June 18, 2026 ยท 5 min

Creamy Gnocchi with Spinach and Tomatoes and Garlic Butter Breadcrumbs

Dinner5 min670 cal / serving

If you love gnocchi, you’re in for a treat. This dish combines pillowy potato gnocchi with fresh spinach and sweet grape tomatoes, all enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce. The crowning glory is a generous sprinkle of garlicky panko breadcrumbs, toasted in butter until golden and crisp. Each bite offers a delightful contrast of textures-soft gnocchi, tender greens, juicy tomatoes and crunchy topping.

This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The creamy sauce is made with cream cheese and a touch of veggie stock concentrate, creating a luscious coating without being heavy. Serve it as a satisfying main course or a hearty side. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself making excuses to whip it up again and again!


Recipe details

Dinner5 min670 cal / serving2 servings

Nutrition per serving

Calories670 kcalProtein17.3 gFat44.1 gCarbs51.6 gSugar13.1 gFiber5.5 gSodium4845 mg

Dietary labels

Gluten-free: noLactose-free: noDairy-free: no

Allergen check

Gluten / wheat: containsMilk / dairy: containsEgg: not detectedFish: not detectedShellfish: not detectedPeanut: not detectedTree nuts: not detectedSoy: not detectedSesame: not detectedMustard: not detectedCelery: not detectedSulphites: not detectedLupin: not detectedMolluscs: not detected

Values are calculated per serving from ingredient amounts and the ingredient nutrition reference per 100g. Allergen and diet labels use available ingredient metadata and name matching; always check product labels for strict diets or allergies. Some ingredient amounts or nutrition values were incomplete, so this is marked as a partial estimate.


Ingredients

Parmesan Cheese0.25 cup Parmesan CheeseView ingredient guide
Spinach5 ounce SpinachView ingredient guide
Cream Cheese4 tablespoon Cream CheeseView ingredient guide
Panko Breadcrumbs0.25 cup Panko BreadcrumbsView ingredient guide
Chili Flakes1 teaspoon Chili FlakesView ingredient guide
Garlic Powder1 teaspoon Garlic PowderView ingredient guide
Gnocchi1 unit GnocchiView ingredient guide
Black Pepperteaspoon (tsp) Black PepperView ingredient guide
Butter2 tablespoon (tbsp) ButterView ingredient guide
Saltteaspoon (tsp) SaltView ingredient guide

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add gnocchi and cook according to package directions until they float, about 2-3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. While gnocchi cooks, halve the grape tomatoes. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat. Add panko breadcrumbs and garlic powder. Cook, stirring frequently, until breadcrumbs are golden and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Transfer to a small bowl and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon butter. Add spinach and cook, stirring, until wilted, about 2 minutes. Add tomatoes and cook for 1 minute more.
  4. Reduce heat to low. Add cream cheese, veggie stock concentrate and 1/4 cup water. Stir until cream cheese is melted and sauce is smooth. Add cooked gnocchi and Parmesan cheese. Toss to coat. Season with salt, pepper and chili flakes to taste.
  5. Serve gnocchi in bowls, topped with the garlic butter breadcrumbs. Enjoy immediately.

Recipe Tips

For extra flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-shredded.

If you prefer a thinner sauce, add a splash of pasta cooking water or milk.

To make it a complete meal, serve with a side salad or crusty bread.

FAQ

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, but thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before adding to the skillet. You may need to cook it a bit longer to evaporate any remaining liquid.

Can I substitute the cream cheese?

You can use mascarpone or a light cream cheese for a similar creamy texture. For a dairy-free version, try a plant-based cream cheese.

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or milk to refresh the sauce.

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