Spinach and Artichoke Gnocchi Recipe

If you love the creamy, comforting flavors of classic spinach and artichoke dip but crave something heartier and more satisfying, you will adore this Spinach and Artichoke Gnocchi Recipe. It’s a delightful twist that transforms those beloved ingredients into a warm, cozy dish bursting with cheesy, garlicky goodness and tender potato gnocchi that soak up every bit of the luscious sauce. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this recipe hits all the right notes with simple ingredients and easy steps, delivering a gourmet feel without fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting your ingredients right is the secret to the perfect Spinach and Artichoke Gnocchi Recipe. Each item here plays a vital role, from the creaminess of the cheese to the tender texture of the gnocchi, ensuring a balanced burst of flavors and an irresistible sauce.

• Cream Cheese (8 ounces, softened): This provides the rich, velvety base of the sauce, making every bite luxuriously creamy.
• Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): Adds a subtle fruity warmth and helps meld the flavors together.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Brings a punch of savory aroma that wakes up the entire dish.
• Low-Sodium Chicken or Vegetable Broth (1 cup): Keeps the sauce smooth and lightly seasoned without overpowering the other tastes.
• Potato Gnocchi (1 pound): The star carbohydrate that soaks up the flavorful sauce and adds a pillowy softness.
• Canned Artichokes (14 oz, drained and chopped): Offers a mild tang and tender bite, enhancing the dish’s complexity.
• Fresh Baby Spinach (2 cups, packed): Provides vibrant color and fresh, earthy notes that balance the richness.
• Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese (1 cup): Adds a sharp, umami-packed finish that ties all the flavors together beautifully.
• Salt & Pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and bringing out the best in every ingredient.

How to Make Spinach and Artichoke Gnocchi Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese and Artichokes

Start by making your cream cheese nice and soft—either leave it on the counter for a bit or give it a quick 20-30 second blast in the microwave so it spreads and melts easily. Meanwhile, chop your drained artichokes roughly to get ready for tossing them in later. These prep steps set the stage for smooth sauce development.

Step 2: Melt the Cream Cheese in Olive Oil

Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the softened cream cheese and stir it gently until it melts into a dreamy, silky base. This melting step helps create the luscious, creamy texture that makes this dish unforgettable.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Cook Until Fragrant

Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook it for about a minute. Just long enough for it to release its savory fragrance but not burn, giving the entire dish a warm, aromatic lift that’s simply irresistible.

Step 4: Stir in the Broth and Smooth the Sauce

Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and stir continuously until you have a smooth, slightly thickened sauce. The broth loosens the cream cheese while infusing it with subtle savory flavor, forming the perfect coating for your gnocchi.

Step 5: Add Gnocchi and Artichokes

Now it’s time to introduce the gnocchi and chopped artichokes to the pan. Give everything a good stir so each gnocchi is lightly covered with the flavorful sauce and the artichokes blend right in, creating a wonderful mix of textures.

Step 6: Layer the Fresh Spinach

Simply pile fresh baby spinach on top of the gnocchi mixture. Don’t stir it in yet—this will help the spinach steam nicely in the next step, maintaining its vibrant color and fresh taste.

Step 7: Cover and Cook

Cover the skillet and let the gnocchi cook for 5 minutes. The gentle steam softens the spinach just right while allowing the gnocchi to absorb the flavors without becoming mushy.

Step 8: Stir in Parmesan and Finish Cooking

Remove the cover and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Give everything a good stir and let the gnocchi cook uncovered for another few minutes until the cheese melts and the gnocchi is perfectly cooked through.

Step 9: Season and Serve Immediately

Finally, season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. Give it one last stir and serve piping hot for maximum comfort and flavor impact.

How to Serve Spinach and Artichoke Gnocchi Recipe

Garnishes

For a finishing touch, scatter some extra grated Parmesan or a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a few red pepper flakes can also add an exciting contrast to the mild creaminess.

Side Dishes

Pair this dish with a crisp green salad dressed simply with lemon juice and olive oil to brighten the meal. A crusty garlic bread or a light roasted vegetable medley also complements the gnocchi’s richness beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the gnocchi in shallow bowls to show off its vibrant greens and creamy sauce. For a special occasion, plate it with a few roasted cherry tomatoes or sprinkle toasted pine nuts on top for an unexpected crunch that wows your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Spinach and Artichoke Gnocchi Recipe stores wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it an excellent next-day meal.

Freezing

You can freeze leftovers, but keep in mind that the texture of the gnocchi may soften a bit after thawing. Freeze portions in a sealed container for up to 1 month, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce. Avoid the microwave if possible to maintain the gnocchi’s soft but firm texture and keep the sauce creamy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute frozen spinach if you drain it well to prevent extra water from thinning the sauce. Fresh spinach is preferred for color and flavor, but frozen works in a pinch.

Is it possible to make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! Swap cream cheese and Parmesan with your favorite plant-based alternatives and use vegetable broth to keep it veggie-friendly without losing the creamy goodness.

What brand or type of gnocchi works best?

Fresh or refrigerated potato gnocchi offer the best texture for this recipe. Avoid dried gnocchi as they take longer to cook and have a different mouthfeel that might not marry as well with the sauce.

Can I add other vegetables into the recipe?

Definitely! Mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted red peppers make great additions. Just add them alongside the artichokes for the best integration of flavors.

How spicy is this dish, and can I add heat?

This Spinach and Artichoke Gnocchi Recipe is naturally mild, but feel free to sprinkle in crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to kick up the heat to your liking.

Final Thoughts

This Spinach and Artichoke Gnocchi Recipe is hands down one of those soul-satisfying dishes that feels both special and comforting. It’s simple enough for busy nights but impressive enough for casual dinner parties, making it a true kitchen winner. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and find out just how deliciously easy creamy, cheesy gnocchi can be when paired with fresh spinach and tangy artichokes!

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