Millionaire Gnocchi with Creamy Sauce is a delicious dish where pillowy soft gnocchi meet a rich, dreamy sauce that feels like a special treat every time you eat it. The gnocchi are tender and light, while the creamy sauce wraps around each piece in a way that makes every bite comforting and full of flavor. It’s one of those meals that feels fancy but is really easy to make.
I love making this dish when I want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. The sauce is thick and luscious, and it makes the gnocchi taste like they just came from a cozy Italian restaurant. I usually add a little extra cheese on top because, well, who can say no to that? Plus, it’s a big hit with everyone I serve it to, so I’m always happy when it’s on the menu.
For a fun twist, I like to sprinkle some fresh herbs on top, like basil or parsley, to brighten things up. This meal is perfect for a relaxed dinner at home or when friends come over and you want to serve something comforting but memorable. It’s definitely one of those dishes that I come back to again and again because it’s just so satisfying and easy to love.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potato Gnocchi: Store-bought gnocchi work great for convenience. If you prefer homemade, they add a fresh, soft texture. For a lighter option, you can try sweet potato gnocchi.
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce rich and smooth. If you want a lighter version, use half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free twist.
Tomato Paste: It brings a deep tomato flavor without watering down the sauce. You can swap it with crushed tomatoes for a chunkier texture, or a bit of roasted red pepper puree for sweetness.
Cheese: Parmesan gives a salty, nutty flavor, while mozzarella melts beautifully for gooey top layers. Feel free to mix in Pecorino Romano for extra sharpness or use vegan cheese for a dairy-free option.
Smoked Paprika: This adds a smoky warmth that lifts the sauce. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or a pinch of chili powder works too.
How Can You Get Crispy Gnocchi Without Them Sticking or Falling Apart?
Crispy gnocchi add a wonderful contrast to the creamy sauce, but they can be tricky. Here’s how I make it easy:
- Cook gnocchi in salted boiling water just until they float; this means they’re done.
- Drain and dry them well with a clean kitchen towel to remove extra moisture.
- Use a non-stick or well-seasoned skillet, heating olive oil and butter together for a rich flavor.
- Pan-sear gnocchi in small batches without crowding; this helps them crisp evenly without steaming.
- Flip gently with a spatula to brown all sides, about 3-4 minutes total.
Follow these steps and your gnocchi will be perfectly golden and hold their shape beautifully under the sauce.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – I use it to boil the gnocchi easily and quickly.
- Skillet or frying pan – perfect for searing the gnocchi to golden perfection.
- Slotted spoon – helps lift the cooked gnocchi out of boiling water without excess water.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring the sauce and tossing the gnocchi without breaking them.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to add ingredients accurately for a balanced sauce.
- Lid or aluminum foil – to cover the skillet for melting the cheese evenly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use cooked leftover chicken, shrimp, or bacon for added protein and heartiness.
- Mix in fresh or roasted vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers for extra color and crunch.
- Swap mozzarella with shredded provolone or fontina for different gooey textures and flavors.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of white wine to give the sauce a spicy or acid kick.
Millionaire Gnocchi with Creamy Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Gnocchi and Sauce:
- 1 lb (450g) potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup tomato paste or crushed tomatoes
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 20 minutes in total: 5 minutes to boil the gnocchi, 5-7 minutes to pan-sear them, and another 5-7 minutes to prepare and thicken the creamy sauce. It’s a quick and delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Gnocchi:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook them until they float to the surface—this usually takes just a couple of minutes. When they’re ready, scoop them out with a slotted spoon and set aside.
2. Sear the Gnocchi:
Heat the olive oil and butter together in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the gnocchi and cook them until they’re golden and crispy on all sides, turning gently for about 3-4 minutes. Then, remove the gnocchi from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Using the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it smells wonderful, but don’t let it burn. Lower the heat to medium, then stir in the heavy cream, tomato paste, and smoked paprika. Mix well and let the sauce warm and thicken slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
4. Add Cheese and Seasonings:
Stir the grated Parmesan into the sauce and season it with salt and black pepper to your taste. Now, put the crispy gnocchi back into the skillet and gently toss everything together so the gnocchi are fully coated in the rich, creamy sauce.
5. Melt the Mozzarella:
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over the top of the gnocchi. Cover the skillet with a lid or foil and let the cheese melt for 2-3 minutes, until it’s beautifully gooey.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Finish by sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or basil for a fresh touch. Serve your millionaire gnocchi hot and enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!
Can I Use Frozen Gnocchi for This Recipe?
Yes, frozen gnocchi work perfectly! Just cook them straight from frozen in boiling water until they float, then follow the recipe as usual for searing and sauce. No need to thaw beforehand.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover gnocchi in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat or microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce if needed.
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream?
Absolutely! You can use half-and-half for a lighter version or coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative. Keep in mind these options may slightly change the sauce’s richness and flavor.
What Can I Add to Make This Dish More Filling?
Try adding cooked chicken, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. These additions blend well with the creamy sauce and boost the meal’s heartiness.
