15-Minute Creamy Alfredo Gnocchi – Fast, Comforting, and Luxuriously Smooth
When you need dinner on the table fast but still crave something rich and satisfying, 15-Minute Creamy Alfredo Gnocchi is the answer. This recipe transforms store-bought gnocchi into a silky, restaurant-style meal using just a handful of ingredients and one pan.
Gnocchi cook faster than traditional pasta and absorb sauce beautifully, making them perfect for quick weeknight dinners. In this recipe, they’re coated in a classic Alfredo sauce made with butter, garlic, cream, and Parmesan — simple, timeless, and incredibly comforting.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or unexpected guests, this dish delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Why Gnocchi Works So Well with Alfredo Sauce
Gnocchi’s soft, pillowy texture makes it ideal for creamy sauces. Unlike long noodles, gnocchi hold onto every bit of Alfredo, creating rich, flavorful bites from start to finish.
Because gnocchi cook in just minutes, they pair perfectly with quick sauces. While the gnocchi simmer, the Alfredo comes together in the same pan, saving time and dishes while building deep flavor.
The result is a dish that feels indulgent yet approachable — comfort food without the wait.
Ingredients
- Shelf-stable or refrigerated gnocchi
- Butter
- Garlic, minced
- Heavy cream
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook gnocchi according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter.
- Add garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and simmer gently for 2–3 minutes.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Add cooked gnocchi to the sauce and toss gently to coat.
- Cook for 1–2 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and extra Parmesan before serving.
15-Minute Creamy Alfredo Gnocchi
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook gnocchi according to package directions and drain.
- Make Alfredo sauce with butter, garlic, cream, and Parmesan.
- Toss gnocchi with sauce and serve immediately.
Notes
Tips for the Best Alfredo Gnocchi
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest sauce.
- Keep the heat low when adding cheese to prevent graininess.
- Salt lightly at first — Parmesan adds natural saltiness.
- Serve immediately for the creamiest texture.
Easy Add-Ins and Variations
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon.
- Veggie Add-In: Stir in spinach, peas, or mushrooms.
- Extra Cheesy: Add a touch of cream cheese for richness.
- Garlic Lovers: Increase garlic or finish with roasted garlic.
What to Serve with Alfredo Gnocchi
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread. A simple side balances the richness and turns it into a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Creamy Alfredo Gnocchi is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s texture.
Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Weeknight Rotation
Fast, creamy, and endlessly customizable, 15-Minute Creamy Alfredo Gnocchi proves that comfort food doesn’t need to be complicated. It’s rich without being heavy, simple without being boring, and ready faster than ordering takeout.
Once you try it, it becomes one of those reliable recipes you reach for again and again.
