Millionaire Gnocchi with Creamy Sauce is a rich and comforting dish that brings soft, pillowy gnocchi together with a silky, dreamy sauce. The sauce usually has a lovely blend of cream, cheese, and a hint of garlic or herbs, making every bite feel just a little bit special. It’s got that perfect balance of fluffy and creamy that makes it easy to fall in love with.
I love making this dish when I want something that feels fancy but is still super simple to whip up. The gnocchi cooks quickly, and the sauce comes together in just a few minutes on the stove — it’s like a little celebration in a bowl without any complicated steps. Plus, I find that using fresh herbs or a sprinkle of parmesan on top really makes it taste like you just ordered it at a great restaurant.
One of my favorite ways to enjoy millionaire gnocchi is alongside a simple green salad or roasted veggies. The creaminess of the sauce pairs beautifully with something light and fresh, helping to balance everything out. It’s also a real crowd-pleaser, perfect for sharing with family or friends when you want to treat everyone to a cozy meal without spending all day in the kitchen.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potato Gnocchi: Fresh gnocchi gives the best texture, but store-bought works well too. If you want a lighter option, try gnocchi made with ricotta or sweet potato for a different twist.
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce rich and creamy. For a lighter version, use half-and-half or a mix of milk and a bit of cream. Coconut cream can be a dairy-free substitute but changes the flavor a bit.
Cheese: Parmesan and mozzarella add sharpness and gooey meltiness. If you don’t have Parmesan, Pecorino or Asiago work well. For mozzarella, you can use any mild melting cheese like fontina or Monterey Jack.
Tomato Paste and Smoked Paprika: These give the sauce depth and a subtle smoky flavor. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika or a pinch of cayenne can add a little heat and color.
Sage Leaves: Fresh sage brings a beautiful herbal note. If you don’t have fresh, dried sage will work—use it sparingly since it’s more potent.
How Do You Get Crispy Gnocchi Without It Sticking or Falling Apart?
Crisping gnocchi gives that delicious contrast to the creamy sauce. Here’s how I do it:
- Cook gnocchi in boiling salted water just until they float, don’t overcook or they’ll get mushy.
- Drain well and dry gently with paper towels to remove extra moisture—this helps with crisping.
- Heat olive oil in a nonstick or cast iron skillet until hot but not smoking.
- Place gnocchi in a single layer, avoiding crowding, so they crisp evenly.
- Cook without moving them for 2-3 mins until golden, then flip carefully to crisp the other side.
- Remove promptly once crispy to avoid sogginess, then toss gently in the sauce off heat.
These tips keep gnocchi crisp yet tender inside, giving you the best texture for the Millionaire Gnocchi experience!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – for boiling the gnocchi until they float, making them easy to cook perfectly.
- Frying pan or skillet – to crisp up the gnocchi and make the sauce right in the same pan.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring the sauce and coating the gnocchi evenly.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get the right amount of cream, cheese, and broth.
- Grater – for freshly grated Parmesan cheese, which adds great flavor and texture.
- Knife and cutting board – to chop onions, garlic, and herbs for the sauce.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
Swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter sauce. Add cooked bacon or pancetta for extra savoriness. Use sautéed mushrooms or spinach to include more veggies. Try seasoned with Italian herbs or a touch of chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Millionaire Gnocchi with Creamy Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) potato gnocchi (fresh or store-bought)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup tomato paste
- ½ cup vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Few fresh sage leaves
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes total. You’ll spend a few minutes boiling and crisping the gnocchi, then cook the creamy sauce and combine everything. It’s a quick, delicious meal perfect for weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Gnocchi:
Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook just until they float to the top, about 2 to 3 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
2. Brown the Gnocchi:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the cooked gnocchi in an even layer and cook until they turn golden brown and crispy on each side, about 2 to 3 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter, minced garlic, and chopped onion. Sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes until the onions are soft and the garlic smells fragrant.
4. Add Tomato Paste and Spices:
Stir in tomato paste and smoked paprika, cooking for 1 to 2 minutes to blend flavors. Pour in the broth and stir, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
5. Add Cream and Cheese:
Slowly add the heavy cream while stirring. Let the sauce simmer gently until it thickens slightly, about 4 to 5 minutes. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Add Sage Leaves:
Toss in fresh sage leaves and let them infuse for about a minute. Remove the sage leaves if you prefer before serving.
7. Combine Gnocchi and Sauce:
Return the crispy gnocchi to the skillet and gently toss to coat evenly with the creamy sauce. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the top and allow it to melt slightly.
8. Serve:
Dish out the gnocchi and sauce onto plates or bowls. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if you like. Enjoy it warm and creamy with a crispy bite!
Can I Use Frozen Gnocchi for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen gnocchi! Just cook them according to the package instructions before frying to crisp them up. No need to thaw in advance—just add a minute or two to the boiling time if needed.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover gnocchi with sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the butter and cream with plant-based alternatives like vegan butter and coconut or cashew cream. Use vegan cheeses or nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan and mozzarella.
What Can I Serve with Millionaire Gnocchi?
This creamy dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or roasted asparagus to add brightness and balance the richness.