Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with these 20 creamy skillet gnocchi recipes that put a twist on the classic dish. Gnocchi, those soft and pillowy Italian dumplings, are a staple in many kitchens, but when cooked in a skillet with rich and creamy sauces, they become a game-changer. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and spring-inspired or hearty and comforting, these recipes have got you covered.
From garlic butter and sun-dried tomatoes to sausage and peppers, this collection of recipes will show you that there’s more to gnocchi than just tossing them with some tomato sauce. With a range of flavors and ingredients to choose from, you’re sure to find something that suits your taste buds and cooking style.
Garlic Butter Skillet Gnocchi with Spinach
This recipe combines the comfort of gnocchi with the richness of garlic butter and the brightness of spinach, all cooked to perfection in one skillet. A perfect weeknight dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound store-bought or homemade gnocchi
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large skillet filled with salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the surface.
2. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Remove the gnocchi from the skillet with a slotted spoon and add them to the garlic butter mixture.
4. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Skillet Gnocchi
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, sun-kissed skillet dish featuring soft gnocchi smothered in a rich and tangy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of gnocchi
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions until tender. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Add cooked gnocchi to the skillet and toss with the creamy sauce until well coated.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pan Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage and Peppers
In this hearty one-pan wonder, tender gnocchi are cooked alongside spicy Italian sausage and colorful bell peppers. The result is a satisfying, comforting meal that’s ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb gnocchi
– 1 lb sweet or hot Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Cook sausage until browned, breaking apart with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add bell peppers, onion, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Add gnocchi, crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 10-12 minutes or until gnocchi float.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Pesto Skillet Gnocchi with Cherry Tomatoes
Pesto Skillet Gnocchi with Cherry Tomatoes Recipe
A flavorful one-pan wonder that combines the richness of gnocchi, the brightness of cherry tomatoes, and the creaminess of pesto.
Ingredients:
• 1 package of gnocchi (homemade or store-bought)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup freshly made pesto
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook until they release their juices and start to caramelize, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the gnocchi to the skillet and toss with the tomato mixture until well coated.
6. Stir in the freshly made pesto and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Skillet Gnocchi Alfredo
Transform your pasta game with this easy and indulgent recipe that combines the best of gnocchi, Alfredo sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese in one convenient skillet. Perfect for a cozy night in or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound gnocchi
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add flour and whisk to create a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
3. Gradually pour in heavy cream, whisking continuously. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Add cooked gnocchi, mozzarella cheese, salt, and pepper. Toss until well combined.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Cajun Skillet Gnocchi with Shrimp
Elevate your pasta game with this spicy and savory skillet recipe that combines tender gnocchi, succulent shrimp, and bold Cajun flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound store-bought or homemade gnocchi
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 cup diced yellow onion
– 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions or your own recipe. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion, bell pepper, and jalapeño; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add shrimp and Cajun seasoning; cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Stir in cayenne pepper and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add cooked gnocchi to the skillet and toss with butter, chicken broth, and parsley (if using).
6. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing gnocchi to absorb flavors.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Skillet Gnocchi Primavera with Fresh Veggies
Brighten up your weeknight dinner routine with this vibrant and flavorful skillet gnocchi primavera, packed with sautéed fresh veggies and tender gnocchi.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb store-bought or homemade gnocchi
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed spring vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, snap peas, carrots)
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender-crisp (5-6 minutes).
4. If using wine and broth, add to the skillet and stir to combine. Bring to a simmer.
5. Stir in butter and cooked gnocchi. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Brown Butter Sage Skillet Gnocchi
This recipe transforms store-bought gnocchi into a rich and satisfying meal by adding the nutty flavor of brown butter and the earthy essence of sage. Perfect for a cozy night in or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 package store-bought gnocchi
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage leaves
– Salt, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Bring a large skillet over medium heat and add the butter.
2. Continue cooking until the butter turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma (about 5 minutes).
3. Add the chopped sage leaves and cook for an additional minute, stirring occasionally.
4. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet with the brown butter and sage mixture.
6. Toss gently to combine, seasoning with salt to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Skillet Gnocchi Carbonara with Pancetta
A creamy, rich twist on the classic Italian dish, this skillet gnocchi carbonara with pancetta is a comforting and satisfying meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb. gnocchi
– 6 oz. pancetta, diced
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the surface. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook the pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Add the cooked gnocchi to the bowl with the egg mixture and toss to combine, adding some reserved pasta cooking water if needed to achieve a creamy consistency.
5. Add the pancetta and chopped parsley (if using) to the bowl and toss everything together.
6. Cook over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the eggs are cooked through and the dish is heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Skillet Gnocchi with Olives and Feta
A flavorful and hearty one-pot dish that combines the comfort of gnocchi with the bright, herby flavors of the Mediterranean.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) package of potato gnocchi
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the sliced olives and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly caramelized.
5. Add the gnocchi to the skillet, stirring to combine with the olive mixture.
6. Cook the gnocchi for about 5 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
7. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and chopped parsley over the top of the gnocchi.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Skillet Gnocchi with Mushrooms and Thyme
This recipe is a creative twist on traditional gnocchi, cooked to perfection in a skillet with sautéed mushrooms and thyme. The result is a comforting and savory dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound gnocchi
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 8 ounces mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the mushrooms and garlic; cook until the mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the gnocchi and thyme to the skillet; cook for 2-3 minutes or until the gnocchi float to the surface.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Garlic Skillet Gnocchi with Asparagus
Brighten up your weeknight dinner with this flavorful and easy-to-make skillet dish, featuring tender gnocchi smothered in a zesty lemon garlic sauce and paired with crisp asparagus.
Ingredients:
– 1 package gnocchi (about 12 oz)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the surface. Reserve.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add lemon juice, asparagus, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until asparagus is tender-crisp.
4. Add cooked gnocchi to the skillet and toss with asparagus mixture until well coated.
5. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Skillet Gnocchi with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
Elevate your comfort food game with this quick and flavorful recipe that combines soft gnocchi, tender vegetables, and a rich roasted red pepper sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 package (14 oz) potato gnocchi
– 2 medium red bell peppers, seeded and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the red bell peppers with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until tender.
4. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat.
6. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, then add the roasted red bell peppers and chicken broth.
7. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
8. Combine the cooked gnocchi with the roasted pepper sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Skillet Gnocchi and Chicken in Creamy Tomato Sauce
Quickly cook up a satisfying one-pot meal with this easy recipe that combines tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups gnocchi (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the chicken until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Add the cooked gnocchi and chicken back into the skillet. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Skillet Gnocchi with Caramelized Onions and Gorgonzola
A twist on traditional gnocchi, this recipe combines soft potato dumplings with sweet caramelized onions and tangy Gorgonzola cheese in a simple one-skillet dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound potato gnocchi
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 ounces Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
2. Add the sliced onions and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are dark golden brown and caramelized.
3. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet with the caramelized onions. Toss to combine.
5. Sprinkle the crumbled Gorgonzola cheese over the top of the gnocchi mixture. Toss until the cheese is melted and well combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Skillet Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes
In this recipe, tender gnocchi is cooked to perfection in a skillet with fresh spinach and artichoke hearts, resulting in a creamy and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of gnocchi
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add artichoke hearts and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Add cooked gnocchi, spinach leaves, and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Toss until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Skillet Gnocchi with Butternut Squash and Sage
This recipe brings together the comforting warmth of gnocchi, the sweetness of roasted butternut squash, and the earthy flavor of sage. Perfect for a cozy winter evening, this skillet dish is easy to prepare and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound potato gnocchi
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 sage leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped sage and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the cooked gnocchi, roasted squash, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Toss everything together until well combined.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Skillet Gnocchi with Broccoli and Cheddar
Quickly cook gnocchi, broccoli, and cheddar in one pan for a satisfying and comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound potato gnocchi
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until slightly tender.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender.
3. Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet with the broccoli.
4. Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese over the top of the gnocchi and broccoli.
5. Stir everything together until the cheese is melted and the gnocchi are well coated.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Skillet Gnocchi with Zucchini and Parmesan
Elevate your pasta game with this quick and easy skillet gnocchi recipe, featuring tender zucchini and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 package gnocchi (about 12 oz)
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the surface.
2. While the gnocchi cooks, heat the olive oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced zucchinis and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender.
3. Add the garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
4. Once the gnocchi is cooked, drain and add it to the skillet with the zucchini mixture. Toss everything together until the gnocchi is well coated.
5. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Skillet Gnocchi with Crispy Prosciutto and Peas
This recipe is a creative take on traditional gnocchi, featuring crispy prosciutto and sweet peas in a one-pot wonder. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound gnocchi
– 6 slices prosciutto, torn into pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups fresh peas (or frozen)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add prosciutto and cook until crispy, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add peas to the skillet and cook until tender, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add cooked gnocchi to the skillet and toss with pea mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with crispy prosciutto and grated Parmesan cheese (if using). Cooks in approximately 15-20 minutes.
Summary
Get ready to elevate your skillet game with these 20 creamy gnocchi recipes! From classic comfort foods like Garlic Butter Skillet Gnocchi with Spinach and Cheesy Skillet Gnocchi Alfredo, to international twists like Spicy Cajun Skillet Gnocchi with Shrimp and Mediterranean Skillet Gnocchi with Olives and Feta, there’s something for every taste. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty one-pan meal or a light and fresh primavera-inspired dish, these recipes will guide you through the process of making creamy skillet gnocchi that are sure to impress.