, sundried tomatoes, and finished with parmesan, spinach, and basil, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner that feels gourmet but comes together with simple ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-pan style creamy comfort food that’s easy to make
Pan-fried gnocchi for a crisp outside and soft, pillowy center
Bursting with sundried tomato, garlic, and herb flavors
Flexible recipe—swap gnocchi for pasta if desired
Elegant enough for date night, yet simple enough for weeknights

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

18 oz (500 g) gnocchi, or another short pasta shape
½ red onion, diced
3 cloves garlic
1 pinch red pepper or chili flakes, to taste
2 teaspoons mixed Italian seasoning
⅓ cup (140 g) sundried tomatoes, chopped
2 tablespoons tomato paste (purée)
⅔ cup (160 ml) vegetable broth
⅔ cup (160 ml) heavy (double) cream
¾ cup (80 g) parmesan-style cheese, grated
1 small bunch basil, chopped
1–2 handfuls baby spinach, chopped
olive oil (preferably from the sundried tomato jar)

Directions

In a large deep saucepan, heat olive oil over low-medium heat. Sauté onions until soft.
Add garlic, red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and sundried tomatoes. Cook for a few minutes until fragrant.
Stir in tomato paste and sauté for 2 minutes. Pour in vegetable broth, cover partially, and simmer to reduce slightly into a thick sauce.
In a separate pan, heat olive oil over low-medium heat. Pan-fry the gnocchi until golden and crisp on the outside but soft inside, about 10 minutes.
Return to the sauce pan and stir in cream and parmesan. Cook gently until cheese melts into the sauce.
Add spinach and basil, stirring until just wilted.
Toss gnocchi into the sauce, coat well, and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Use tortellini, ravioli, or another pasta shape instead of gnocchi.
Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
Swap parmesan for pecorino romano for a sharper bite.
Stir in mushrooms or roasted peppers for extra veggies.
Make it dairy-free with plant-based cream and cheese alternatives.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
Freezing is not recommended, as cream sauces can separate upon thawing.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought gnocchi for this recipe?

Yes, store-bought gnocchi works perfectly for this dish.

Do I need to boil gnocchi before pan-frying?

No, raw gnocchi can be pan-fried directly without boiling.

Can I use sun-dried tomatoes in oil or dry-packed?

Both work, but oil-packed sundried tomatoes add extra flavor and richness.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

Half-and-half or a plant-based cream substitute can be used, though the sauce will be lighter.

How do I keep the gnocchi crispy?

Pan-fry on medium-low heat until golden, and add it to the sauce just before serving.

Can I make this without cheese?

Yes, use a dairy-free parmesan alternative or omit it for a lighter version.

What other herbs pair well with this dish?

Fresh oregano, thyme, or parsley can also complement the flavors.

Can I add protein?

Yes, cooked chicken, shrimp, or even crispy pancetta make great additions.

Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, as long as you use a vegetarian parmesan-style cheese.

Can I make this in advance?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the sauce ahead and reheat gently before tossing with gnocchi.

Conclusion

Creamy Sundried Tomato “Marry Me” Gnocchi is a decadent, flavorful dish that combines crispy gnocchi with a luxurious tomato-cream sauce. Quick to make yet elegant to serve, it’s perfect for both casual weeknights and special occasions. This recipe proves that comfort food can also feel refined and unforgettable.

Maggie

Creamy Sundried Tomato “Marry Me” Gnocchi