Millionaire Gnocchi with Creamy Sauce – A Rich and Indulgent Classic

When it comes to comfort food that feels downright luxurious, nothing compares to Millionaire Gnocchi with Creamy Sauce. This dish transforms pillowy-soft potato gnocchi into a restaurant-worthy masterpiece, coated in a velvety cream sauce infused with garlic, herbs, and Parmesan. Whether you’re treating yourself to a decadent dinner at home or serving guests something truly special, this recipe delivers indulgence in every bite.

What Is Millionaire Gnocchi with Creamy Sauce

Millionaire Gnocchi is a rich and indulgent version of the classic Italian dumplings, pan-seared until golden and tossed in a luscious cream sauce made with butter, garlic, Parmesan, and herbs. It gets its “millionaire” name from its opulence—creamy, buttery, cheesy, and full of flavor, making it feel like a decadent upgrade to traditional gnocchi dishes.

this Recipe

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe

• Decadent and satisfying – Creamy, cheesy, and filling.
• Restaurant-quality at home – Tastes like something from a fine Italian restaurant.
• Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Customizable – Add vegetables, proteins, or different cheeses.
• Comfort food bliss – Perfect for cozy nights in or special occasions.

How Does It Taste?

This dish is rich, velvety, and full of bold flavor. The gnocchi is crisp on the outside and tender inside, while the creamy sauce adds garlic and Parmesan depth with hints of fresh herbs. Every bite is indulgent yet comforting, with a luxurious mouthfeel that makes it hard to stop at one serving.

Health & Ingredient Benefits

• Potato gnocchi – Provides carbs for energy.
• Garlic – Supports immunity and heart health.
• Parmesan cheese – Adds protein, calcium, and umami richness.
• Fresh herbs – Deliver antioxidants and fresh flavor.
• Olive oil/butter – Heart-healthy fats (when used in moderation).

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb potato gnocchi (fresh or packaged)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)

Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Sauce whisk
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Optional Substitutions & Additions

• Protein boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or pancetta.
• Vegetable boost: Spinach, mushrooms, or roasted cherry tomatoes.
• Cheese swap: Try Pecorino Romano or Asiago for different flavor profiles.
• Lighter option: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.

How to Make

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook gnocchi according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet. Pan-sear gnocchi until golden and crispy. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté garlic until fragrant. Add cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese, rosemary, and parsley. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
5. Return gnocchi to the skillet and toss in the sauce until coated.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and herbs.

What to Serve With

• Garlic bread or focaccia
• A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Roasted asparagus or sautéed spinach
• A glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio

Tips for Success

• Pan-sear gnocchi for extra texture—it elevates the dish.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and smooth sauce.
• Keep sauce on a gentle simmer, not a boil, to prevent separation.
• Garnish with herbs right before serving for a fresh finish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking gnocchi – They should be tender but not mushy.
• Boiling cream sauce – Can cause curdling; simmer gently.
• Using pre-shredded cheese – Often coated with anti-caking agents that affect melting.

How to Store & Reheat

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.
• Freeze: Not recommended—cream sauces can separate when thawed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought gnocchi?
Yes, packaged gnocchi works great—pan-searing makes it taste gourmet.

Can I make this ahead?
You can prepare the sauce ahead, but cook gnocchi fresh for best texture.

Is there a vegan version?
Yes, use vegan gnocchi, plant-based cream, and nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan.

Nutritional Info (approximate per serving)

• Calories: 480
• Protein: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fat: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 3g

Conclusion

Millionaire Gnocchi with Creamy Sauce is the ultimate indulgent pasta dish rich, luxurious, and bursting with flavor. With golden pan-seared gnocchi and a velvety garlic-Parmesan cream sauce, it’s comfort food taken to the next level. Serve it as a decadent weeknight dinner or as the centerpiece of a dinner party, and it will never fail to impress.

Print

October 3, 2025 by Melissa