If you love gnocchi, this creamy skillet dish is about to become your new favorite. Pillowy potato gnocchi are tossed with fresh spinach and juicy grape tomatoes in a luscious cream cheese sauce, then finished with a crunchy garlic butter breadcrumb topping. It’s a perfect balance of rich and crisp and it comes together in just 20 minutes.
This recipe is all about simple ingredients that pack a flavor punch. The cream cheese creates a silky sauce without any heavy cream, while the panko breadcrumbs add a delightful texture contrast. Whether you’re a gnocchi pro or trying it for the first time, this dish is sure to impress.
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Recipe details
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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
Instructions
- Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil. Wash and dry all produce. Halve the grape tomatoes. Halve, peel and thinly slice the shallot.
- Melt 1 tablespoon butter in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add panko and cook, stirring, until golden and toasted, 2-3 minutes. Stir in half the garlic powder and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Transfer to a plate and season with salt and pepper. Wipe out the pan.
- Once water is boiling, add gnocchi to the pot. Cook until tender, 3-4 minutes. Drain.
- While gnocchi cooks, melt 1 tablespoon butter in the same pan over medium-high heat. Add shallot and cook until slightly softened, 2-3 minutes. Stir in remaining garlic powder and cook until fragrant, 30 seconds. Add 1/3 cup water, stock concentrate and cream cheese. Bring to a simmer, stirring, until combined and creamy, 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Stir tomatoes and spinach into the pan with sauce. Cook, stirring, until spinach is wilted and tomatoes are softened, 3-4 minutes.
- Add drained gnocchi to the pan and stir until thoroughly coated, adding a splash of water if needed. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Divide gnocchi between bowls, top with Parmesan cheese, sprinkle with garlic panko and add a pinch of chili flakes to taste. Serve immediately.
Recipe Tips
For extra flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-shredded.
If you prefer a thinner sauce, add a little more water or milk when stirring in the cream cheese.
Don’t overcook the gnocchi; they should be tender but still hold their shape.
FAQ
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, but thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before adding. Reduce the cooking time slightly.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free gnocchi and panko breadcrumbs. Check labels to ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.
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 loosen the sauce.


























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