Creamy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta Recipe

Elevate your dinner with this Creamy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta dish that combines tender gnocchi, vibrant spinach, and tangy feta in a luscious creamy sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is both satisfying and healthy, making it a delightful choice for any pasta lover. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra touch of flavor and freshness.

Created by

Lacey Montgomery

Last updated on 2025-12-10T18:23:07.210Z

Cooking with Gnocchi: A Versatile Favorite

Gnocchi is a beloved Italian pasta that stands out for its unique texture and flavor. Made primarily from potatoes and flour, it provides a delightful base for countless sauces. Whether you prefer a rich cream sauce, marinara, or a simple olive oil drizzle, gnocchi has the versatility to pair wonderfully with various ingredients. This creamy gnocchi recipe showcases how easily it can transform to meet different palates while retaining its signature soft and pillowy bite.

One of the reasons gnocchi is so popular is its quick cooking time. It cooks in just a few minutes, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknight dinners. In this recipe, we leverage its speed and ease to deliver a luscious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Nothing beats the feeling of digging into a warm bowl of homemade gnocchi, especially when it's combined with flavorful additions like fresh spinach and tangy feta.

Nutritional Benefits of Spinach and Feta

Spinach and feta cheese bring not only flavor but also impressive nutritional benefits to this dish. Spinach is rich in iron, vitamins A and C, and is known for its antioxidant properties. Including spinach in your meals is a great way to boost your intake of essential nutrients while also adding a vibrant color and flavor to your plate. It's also low in calories, making it ideal for lightening up hearty meals.

Feta cheese, on the other hand, provides a tangy flavor and unique texture that complements the creamy sauce beautifully. Made from sheep or goat's milk, it's lower in fat than many other cheeses and offers a high calcium content. Beyond its physical benefits, feta adds a delightful Mediterranean touch to dishes, enhancing the overall culinary experience. Together, the spinach and feta in this creamy gnocchi create a balanced meal that doesn’t compromise on taste.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

500g gnocchi
200g fresh spinach
150g feta cheese
200ml heavy cream
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start cooking.

Instructions

Cook the Gnocchi

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions until they float. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Spinach

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted.

Prepare the Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Add crumbled feta cheese and let it melt into the sauce, seasoning with salt and pepper.

Combine Gnocchi and Sauce

Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet and gently toss to coat in the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional minute to heat through.

Serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

Tips for Perfect Gnocchi

For best results when cooking gnocchi, ensure your water is well-salted, as this will enhance the flavor of the pasta. When added to the boiling pot, gnocchi will sink initially before floating to the surface, indicating it’s cooked. Avoid overcrowding the pot to ensure even cooking. If you're not serving all the gnocchi at once, consider cooking them in batches for optimal results.

If you're feeling adventurous, try making your own gnocchi from scratch! Homemade versions can have a fresher taste and a bespoke texture. While it may take a bit more effort, the satisfaction of preparing gnocchi using just potatoes, flour, and a pinch of salt is truly rewarding.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy gnocchi pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. For a light and refreshing option, consider serving it alongside a mixed greens salad tossed with a lemon vinaigrette. The acidity of the dressing will cut through the richness of the gnocchi, balancing the meal perfectly.

For those who enjoy a bit more heartiness, garlic bread or homemade focaccia can be excellent accompaniments. The warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce, ensuring that not a drop goes to waste. Don't forget to add a sprinkle of fresh herbs or cracked pepper on top before serving for an enhanced flavor profile.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen gnocchi?

Yes, frozen gnocchi can be used. Just cook them according to the package instructions.

→ What can I substitute for feta cheese?

You can use goat cheese or any other creamy cheese in place of feta.