Description
Millionaire Gnocchi is a rich and creamy Italian-inspired dish featuring tender gnocchi coated in a luscious sauce made from heavy cream, melted mozzarella, and parmesan cheese, complemented by burst cherry tomatoes and fragrant garlic. This easy-to-make skillet recipe delivers indulgent flavors with a fresh basil garnish for a perfect weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Gnocchi
- 1 pound gnocchi
Vegetables & Herbs
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh basil for garnish
Dairy & Cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
Oils & Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the gnocchi: Prepare the gnocchi according to the package instructions, usually by boiling them in salted water until they float to the surface, then drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil and sauté garlic: In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant and slightly golden, about 1-2 minutes, taking care not to burn it.
- Add cherry tomatoes: Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook until they begin to burst and release their juices, softening the tomatoes and intensifying their sweetness.
- Create the creamy sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine with the tomatoes and garlic, allowing the mixture to warm through and thicken slightly.
- Melt cheeses into the sauce: Add the shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan cheeses to the skillet, stirring continuously until the cheeses melt completely, creating a smooth and creamy sauce.
- Season the sauce: Season the sauce with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste, enhancing the flavor balance.
- Combine gnocchi and sauce: Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet and stir well, ensuring each piece is fully coated with the rich, creamy sauce.
- Garnish and serve: Finish by garnishing with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and fresh herbal aroma. Serve the millionaire gnocchi hot for a decadent, satisfying meal.
Notes
- Use fresh gnocchi for best texture, but frozen gnocchi can also be used after proper cooking.
- Adjust the amount of cream and cheese depending on your desired sauce thickness and richness.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, but the sauce will be less rich.
- Add crushed red pepper flakes in the garlic sauté step for a spicy kick.
- Serve immediately as the sauce thickens upon standing.
