Creamy Gnocchi Spinach Feta: Pure Comfort

Name: Creamy Gnocchi Spinach Feta: Pure Comfort
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tsp fennel seeds; 2 tbsp pine nuts; 1 tbsp butter; 1 tbsp olive oil; 2 cups fresh gnocchi; 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 red chili (deseeded and finely chopped); 2 medium tomatoes (chopped); 3 1/3 cups baby spinach (washed); 1/3 cup crumbled feta; Freshly ground black pepper

by Jannet Lisa

15 de September de 2025

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Creamy Gnocchi Spinach Feta has become my absolute favorite weeknight meal, and I know you’ll feel the same way. I first discovered this dish on a chilly evening when I needed something comforting and fast, and let me tell you, it delivered! The way the tender gnocchi soaks up the garlic-infused sauce, mingling with fresh spinach and tangy feta, is pure magic. It’s a truly easy creamy gnocchi spinach feta that tastes like it took hours. The aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Gnocchi Spinach Feta

An incredibly rich and savory taste that’s pure comfort food heaven.
Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Packed with fresh spinach, offering a good dose of vitamins and fiber.
This spinach feta gnocchi recipe is surprisingly budget-friendly.
A guaranteed family-pleaser that even picky eaters will enjoy.
It’s a fantastic one-pan meal, minimizing cleanup after dinner.
This spinach feta gnocchi recipe is a delicious vegetarian option.
The combination of creamy sauce, tender gnocchi, and salty feta is simply irresistible.

Ingredients for Creamy Gnocchi Spinach Feta

Gather these simple ingredients for a truly delightful gnocchi with spinach and feta cheese dish that’s ready in no time. The magic really happens with the combination of tender gnocchi, vibrant spinach, and salty feta.

2 tsp fennel seeds – crushing these really brings out their aromatic flavor
2 tbsp pine nuts – for a lovely toasty crunch on top
1 tbsp butter – adds richness to the pan-frying process
1 tbsp olive oil – helps get the gnocchi perfectly golden
2 cups fresh gnocchi – the star of our dish!
3 cloves garlic (minced) – essential for that fragrant base
1 red chili (deseeded and finely chopped) – for a gentle warmth
2 medium tomatoes (chopped) – they break down to create a light sauce
3 1/3 cups baby spinach (washed) – wilts down beautifully into the sauce
1/3 cup crumbled feta – the creamy, tangy element that makes it special
Freshly ground black pepper – to taste, for a little bite

How to Make Creamy Gnocchi Spinach Feta

Let’s get this amazing dish on your table! This recipe for how to make creamy gnocchi spinach feta is designed for ease and flavor, making it a perfect one-pan creamy gnocchi spinach feta wonder. You’ll be amazed at how quickly it comes together.

Step 1: First, crush your fennel seeds using a pestle and mortar until they’re nicely broken down. This releases their lovely, aromatic oils.
Step 2: In a large frying pan, toast the 2 tbsp pine nuts over medium-high heat. Keep an eye on them, stirring frequently until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Once toasted, remove them from the pan and set them aside for garnish.
Step 3: Add the 1 tbsp butter and 1 tbsp olive oil to the same pan. Heat them until the butter is bubbling and the oil is shimmering. Carefully add the 2 cups fresh gnocchi. Fry them, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and slightly crispy on all sides. This step is crucial for that delightful texture.
Step 4: Now, return the crushed fennel seeds to the pan with the gnocchi. Toast them for just about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until they become fragrant.
Step 5: Add the 3 cloves minced garlic and the 1 finely chopped red chili to the pan. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes, stirring, until the garlic is fragrant and the chili softens slightly. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
Step 6: Toss in the 2 chopped medium tomatoes. Cook them down for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften and break apart, creating a light sauce base for your creamy gnocchi spinach feta.
Step 7: Stir in the 3 1/3 cups baby spinach. It will seem like a lot, but it wilts down quickly. Stir gently until all the spinach is just wilted into the tomato mixture, creating a vibrant green hue.
Step 8: Reduce the heat to low. Gently fold in the golden-fried gnocchi and the 1/3 cup crumbled feta. Stir very gently to combine everything, allowing the feta to slightly melt and create a creamy sauce without breaking down completely.
Step 9: Serve your delicious creamy gnocchi spinach feta immediately. Top with the reserved toasted pine nuts and a good grinding of fresh black pepper for the perfect finishing touch.

Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Gnocchi Spinach Feta

Want to elevate your already amazing creamy gnocchi spinach feta? These little tricks have made all the difference for me, ensuring a restaurant-quality dish every time.

Always use fresh gnocchi; the shelf-stable kind from a can just doesn’t have the same tender texture.
Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying the gnocchi. Cook them in batches if necessary to ensure they get that lovely golden-brown, slightly crispy exterior.
The key to a great spinach feta gnocchi sauce is to gently fold in the feta at the very end, allowing it to slightly melt and create creaminess without becoming completely lost.
Taste and adjust seasoning before serving. A little extra black pepper or a tiny pinch of salt can really make the flavors pop.

What’s the secret to perfect creamy gnocchi spinach feta?

The secret to achieving the best creamy spinach feta gnocchi lies in pan-frying the gnocchi until they’re golden and slightly crisp before adding the other ingredients. This gives them a wonderful texture that holds up beautifully in the creamy sauce.

Can I make creamy gnocchi spinach feta ahead of time?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep some components ahead. Sauté the garlic, chili, and tomatoes, and toast the pine nuts. Keep the spinach and feta separate and cook the gnocchi just before serving to maintain their best texture.

How do I avoid common mistakes with creamy gnocchi spinach feta?

A common pitfall is overcooking the spinach, making it mushy. Add it last and stir just until wilted. Another mistake is over-stirring the feta, which can make the sauce greasy. Gentle folding is key!

Best Ways to Serve Creamy Gnocchi Spinach Feta

This versatile dish is fantastic on its own, but I love pairing it with a few simple sides to make it a complete meal. It’s hearty enough to be the star, but a few thoughtful additions really make it shine.

For a truly satisfying meal, consider serving this creamy gnocchi spinach feta with a crisp, simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. The freshness cuts through the richness beautifully. If you’re looking for something a bit more substantial, crusty bread is an absolute must-have for soaking up every last bit of that delicious sauce. It’s the perfect complement for this creamy pasta gnocchi spinach feta dish, ensuring no flavor goes to waste.

Nutrition Facts for Creamy Gnocchi Spinach Feta

Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect in each serving of this delicious creamy gnocchi spinach feta. It’s a satisfying meal that balances flavor and ingredients.

Calories: 450
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Protein: 16g
Carbohydrates: 51g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 620mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more information on nutritional guidelines, you can refer to resources like the USDA MyPlate program.

How to Store and Reheat Creamy Gnocchi Spinach Feta

Even though this creamy gnocchi spinach feta is best enjoyed right away, I know life gets busy, so storing and reheating are super important! Once your delicious spinach feta gnocchi skillet dish has cooled down completely, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze portions of your creamy gnocchi spinach feta for up to 2 months. Just make sure to use freezer-safe containers or bags.

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is a breeze. You can gently reheat it in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Alternatively, a quick zap in the microwave works too, just be sure to stir halfway through for even heating. If you froze it, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. Either way, you’ll have a comforting meal ready in minutes!

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Gnocchi Spinach Feta

What’s the best way to cook gnocchi for this dish?

For the creamiest gnocchi spinach feta, I always recommend pan-frying the fresh gnocchi until they’re golden brown and slightly crisp. This gives them a lovely texture that holds up beautifully in the sauce, making it a truly satisfying creamy gnocchi recipe spinach feta.

Can I add other vegetables to this creamy gnocchi spinach feta?

Absolutely! This dish is wonderfully versatile. You can easily add sautéed mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or even some roasted red peppers. Just make sure they are cooked before adding them to the pan with the tomatoes and spinach for the best flavor integration.

What kind of feta cheese works best?

I find that a good quality block feta cheese, crumbled yourself, offers the best flavor and texture for this creamy gnocchi spinach feta. Pre-crumbled feta can sometimes be a bit dry, but it will still work in a pinch. The goal is a slightly salty, tangy bite that melts into the sauce.

Is this a quick creamy gnocchi spinach feta recipe?

Yes, it truly is! The beauty of this creamy gnocchi recipe spinach feta is its speed. With just a few simple steps and minimal prep, you can have a delicious, comforting meal on the table in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for any night of the week. You might also enjoy our mediterranean chicken zucchini bake for another quick dinner option.

Variations of Creamy Gnocchi Spinach Feta You Can Try

While this creamy gnocchi spinach feta recipe is fantastic as is, I love to switch things up! It’s so easy to adapt this dish to your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Add Protein: For a heartier, non-vegetarian meal, stir in some cooked shredded chicken or pan-fried Italian sausage during the last few minutes of cooking. It makes this dish even more substantial.
Dairy-Free Delight: You can create a wonderful dairy-free version by using nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor and a plant-based cream alternative like cashew cream or full-fat coconut milk instead of feta and butter. It’s still a delicious vegetarian creamy gnocchi spinach feta option.
Spice It Up: If you love a bit more heat, leave some of the seeds in the red chili or add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic and chili. This makes for a wonderfully zesty and quick creamy gnocchi spinach feta experience.
Herb Garden Boost: Fresh herbs can take this dish to the next level. A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley stirred in at the end adds a burst of freshness that complements the creamy, tangy flavors beautifully.

Creamy Gnocchi Spinach Feta: Pure Comfort - ingredients laid out for the recipe