Some recipes taste like luxury without needing a fancy price tag — and this Millionaire Gnocchi is one of them. Soft potato pillows coated in a silky garlic butter cream sauce, finished with Parmesan and fresh herbs — it’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent yet easy enough for a Tuesday night.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Millionaire Gnocchi
This dish is everything you want in comfort food: creamy, buttery, and deeply satisfying.
- Rich and creamy sauce made in minutes.
- Golden gnocchi with a perfect sear.
- Elegant flavor that tastes like fine dining at home.
- Easy prep using just one pan.
- Vegetarian-friendly with vegan swap options.
- Perfect base for adding spinach, mushrooms, or grilled chicken.
I first made this dish for my wife on one of those “let’s skip takeout” nights. The smell of butter and garlic filled the house, and by the first bite, we both knew it was a keeper. It reminded me of my mom’s creamy pasta nights back when I worked long hours — simple food that made the day melt away.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need a few key ingredients to make this gnocchi taste like a restaurant meal. The combination of butter, cream, and Parmesan makes every bite luscious and comforting.
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound potato gnocchi – use fresh for the best soft texture.
- 2 tablespoons butter – adds richness and a golden finish.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – helps sear gnocchi perfectly.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – the heart of the sauce’s flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream – makes it velvety; half-and-half works too.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – gives creamy saltiness.
- 1 teaspoon rosemary, chopped – for an aromatic note.
- 1 teaspoon parsley, chopped – brightens the dish.
- Salt and pepper – to taste.
- Red pepper flakes – optional for a touch of heat.
Optional Add-Ons Or Substitutes
- Add sautéed spinach for color and nutrition.
- Swap butter for ghee to deepen the flavor.
- Use vegan Parmesan and coconut cream for dairy-free.
- Mix in mushrooms or roasted cherry tomatoes.
- Sprinkle crushed walnuts or pine nuts for texture.
- Garnish with lemon zest for brightness.
Step-By-Step Instructions
Cooking this creamy gnocchi is quick, straightforward, and guaranteed to impress.
- Pan-fry the gnocchi: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet. Add gnocchi and sauté until golden on both sides. (A crisp edge gives perfect texture.)
- Add garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. (Don’t let it brown — that turns it bitter.)
- Create the sauce: Pour in heavy cream and stir, scraping up golden bits. Let simmer until slightly thickened.
- Add cheese and herbs: Stir in Parmesan, rosemary, and parsley until melted and smooth.
- Season and finish: Add salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste. Toss gnocchi until coated in the creamy sauce.
- Serve hot: Plate immediately, sprinkle extra Parmesan on top, and enjoy that silky sauce.
Quick Reminders:
- Don’t overcrowd the pan — sear gnocchi in batches if needed.
- Use fresh herbs for brighter flavor.
- Stir sauce gently to avoid breaking.
- Serve immediately for the creamiest texture.
Expert Tips For Success
This recipe is rich but balanced — here’s how to make it flawless every time.
- Use fresh gnocchi; shelf-stable ones can get chewy.
- Don’t rinse gnocchi after cooking — the starch helps sauce stick.
- Grate your Parmesan fresh for a smoother texture.
- Add a splash of pasta water to thin the sauce if it thickens too much.
- For a lighter option, use half-and-half instead of cream.
- Deglaze the pan with a splash of broth before adding cream for extra flavor.
Cream sauces can be tricky, but this one’s foolproof when you let the ingredients shine.
Serving Suggestions
Millionaire Gnocchi pairs beautifully with simple sides or fresh greens.
- Serve with Green Herby Chicken And Rice Soup for a balanced dinner.
- Try alongside Cheddar And Herb Soda Bread for soaking up extra sauce.
- Add a crisp Caesar or arugula salad for freshness.
- Enjoy with roasted vegetables or a side of asparagus.
- Finish with Italian Fig Cookies for a sweet touch.
The creamy texture and rich sauce make it the perfect comfort meal any night of the week.
Storing And Reheating
Creamy gnocchi keeps well if you store it properly — just reheat gently to maintain texture.
How To Store It
- Cool before transferring to containers.
- Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Freeze only if using dairy-free cream (to avoid separation).
- Store sauce separately if possible for best results.
How To Reheat It
- Stovetop: Warm gently over medium heat, adding a splash of cream or milk.
- Microwave: Reheat in 30-second bursts, stirring often.
- Oven: Cover and warm at 350°F for 10–12 minutes.
- Avoid high heat — it can make the sauce oily.
A little patience when reheating keeps the sauce smooth and creamy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought gnocchi?
Yes! Just pan-fry longer for crisp edges and better texture.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely — use gluten-free gnocchi from the store or homemade with rice flour.
What protein pairs well with it?
Try grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
This Millionaire Gnocchi Recipe proves you don’t need fancy ingredients to eat like royalty. A little butter, cream, and garlic go a long way toward creating something memorable.
- Keep the sauce silky — don’t overcook it.
- Use real herbs and fresh cheese for depth.
- Enjoy it right away while it’s hot and creamy.
From my Texas kitchen to yours, this is comfort food with class — a dish that feels luxurious, homemade, and straight from the heart.
Creamy Millionaire Gnocchi With Garlic Butter Sauce
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add gnocchi and pan-fry until golden on both sides.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, until fragrant but not browned.
- Pour in heavy cream and stir, scraping up any browned bits. Simmer until slightly thickened.
- Add Parmesan, rosemary, and parsley. Stir until cheese is melted and sauce is creamy.
- Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Toss gnocchi to coat fully in the sauce.
- Serve immediately with extra Parmesan and herbs on top, if desired.
Nutrition
Notes
- Use fresh gnocchi for best texture. *
- Half-and-half or dairy-free cream can be substituted.
- Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms for variation.
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