Creamy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta

There’s something undeniably cozy about a bowl of tender potato gnocchi bathed in a luscious, creamy sauce studded with vibrant spinach and tangy feta cheese. The contrast between pillowy dumplings and the rich, velvety cream creates a harmony that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Every bite seems to melt in your mouth, the savory notes dancing with the mild bite of fresh spinach and the salty zip of crumbled feta. This isn’t just another gnocchi recipe—it’s a little celebration of simple ingredients coming together in an unforgettable way.

When I first whipped up this creamy gnocchi with spinach and feta, my kitchen was filled with anticipation. As someone who loves easy dinners that still feel special, this vegetarian meal quickly climbed to the top of my weeknight rotations. The best part? It takes just about 25 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for lunch or dinner when time is tight but flavor is non-negotiable. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner eager to expand your repertoire, this dish delivers big on taste with minimal fuss.

KEY INGREDIENTS IN CREAMY GNOCCHI WITH SPINACH AND FETA

Before diving into the cooking process, let’s review the stars of the show. Each component plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and richness that make this recipe so irresistible.

• Potato Gnocchi – Soft, pillowy dumplings that serve as the perfect base, soaking up every drop of creamy sauce and anchoring the dish with their satisfying texture.
• Olive Oil – A high-quality oil that helps sauté the aromatics and adds a subtle fruity note, enhancing the overall depth of the sauce.
• Onion – When finely chopped and gently cooked, it brings a sweet, delicate flavor that forms the foundation of the sauce.
• Garlic – Minced garlic adds a warm, pungent kick, infusing the sauce with unmistakable character.
• Spinach Leaves – Fresh and vibrant, the spinach wilts quickly, offering a lovely pop of green and a healthy dose of nutrients.
• Feta Cheese – Its tangy creaminess melts into the sauce, balancing richness with a briny bite that keeps each spoonful exciting.
• Heavy Cream – The heart of the sauce, lending a silky texture and luscious mouthfeel that ties everything together.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings that elevate and harmonize all the flavors.
• Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – A pinch of heat for those who love a gentle tingle at the back of the palate.
• Lemon Juice – A splash of brightness that cuts through the creaminess, adding a refreshing lift.
• Parmesan Cheese – Grated Parmesan enriches the dish with nutty undertones and an extra layer of savory goodness.
• Fresh Basil Leaves – Aromatic and fragrant, these greens make for a beautiful garnish and a final hint of freshness.

HOW TO MAKE CREAMY GNOCCHI WITH SPINACH AND FETA

Let’s roll up our sleeves and transform these simple ingredients into a dish that’s both comforting and luxurious. Follow these steps closely for a creamy gnocchi dinner that’s bursting with spinach and feta goodness.

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a vigorous boil. Add the potato gnocchi and cook according to the package instructions until they gently float to the surface. This floating indicates they’re perfectly tender. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a colander, then drain and set aside.

2. In a spacious pan over medium heat, warm the olive oil until it shimmers. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pieces are soft and translucent.

3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, letting its aromatic essence infuse the oil without browning.

4. Pile the fresh spinach leaves into the pan and gently toss until they wilt, which should take roughly 2 minutes. The greens will shrink and become tender.

5. Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Use a wooden spoon to stir constantly, allowing the mixture to simmer for 2–3 minutes until it thickens just enough to cling to the gnocchi.

6. Add the crumbled feta cheese, stirring until it melts into the sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and the optional red pepper flakes, tasting and adjusting until it’s perfectly balanced.

7. Gently fold the cooked gnocchi into the creamy sauce, ensuring each dumpling is evenly coated.

8. Drizzle the lemon juice over the top and sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring one last time for a harmonious blend.

9. Remove the pan from heat and scatter fresh basil leaves on top for a final burst of color and aroma before serving.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR CREAMY GNOCCHI WITH SPINACH AND FETA

Once your creamy gnocchi is ready, it’s time to think about the perfect presentation and pairings to elevate the entire meal. A thoughtful serving can turn this comforting dish into a restaurant-worthy experience right at home. Here are some easy yet effective ideas to make each portion pop:

• Rustic Bread Basket – Serve alongside slices of warm, crusty bread brushed with garlic-infused olive oil. The bread is ideal for sopping up every last drop of the velvety sauce.
• Crisp Arugula Salad – A simple salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette provides a peppery contrast and fresh crunch that cuts through the richness of the gnocchi.
• Grilled Vegetables – Offer a side of charred zucchini and bell peppers for added texture and a hint of smokiness that complements the creamy base.
• White Wine Pairing – Pour a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to highlight the tanginess of the feta and the bright notes of lemon.

HOW TO STORE CREAMY GNOCCHI WITH SPINACH AND FETA

After enjoying this hearty meal, you might find yourself with delicious leftovers. Proper storage is key to preserving that dreamy creaminess and fresh spinach flavor for the next serving. Follow these guidelines to maintain the best taste and texture:

• Refrigeration – Place the cooled gnocchi in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Before sealing, ensure the dish has reached room temperature to prevent condensation.
• Gentle Reheating – When you’re ready to eat again, heat the gnocchi in a nonstick pan over low heat. Add a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce’s silkiness, stirring gently until warmed through.
• Freezing – For longer storage, let the gnocchi cool completely, then transfer into a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Sauce Separation Tip – If the sauce appears slightly separated after refrigeration, whisk in a tablespoon of cold water while reheating to restore its integrated, creamy consistency.

CONCLUSION

This creamy gnocchi with spinach and feta has everything you could want in a comforting vegetarian meal: tender potato dumplings, vibrant greens, and a tangy, cheesy sauce that’s truly addictive. From the first boil of the gnocchi to the final garnish of fresh basil, each step is designed to deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort. The balance of silky cream, salty feta, and bright lemon creates a symphony of tastes that will keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re hosting friends for lunch or craving a cozy dinner at home, this dish fits the bill perfectly.

Feel free to print and save this article for your recipe collection, so you can revisit it whenever you need a quick and satisfying meal. Below, you’ll find a handy FAQ section to address common questions. If you give this recipe a try or have any comments, questions, or feedback about the process, I’d love to hear from you. Your experiences and tips help make our cooking community even richer and more flavorful. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!

Print Recipe

Creamy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta

Author: Annie Delgado Courses: Dinner

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 15 mins Total Time 25 mins

Calories: 480

Description

This creamy gnocchi dish is a delightful mix of tender potato gnocchi, fresh spinach, and tangy feta, creating a comforting meal that’s bursting with flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• 500 g potato gnocchi

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 200 g fresh spinach leaves, washed and drained

• 200 g feta cheese, crumbled

• 200 ml heavy cream

• Salt and pepper to taste

• ¹⁄₄ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the potato gnocchi and cook according to package instructions until they float to the top. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Stir in the spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
5. Reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream to the pan, stirring well to combine. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
6. Stir in the crumbled feta cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce. Add salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using, to taste.
7. Add the cooked gnocchi to the pan and gently toss to coat in the creamy sauce.
8. Add the lemon juice and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring to combine evenly.
9. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Note

• Potato gnocchi can easily be swapped with ricotta gnocchi for a lighter version.
• For added flavor, try using garlic-infused olive oil.
• The dish can be made gluten-free by ensuring the gnocchi is gluten-free.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheated gently.

Keywords: gnocchi recipe, creamy gnocchi, spinach, feta cheese, easy dinner, vegetarian meal