Millionaire Gnocchi with Creamy Sauce

Millionaire Gnocchi with Creamy Sauce is a wonderful dish that brings soft, pillowy gnocchi together with a rich and silky creamy sauce. It’s a perfect comfort food that feels a little fancy without any fuss. The gnocchi soak up the sauce beautifully, making each bite smooth and flavorful, while a hint of cheese and herbs add a lovely touch.

I really enjoy making this recipe when I want something special but still easy to prepare. The creamy sauce comes together quickly, and the gnocchi cook in just minutes, which makes it perfect for a cozy weeknight meal. I like to add a bit of garlic and sprinkle on some fresh parsley at the end—that little fresh pop really brightens up the dish for me.

When I serve Millionaire Gnocchi, I usually pair it with a simple green salad or some steamed vegetables to balance out the creaminess. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a treat, yet it’s so comforting that everyone at the table will ask for seconds. It’s one of those recipes I turn to when friends come over because it’s always a crowd-pleaser and feels warm and inviting without a lot of work.

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Potato Gnocchi: These soft dumplings are the star here. Store-bought gnocchi work great for quick meals, but homemade gnocchi give a tender, fresh taste if you want to try making them.

Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce rich and smooth. If you want a lighter option, try half-and-half or a blend of milk and cream cheese, but the sauce will be less thick.

Parmesan Cheese: This adds a salty, nutty flavor to the sauce. Pecorino Romano is a fine substitute if you want a sharper taste. Don’t skip grating it fresh—it melts better!

Tomato Paste or Roasted Red Pepper Puree: These give a lovely color and subtle sweetness. You can use just tomato paste if red pepper puree isn’t available. Either way, it lifts the sauce beyond plain cream.

Smoked Paprika (Optional): I love adding this to give a smoky hint that balances the cream. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or a tiny pinch of cayenne will work too.

How Can I Make the Creamy Sauce Smooth and Rich without Clumps?

Getting a silky sauce takes just a few simple steps. Start by gently melting butter and cooking garlic without browning it—that keeps the flavor sweet and prevents bitterness.

• Mix tomato paste and smoked paprika into the butter and garlic to release their flavors before adding liquid.
• Pour in cream and broth slowly and stir to combine well.
• Keep the heat medium-low to prevent the cream from boiling harshly, which can cause curdling.
• When you add Parmesan, stir constantly but gently. This helps it melt smoothly into the sauce without clumping.
• Finish by tossing the cooked gnocchi in the sauce quickly so they get coated but don’t overcook.

Patience and medium heat are your best allies for creamy perfection!

Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot – perfect for boiling the gnocchi quickly and easily. I like it because it’s simple and gets the job done fast.
• Skillet or cast-iron pan – I prefer a wide pan to make sure the sauce and gnocchi cook evenly and stick-free.
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – helps you stir smoothly without scratching your pan and keeps everything well combined.
• Grater – essential for freshly grating Parmesan cheese, which melts better and adds great flavor.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

• Swap out Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or Gruyère for different salty and nutty notes.
• Add cooked chicken, bacon, or shrimp for a protein boost that makes the dish more filling.
• Mix in sautéed spinach, peas, or roasted red peppers to add color and extra vegetables.
• Sprinkle red chili flakes or add a dash of hot sauce if you like a little heat with your creamy sauce.

Millionaire Gnocchi with Creamy Sauce

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 lb (450 g) potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for topping
• 1/4 cup tomato paste or roasted red pepper puree (for color and subtle sweetness)
• 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for a hint of smoky flavor)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh oregano or basil leaves, for garnish
• Olive oil, for cooking gnocchi (optional)

Time You’ll Need:

This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes of active cooking time. Boiling the gnocchi only takes a few minutes, and the creamy sauce comes together quickly. You’ll have a warm, comforting meal ready in less than 20 minutes!

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 until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to scoop them out, then set aside. Optionally, you can toss them in a little olive oil to keep them from sticking.

2. Prepare the Creamy Sauce:

In a large skillet or cast-iron pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it smells wonderful but hasn’t browned. Stir in the tomato paste or roasted red pepper puree and smoked paprika, cooking for another minute to bring out the flavors.

3. Finish the Sauce and Combine:

Pour in the heavy cream and broth, stirring everything together. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3-5 minutes until it thickens just a bit. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.

4. Toss Gnocchi in the Sauce:

Add the cooked gnocchi to the sauce. Toss gently to coat each piece well. Let everything cook together for 2-3 minutes so the flavors blend perfectly.

5. Serve and Garnish:

Remove from heat and sprinkle extra grated Parmesan and fresh oregano or basil over the top. Serve right away while it’s warm and creamy. It’s lovely paired with a fresh green salad or steamed veggies.

Can I Use Frozen Gnocchi for This Recipe?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking, or you can add them directly to boiling water but expect a minute or two longer cooking time. Drain once they float to the top.

How Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?

You can prepare the creamy sauce up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate it. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of cream or broth if it’s too thick when reheating.

Can I Substitute Heavy Cream with Something Lighter?

Absolutely! Half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch can help thicken the sauce. Just keep in mind the sauce will be less rich and creamy.

What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?

Store any leftover gnocchi and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, stirring frequently to ensure even warming.