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Creamy Butter Gnocchi with Spinach and Basil

Creamy Butter Gnocchi with Spinach and Basil


  • Author: Samuel
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten Free option (ensure gnocchi is gluten free)

Description

Enjoy a comforting and easy weeknight dinner with Creamy Butter Gnocchi with Spinach and Basil. This dish combines tender store-bought gnocchi with a luscious butter sauce, fresh spinach, fragrant basil, and melty shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal), delivering a perfect balance of creamy richness and fresh herbal brightness. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a versatile, all-in-one plate that satisfies with minimal effort and maximum flavor.


Ingredients

Scale

Gnocchi

  • 500g store-bought potato gnocchi

Sauce

  • 3 tablespoons butter (use plant-based butter for vegan option)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal)
  • 1 teaspoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional for gentle kick)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Scoop them out gently and set aside.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and finely chopped onion. Cook until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes, to form a flavorful base.
  3. Add Spinach and Basil: Toss in the fresh spinach leaves and chopped basil. Stir gently until the spinach wilts but remains bright green, infusing the sauce with fresh herbal notes.
  4. Stir in Cheese and Seasonings: Reduce the heat to low. Sprinkle in shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal) and stir continuously to melt it slowly into the sauce. Season with salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, and a splash of vegetarian Worcestershire sauce for added depth.
  5. Combine Gnocchi and Sauce: Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet. Carefully fold them into the creamy sauce to coat every piece. Heat for another 1-2 minutes to meld the flavors perfectly before serving.

Notes

  • Do not overcook the gnocchi; remove as soon as they float for optimal texture.
  • Use fresh basil for the best vibrant flavor over dried herbs.
  • Melt the cheese slowly on low heat to avoid clumping and keep the sauce smooth.
  • Add butter last for the richest, silkiest sauce texture.
  • Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and acidity from vegetarian Worcestershire sauce as you cook.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 350 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 8 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg

Keywords: gnocchi, creamy butter sauce, spinach, basil, vegetarian, quick dinner, easy recipe, mozzarella cheese vegetal