June 23, 2026 ยท 5 min

Creamy Gnocchi with Spinach and Tomatoes Topped with Garlic Butter Breadcrumbs

Dinner5 min642 cal / serving

If you love gnocchi, this dish is about to become your new favorite. Pillowy potato gnocchi are paired with fresh spinach and sweet grape tomatoes, all enveloped in a luscious cream sauce. But the real star is the garlic butter breadcrumb topping-crispy, golden and packed with flavor.

This recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that feels indulgent. The contrast between the tender gnocchi and the crunchy breadcrumbs is irresistible. Serve it with a sprinkle of Parmesan and a pinch of chili flakes for a little heat.


Recipe details

Dinner5 min642 cal / serving2 servings

Nutrition per serving

Calories642 kcalProtein18.7 gFat33.8 gCarbs65 gSugar16.9 gFiber6.3 gSodium5142 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

Garlic Powder1 teaspoon Garlic PowderView ingredient guide
Cream Cheese4 tablespoon Cream CheeseView ingredient guide
Baby Spinach5 ounce Baby SpinachView ingredient guide
Chili Flakes1 teaspoon Chili FlakesView ingredient guide
Panko Breadcrumbs0.25 cup Panko BreadcrumbsView ingredient guide
Gnocchi8.8 ounce GnocchiView ingredient guide
Parmesan Cheese0.25 cup Parmesan CheeseView ingredient guide
Butter2 tablespoon ButterView ingredient guide
SaltSaltView ingredient guide
PepperPepperView ingredient guide

Instructions

  1. Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil. Wash and dry all produce. Halve the grape tomatoes.
  2. Melt 1 tablespoon butter in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add panko breadcrumbs and cook, stirring, until golden and toasted, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in half the garlic powder and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Transfer the breadcrumbs to a plate and season with salt and pepper. Wipe out the pan.
  3. Add gnocchi to the boiling water and cook until tender, 3-4 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  4. In the same pan, melt 1 tablespoon butter over medium-high heat. Add the remaining garlic powder and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in 1/3 cup water, the veggie stock concentrate and cream cheese. Bring to a simmer, stirring, until the sauce is combined and creamy, 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Add the halved tomatoes and spinach to the pan. Cook, stirring, until the spinach is wilted and the tomatoes are softened, 3-4 minutes.
  6. Stir the drained gnocchi into the sauce until thoroughly coated. Add a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Divide the gnocchi between bowls, top with Parmesan cheese and sprinkle with the garlic butter breadcrumbs. Add a pinch of chili flakes to taste and serve.

Recipe Tips

For extra crunch, toast the panko breadcrumbs until deep golden brown.

If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water or regular water to reach desired consistency.

Feel free to substitute the grape tomatoes with cherry tomatoes if needed.

FAQ

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, but thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before adding to the pan. Reduce the cooking time slightly.

What can I use instead of cream cheese?

You can substitute with mascarpone or a light cream cheese. For a dairy-free version, try a vegan cream cheese alternative.

How do I store leftovers?

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

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