This Gnocchi Alfredo is creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-comforting! Made with fluffy potato dumplings and a rich white sauce, it’s a cozy dish perfect for any pasta lover.
I always think of this as a hug in a bowl! You really can’t go wrong with such a simple recipe—I whip it up in no time and enjoy every cheesy bite!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potato Gnocchi: You can use store-bought gnocchi for convenience, or make your own for an authentic touch. If you’re looking for alternatives, gluten-free gnocchi options are available, made with various flours. Just check the cooking times as they may vary.
Unsalted Butter: Butter adds a rich depth of flavor, but you could substitute it with olive oil for a lighter option. Ghee is another great alternative; it brings a nutty taste without the milk solids.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its creamy texture, but you can use half-and-half for a lighter sauce or even coconut cream for a dairy-free version. If you’re in a pinch, whole milk will work too, but the sauce may be less rich.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is key for flavor. If you don’t have it, Pecorino Romano is a nice substitute that adds a slightly saltier taste. Nutritional yeast can also give a cheesy flavor for a vegan option.
How Do I Prevent My Alfredo Sauce from Curdeling?
One common struggle with Alfredo sauce is it can curdle if cooked too rapidly or at too high a temperature. Here’s how to keep it smooth:
- Always use medium heat when cooking the sauce; this allows it to gently simmer without boiling.
- Gradually add the cheese while stirring to help it melt evenly.
- If your sauce thickens too much, whisk in a little pasta cooking water or more cream to loosen it.
Following these tips will help you achieve a velvety sauce every time!
How to Make Gnocchi Alfredo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced, for garnish
- Optional: pinch of nutmeg or red pepper flakes for extra flavor
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Gnocchi Alfredo takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook, making it a quick and easy dish that you’ll be able to whip up in just 20 minutes! Perfect for a weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Gnocchi:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, gently add the gnocchi. Cook them according to the package instructions; they should float to the surface, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes. When they’re done, drain and set aside.
2. Sautéing the Garlic:
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter until bubbly. Then, add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic brown, as it can become bitter!
3. Making the Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Allow the cream to cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the pan.
4. Adding the Cheese:
Gradually add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese while stirring continuously. Keep mixing until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce thickens beautifully. Taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. If you like, add a pinch of nutmeg or some red pepper flakes for a bit of extra flavor!
5. Combining Gnocchi and Sauce:
With the sauce ready, gently add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet, stirring to coat them evenly in the Alfredo sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the gnocchi to warm through.
6. Serving:
Dish up your creamy Gnocchi Alfredo hot, garnished with freshly sliced basil leaves and extra grated Parmesan cheese if you wish. Enjoy every comforting bite!
There you have it! A blissful and cheesy bowl of Gnocchi Alfredo, ready to delight your taste buds!
Can I Use Frozen Gnocchi for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen gnocchi can be a great time-saver. Just cook them according to the package instructions without thawing, and they will turn out perfectly in the sauce.
Can I Make This Recipe Lighter?
Yes! You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or even milk for a lighter version. Keep in mind that the sauce might not be as thick and creamy, but it will still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to reheat, warm them up gently on the stove with a splash of cream or milk to help loosen the sauce, ensuring it stays creamy.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add to Gnocchi Alfredo?
Feel free to add veggies like spinach, peas, or broccoli for extra flavor and color. Just sauté them briefly before adding the cream to ensure they are tender and flavorful in your dish!
