Name: Creamy Sundried Tomato “Marry Me” Gnocchi Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 18 oz gnocchi (or another short pasta shape); 1/2 red onion (diced); 3 cloves garlic; 1 pinch red pepper or chili flakes (or to taste); 2 tsp mixed Italian seasoning; 1/3 cup sundried tomatoes (chopped, see notes); 2 tbsp tomato paste (puree); 2/3 cup vegetable broth; 2/3 cup heavy (double) cream; 3/4 cup Parmesan style cheese (grated); 1 small bunch basil (chopped); 1-2 handfuls baby spinach (chopped)

Jump to Recipe

If you’ve ever wished you could scoop up pure comfort with a fork, Creamy Sundried Tomato “Marry Me” Gnocchi is your dream come true. Fluffy gnocchi gets pan-seared until golden and then tossed in a luscious sundried tomato cream sauce, all blanketed with melting parmesan and pops of fresh basil. Whether you’re out to impress a special someone or just yourself on a cozy weeknight, this recipe is decadence made simple – and once you try it, you’ll swear you’re ready to say “I do” to every creamy, tangy, and savory bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This dish is all about letting a handful of bold, carefully chosen ingredients shine. Each one plays a starring role in the decadent texture and sun-kissed flavors of Creamy Sundried Tomato “Marry Me” Gnocchi – don’t skip a thing!

Gnocchi (18 oz): These pillowy potato dumplings crisp perfect on the outside while staying soft within – use store-bought or homemade!
Red onion (1/2, diced): Brings a subtle sweetness and aromatic base to the sauce.
Garlic (3 cloves): Irresistibly savory; a must for a deeply flavorful sauce.
Red pepper or chili flakes (pinch, or to taste): Adds gentle warmth and a hint of background heat.
Mixed Italian seasoning (2 tsp): Herby goodness that infuses every spoonful with Mediterranean depth.
Sundried tomatoes (1/3 cup, chopped): Sweet-tart, intensely flavorful, and the heart of this dish – jarred in oil is best.
Tomato paste (2 tbsp): For concentrated, bright tomato flavor and beautiful color.
Vegetable broth (2/3 cup): Thins the sauce just enough while layering on even more savory notes.
Heavy (double) cream (2/3 cup): The secret to that dreamy, luxe sauce texture.
Parmesan style cheese (3/4 cup, grated): Melts into the sauce and adds a nutty, salty punch.
Basil (small bunch, chopped): Lifts everything with fresh, peppery brightness.
Baby spinach (1-2 handfuls, chopped): Sneaks in some greens and a splash of color right at the finish.

How to Make Creamy Sundried Tomato “Marry Me” Gnocchi

Step 1: Start the Flavor Base

Begin by heating a glug of olive oil – or better yet, the flavorful oil from your sundried tomato jar – in a large, deep saucepan over low to medium heat. Add the diced red onion and sauté until it softens and begins to turn translucent. Fold in the garlic, a pinch of chili flakes, Italian seasoning, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper, then the sundried tomatoes. Keep cooking until everything is tender and beautifully fragrant; this step lays down the foundation for the sauce’s rich and savory backbone.

Step 2: Build the Sauce

Next, stir in the tomato paste and let it cook until it darkens and smells toasty, about two minutes. Now pour in the vegetable broth, give everything a good mix, and let the sauce gently simmer, partially covered. This thickens and reduces the sauce while you move on to the next task – multitasking magic!

Step 3: Pan-Fry the Gnocchi

While the sauce simmers, heat another slick of olive oil (ideally sundried tomato oil again) in a separate non-stick skillet over low-medium heat. Add the gnocchi in a single layer and let them sizzle until golden and crisp on all sides, turning occasionally. This step takes patience – about 10 minutes – but the contrast of crusty edges and fluffy centers is totally worth it. Slow-and-steady is the way to perfect pan-seared gnocchi.

Step 4: Finish the Creamy Sundried Tomato “Marry Me” Gnocchi Sauce

When the gnocchi are nearly done, return to your sauce. Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle over the parmesan, stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce gets sumptuously creamy. Stir through the chopped basil and spinach – just enough to wilt the greens and let them shine with their bright color. You’ll see (and smell) when it’s ready!

Step 5: Bring It All Together and Serve

Add the crispy gnocchi straight into the pan with your sauce. Toss to coat every piece thoroughly, then get ready to plate right away. The Creamy Sundried Tomato “Marry Me” Gnocchi is at its most irresistible piping hot and fresh from the pan. Time to dig in and enjoy!

How to Serve Creamy Sundried Tomato “Marry Me” Gnocchi

Garnishes

Scatter extra grated parmesan, a few torn basil leaves, and maybe a drizzle of that golden sundried tomato oil right over the top for color and even more flavor. Cracked black pepper or a pinch of chili flakes can add just the right finishing kick.

Side Dishes

This gnocchi is rich and creamy on its own, so serve it with a sharply dressed green salad or simply steamed green beans. A chewy, crusty bread is perfect for mopping up any lingering sauce – or opt for roasted asparagus in the spring months!

Creative Ways to Present

Try plating the Creamy Sundried Tomato “Marry Me” Gnocchi in a wide, shallow bowl for that restaurant wow-factor. Add a final shower of microgreens or fresh herbs, or use mini cast iron skillets for individual servings at your next dinner gathering. Don’t forget: a wedge of lemon on the side adds a fun twist and a hit of brightness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftover gnocchi cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll keep beautifully for up to 3 days, making it a perfect next-day lunch.

Freezing

You can freeze Creamy Sundried Tomato “Marry Me” Gnocchi, but the sauce may change in texture slightly due to the cream. If you plan to freeze, cool fully, portion into airtight containers, and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if needed. Stir well as you warm it up, and finish with a fresh sprinkle of parmesan and basil for revived flavor and color.

FAQs

Can I use gluten-free gnocchi for this recipe?

Absolutely! Gluten-free gnocchi works just as well in Creamy Sundried Tomato “Marry Me” Gnocchi and delivers the same pillowy bite; just check cooking times as some brands differ.

What if I can’t find sundried tomatoes in oil?

If only dried sundried tomatoes are available, soak them in hot water for 10 minutes to plump up, then use olive oil as indicated in the recipe for sautéing. The flavor will still be delicious.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Definitely! Simply use plant-based cream and a vegan parmesan alternative, and double-check your gnocchi is egg- and dairy-free. You’ll still get all the creaminess and flavor.

Can I swap the gnocchi for another type of pasta?

Short, sturdy pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni work great! Just cook your pasta according to package instructions and toss it with the finished sauce instead of pan-frying.

How spicy is this dish?

The “marry me” sauce has only a hint of heat from the chili flakes, but you’re fully in control. Add more for extra kick or leave them out if you prefer it mild.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Sundried Tomato “Marry Me” Gnocchi is my go-to dish when I want serious comfort with very little fuss – and I’m always amazed at how such simple ingredients can create such rich, restaurant-style results. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall for every luscious forkful. Don’t be surprised if this is the recipe everyone asks you to make again and again!

Creamy Sundried Tomato “Marry Me” Gnocchi Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 10 reviews

Author: anna
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in a decadent and flavorful dish with this Creamy Sundried Tomato ‘Marry Me’ Gnocchi recipe. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in, this dish combines the richness of sundried tomatoes, cream, and Parmesan cheese with the pillowy goodness of gnocchi for a truly satisfying meal.

Instructions

Saute Aromatics: In a large saucepan, saute onions, garlic, chili flakes, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and sundried tomatoes until soft and fragrant.
Add Tomato Paste: Stir in tomato paste and simmer.
Pan Fry Gnocchi: Pan fry gnocchi in olive oil until golden and crispy.
Finish Sauce: Add cream, cheese, spinach, and basil to the sauce, simmer until cheese melts.
Combine and Serve: Toss gnocchi in sauce, plate, and serve hot.