Description
This delightful Marry Me Gnocchi recipe offers pillowy gnocchi simmered in a creamy, flavorful sauce loaded with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and fresh herbs. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a perfect easy yet impressive dinner that brings together tangy, spicy, and creamy elements for a comforting Italian-inspired dish.
Ingredients
Gnocchi and Sauce
- 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided
- 3/4 cup finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes in oil
- 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp. fresh thyme leaves
- 1/2 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 (17-oz.) package gnocchi
- 1 1/4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp. fresh torn basil leaves
Instructions
- Sauté the Tomatoes and Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, until they start to brown slightly, about 2 to 3 minutes. Then add the chopped garlic, fresh thyme, and crushed red pepper flakes, cooking while stirring until fragrant, about 1 to 2 minutes more.
- Cook the Gnocchi and Simmer the Sauce: Push the tomato mixture to the edges of the skillet. Pour the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil into the center of the skillet. Add the gnocchi and toss it gently to coat with the oil. Cook the gnocchi undisturbed for 2 minutes to lightly brown the bottoms. Then stir in the chicken or vegetable broth along with the heavy cream, mixing well to combine with the tomato mixture. Bring the sauce to a simmer and continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the gnocchi becomes tender and the sauce thickens slightly, about 4 to 5 minutes.
- Finish with Cheese and Basil: Stir in the shredded Parmesan cheese until melted and incorporated into the sauce. Remove from heat and top the dish with fresh torn basil leaves just before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
- Ensure the gnocchi is cooked until tender but not mushy; follow package instructions if unsure.
- For extra heat, increase the crushed red pepper flakes to taste.
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor, but dried thyme can be used if fresh is unavailable, using about 1 teaspoon instead of 1 tablespoon.
- This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
