Name: Marry Me Gnocchi
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 3 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 clove garlic, grated; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 1 pound gnocchi, shelf-stable or refrigerated; 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and thinly sliced; 3 cups baby spinach; 1/2 cup grated parmesan; 1/2 cup full-fat Greek yogurt; 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest (optional); 1/2 teaspoon salt; Black pepper, to taste; 1 handful fresh basil, for serving

Why You’ll Love Marry Me Gnocchi Recipe

This recipe comes together in just 25 minutes using simple ingredients and one pan. The sauce is creamy yet balanced with tangy sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach. The gnocchi cooks directly in the broth, soaking up all the delicious flavors while creating a rich and velvety sauce.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 tablespoons tomato paste
1 clove garlic, grated
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 pound gnocchi
2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and thinly sliced
3 cups baby spinach
½ cup grated parmesan
½ cup full-fat Greek yogurt
½ teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
½ teaspoon salt
Black pepper, to taste
1 handful fresh basil, optional for serving

Directions

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3 minutes until softened.

Stir in the tomato paste, grated garlic, and red pepper flakes. Cook for another minute until the tomato paste darkens and becomes rich and fragrant.

Add the gnocchi, vegetable broth, oregano, salt, and a few grinds of black pepper. Stir well so the gnocchi are evenly coated.

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gnocchi are tender and the sauce begins to thicken.

Add the sun-dried tomatoes and baby spinach. Cook for another minute until the spinach wilts.

Remove the skillet from the heat and place it on a cool burner. Stir in the grated parmesan until melted and smooth.

Gently mix in the Greek yogurt and lemon zest for a creamy finish.

Top with fresh basil if desired and serve immediately with crusty bread.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Add cooked chicken or Italian sausage for extra protein.

Use kale instead of spinach for a heartier texture.

Swap Greek yogurt with heavy cream for a richer sauce.

Add mushrooms or roasted red peppers for extra vegetables.

Use spicy red pepper flakes for more heat.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.

Microwave individual portions in short intervals, stirring between each one.

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, as gnocchi can soften after extended storage.

FAQs

Can I use frozen gnocchi?

Yes, frozen gnocchi works well and can be added directly to the skillet.

Can I replace the Greek yogurt?

Yes, you can use heavy cream, cream cheese, or mascarpone instead.

Is this recipe spicy?

It has mild heat from the red pepper flakes, but you can adjust the amount to your taste.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, use dairy-free parmesan and a plant-based yogurt alternative.

What type of gnocchi works best?

Shelf-stable or refrigerated potato gnocchi both work well.

Can I add protein?

Yes, grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage are great additions.

Why did my sauce become too thick?

The gnocchi releases starch as it cooks. Add extra broth to thin the sauce if needed.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, but the texture is best when served fresh.

What can I serve with Marry Me Gnocchi?

Crusty bread, garlic bread, or a simple salad pair perfectly.

Can I freeze this dish?

Freezing is possible, but the creamy sauce may separate slightly after thawing.

Conclusion

Marry Me Gnocchi is a quick and flavorful one-pan meal that combines creamy sauce, tender gnocchi, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes into a comforting dinner everyone will love. It is simple enough for weeknights yet rich and satisfying enough to feel restaurant-worthy.