Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Gnocchi Skillet Delight
If you’re looking for a quick and tasty meal, you’ve come to the right place! My Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Gnocchi Skillet Delight combines soft gnocchi, rich sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach in a creamy sauce. This dish is simple to make and packed with flavor. With a few easy steps, you’ll have dinner on the table in no time. Ready to create a dish that delights the taste buds? Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi (fresh or frozen)
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
The main ingredients create a creamy and rich dish. Gnocchi serves as the perfect base, soft and pillowy. Sun-dried tomatoes add a burst of flavor that contrasts with the creaminess. Fresh spinach brings color and nutrients to the mix. Garlic enhances the aroma, while Parmesan cheese gives a savory touch.
Seasonings and Oils
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Using olive oil as the cooking fat adds richness. Italian seasoning combines herbs that elevate the dish. Salt and pepper enhance the overall flavor, balancing the creaminess with bright notes.
Optional Garnish
– Fresh basil
Basil adds a fresh finish to your dish. Its bright green leaves not only look great but also provide a fragrant aroma. You can sprinkle it on top for a delightful touch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Gnocchi
First, fill a large pot with salted water. Bring it to a rolling boil. Carefully add the gnocchi to the pot. Cook according to the package instructions. When the gnocchi rise to the surface, they are done. Drain them well and set them aside.
Sautéing Aromatics
Next, take a large skillet and heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add 3 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for about 1 minute. Stir often to avoid browning. You want the garlic to release its lovely aroma.
Adding Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Now, add 1 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet. Stir them in and cook for 2 to 3 minutes. This step allows the rich, tangy flavors of the tomatoes to blend with the oil and garlic.
Creating the Creamy Sauce
Gradually pour in 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir continuously to mix it well with the garlic and tomatoes. Cook for about 2 minutes until the mixture starts to simmer. This creates a delicious base for your sauce.
Incorporating Cheese
Slowly sprinkle in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts completely. This will transform your sauce into a rich and creamy delight.
Final Touches
Gently fold in 2 cups of roughly chopped spinach and the cooked gnocchi. Season with 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir everything together. Let it cook for about 3 to 4 minutes. The spinach should wilt and the gnocchi will warm through.
Plating and Garnishing
Remove the skillet from heat. If you like, top your dish with fresh basil for a nice garnish. Serve immediately and enjoy your creamy sun-dried tomato gnocchi skillet!
Tips & Tricks
Ensuring Creamy Consistency
To make a smooth, creamy sauce, avoid boiling the cream. Instead, heat it gently. When you add the cream to the skillet, stir it well. Let it simmer lightly; this helps blend the flavors. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water for a lighter texture.
Customizing Flavor
You can tweak the flavor to your liking. Try adding red pepper flakes for heat or fresh herbs like thyme or oregano for a fresh twist. Mixing in different cheeses, like mozzarella or goat cheese, can also enhance the taste. Each cheese brings a unique flavor, so experiment until you find your favorite.
Cooking Times
Cooking gnocchi correctly is key. Fresh gnocchi cooks quickly, usually in 2-3 minutes. Frozen gnocchi may take slightly longer. Watch for them to float to the top. For spinach, add it at the end. Cook just until it wilts, which takes about 2-3 minutes. This keeps it vibrant and fresh.
Variations
Protein Additions
You can easily add protein to your creamy sun-dried tomato gnocchi skillet. Chicken, shrimp, or sausage all work great. For chicken, use bite-sized pieces and cook them in the skillet before adding garlic. If you prefer shrimp, add them after the garlic, cooking until they turn pink. For sausage, slice it and brown it in the olive oil before adding the sun-dried tomatoes. These protein options will not only make the dish heartier but also add extra flavor.
Vegetarian Options
If you want a plant-based dish, there are great alternatives. Swap the heavy cream for coconut cream or a nut-based cream. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor. You can also add extra veggies like zucchini or mushrooms. This way, you keep the dish tasty and satisfying without meat.
Flavor Swaps
Changing the sauce can give your gnocchi a new twist. Try adding different herbs or spices for a fresh flavor. Basil, thyme, or rosemary can enhance the taste. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add some heat. You can also use sun-dried tomatoes packed in garlic oil for a stronger flavor. Experimenting with these swaps will keep your dish exciting and unique every time you make it.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To store your creamy sun-dried tomato gnocchi skillet, let it cool first. Then, place it in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for up to three days. This keeps the dish fresh and tasty. Make sure to label the container with the date. This helps you remember when you made it.
Reheating Suggestions
When reheating, use low heat on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of cream or water to keep it creamy. Stir often to avoid burning. This helps maintain the texture and flavor. If you notice it getting thick, just add more liquid. Serve it warm and enjoy the flavors again!
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze this dish, but it’s best to do so without the spinach. To freeze, let it cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container. It can last for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it gently, adding fresh spinach before serving for the best taste.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought gnocchi?
Yes, you can use store-bought gnocchi. Fresh gnocchi gives a soft, pillowy texture. Frozen gnocchi is also great. It cooks quickly and is easy to store. Both types work well in this recipe. Just follow the package instructions for cooking times.
How can I make this dish dairy-free?
You can make this dish dairy-free by using alternatives. For cream, use coconut cream or cashew cream. For cheese, try nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese. These swaps keep the dish creamy and tasty. Adjust seasonings to balance flavors, since some dairy-free options may have different salt levels.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Cook the gnocchi and make the sauce separately. Store them in the fridge for up to two days. When ready to eat, combine them in a skillet and heat through. This saves time and keeps flavors fresh.
What can I serve with creamy sun-dried tomato gnocchi skillet?
This gnocchi pairs well with many sides. A fresh salad adds crunch and brightness. Garlic bread complements the creamy sauce nicely. Roasted vegetables bring more flavor and nutrients to the meal. Choose sides that balance the richness of the gnocchi.
This blog post covered how to make a creamy sun-dried tomato gnocchi dish. We explored key ingredients, including gnocchi, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and Parmesan. You learned the steps to create each part of the dish, from boiling gnocchi to making the sauce. Tips for perfecting the creamy texture were shared, along with storage and reheating advice.
In the end, this meal is simple, tasty, and fun to customize. You can enjoy it now or save some for later. Happy cooking!
![Here is everything you need for this tasty dish: - 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine pasta - 1 lb fresh scallops, cleaned and patted dry - 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined - 6 tablespoons unsalted butter - 4 cloves garlic, finely minced - 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat) - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 1 medium lemon, zested and juiced - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste - Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving Fresh, quality ingredients make a big difference. The pasta forms the base and gives the dish its heart. Scallops and shrimp add a rich flavor that makes each bite special. Garlic brings out the best in seafood, while the lemon brightens everything. Don't forget the fresh parsley for a pop of color and taste. For those who like a little kick, red pepper flakes can be a nice touch. Using these ingredients, you can create a beautiful meal that impresses friends and family. Check the [Full Recipe] for detailed steps to follow. Enjoy cooking! To make perfect pasta, start with a big pot of salted water. Bring it to a rolling boil. Add 8 oz of spaghetti or fettuccine and cook it until al dente. This usually means cooking it for about 1-2 minutes less than the package says. Before you drain the pasta, save 1 cup of the starchy pasta water. This water helps the sauce stick later. After reserving the water, drain the pasta and set it aside. For great seared scallops, use a hot skillet. Melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Season 1 lb of cleaned scallops with salt and pepper. When the butter is sizzling, gently add the scallops. Sear them for 2-3 minutes on each side. They should be golden brown and opaque. Once done, take them out and place them on a plate. In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the rest of the butter. Wait until it melts, then add 4 cloves of finely minced garlic and 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes if you like heat. Sauté for about 30 seconds until the garlic smells great. Now, toss in 1 lb of peeled and deveined shrimp. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring often, until the shrimp turn pink. Next, add 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for another minute until the tomatoes soften. Return the seared scallops to the pan. Squeeze the juice from 1 medium lemon over everything, and add the lemon zest. Stir gently to mix the flavors well. Now for the fun part! Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together so the pasta gets coated in the garlic butter sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water slowly until you like the consistency. Make sure the pasta is evenly coated. Fold in 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley. Taste your dish and adjust the salt and pepper if needed. Serve the pasta hot. For an elegant touch, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top. You can also add a sprig of parsley and a lemon wedge for a nice look. Enjoy this meal that combines so many amazing flavors! Check out the Full Recipe for detailed steps. - Recommended cooking times: For scallops, cook 2-3 minutes per side. Shrimp need about 2-3 minutes until pink. Pasta should be al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. - Adjusting spice levels: If you like heat, add more red pepper flakes. For milder flavor, leave them out or reduce the amount. - Best pans for searing: Use a large skillet with a heavy bottom or cast iron. These help get a good sear on scallops and shrimp. - Essential tools for pasta preparation: A large pot for boiling pasta and a colander for draining are key. Tongs work great for tossing pasta with sauce. - Suggested wines to pair: A crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, complements the seafood well. You can also try a light Pinot Grigio. - Additional herbs and spices to try: Fresh basil or thyme can add a nice twist. A touch of smoked paprika gives a unique flavor boost. For the full recipe, check out the details above. {{image_4}} You can easily swap the seafood in this dish. Try using fish like cod or halibut. These options give a nice, flaky texture. You can also use lobster or crab for a more luxurious feel. If you prefer a lighter dish, switch to shrimp and scallops only. For a vegan or vegetarian twist, use mushrooms instead of seafood. Portobello or oyster mushrooms can add a meaty texture. You can also use firm tofu. This change keeps the dish flavorful while being plant-based. Cheese can change the flavor of this pasta. Adding feta cheese gives a tangy taste. Creamy goat cheese adds richness, while a sharp blue cheese brings boldness. Each cheese will create a unique twist. Incorporating seasonal vegetables can also enhance the dish. Fresh asparagus or zucchini adds crunch and color. You can toss in spinach or arugula for a touch of green. These veggies make the pasta healthier and more vibrant. If gluten is a concern, try gluten-free pasta. Options like brown rice or quinoa pasta work well. They will absorb the garlic butter sauce nicely without losing flavor. You can also switch up the noodles. Instead of spaghetti or fettuccine, use penne or linguine. Each type of noodle will give a different eating experience. Just make sure to adjust cooking times as needed. For the full recipe, check the section above! To keep your garlic butter scallop and shrimp pasta fresh, follow these steps: - Refrigeration: Place leftovers in an airtight container. Store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors intact and prevents spoilage. - Freezing: If you want to freeze, use a freezer-safe container. This dish can stay frozen for up to 2 months. However, scallops and shrimp may lose some texture when thawed. To enjoy your pasta again, use these reheating methods: - Best Method: Heat the pasta in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. Stir gently until warmed through. - Refreshing Flavors: To boost the taste, add a little fresh garlic or a squeeze of lemon juice while reheating. This brings back the vibrant flavors of the dish. For the full recipe and more cooking tips, refer to the Full Recipe provided above. Garlic butter scallop and shrimp pasta can last up to three days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Always check for any off smells or changes in texture before eating. Yes, you can make garlic butter scallop and shrimp pasta ahead of time. Cook the pasta and seafood, then store them separately. Mix them together right before serving for the best taste and texture. You can serve garlic butter scallop and shrimp pasta with: - A simple green salad - Garlic bread - Roasted vegetables - A light white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc These sides balance the rich flavors of the pasta. To reheat the pasta, use a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Stir gently until heated through. This method helps maintain the dish's creamy texture. You can enhance garlic butter scallop and shrimp pasta with these spices: - Fresh basil for a sweet touch - Thyme for earthiness - Oregano for a hint of warmth - Black pepper for a little kick - A pinch of paprika for color and depth These spices can boost flavor and create a unique twist. For the full recipe, check the section above. This dish of garlic butter scallop and shrimp pasta combines fresh seafood with rich flavors. We covered the key ingredients, tips for cooking pasta, and how to perfect your dish. Remember to adjust spice levels to suit your taste. You can try different seafood or pasta types for fun twists. This recipe is easy to follow and great for impressing guests. Enjoy every bite and share it with family and friends for a delightful meal experience. Happy cooking!](https://fastmealmate.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/494cb207-4638-4860-b24c-000c711884e6-768x768.webp)
![To make Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta Skillet, you need some key items. Here’s what you will use: - 8 oz penne pasta - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 lb spicy Italian sausage, casings removed - 1 medium onion, diced - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), diced - 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen) - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 1/2 cup BBQ sauce - 2 tablespoons honey - 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes - Salt and pepper to taste You can add extra flavor or texture with these ingredients: - Chopped fresh parsley for garnish - Grated Parmesan cheese for serving To prepare this dish, you will need a few handy tools: - Large pot for boiling pasta - Large skillet for cooking sausage and veggies - Colander for draining pasta - Spatula for mixing and breaking up sausage Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it reaches a rolling boil, add 8 oz of penne pasta. Cook it for about 8-10 minutes until it is al dente. Drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside for later. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. When the oil shimmers, add 1 lb of spicy Italian sausage. Break the sausage apart with a spatula. Cook until it browns nicely, which should take around 5-7 minutes. Add 1 diced medium onion and 1 diced bell pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together and sauté for about 3-4 minutes. This will help the veggies soften. Then, add 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic smells amazing. Next, stir in 1 cup of corn kernels and 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes. Pour in 1/2 cup of BBQ sauce and 2 tablespoons of honey. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes for heat. Mix it all well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This helps the flavors blend together. Once the sauce is bubbling, add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet. Toss everything gently until the pasta is coated with the sauce. Taste it, and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as you like. Take the skillet off the heat. Garnish your dish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color. If you want, add some grated Parmesan cheese on top. Serve hot and enjoy your Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta Skillet! For the full recipe, check [Full Recipe]. To get the right heat, start with the crushed red pepper flakes. I suggest using one teaspoon first. You can always add more if you want extra kick. Taste as you go. This dish should be spicy but not overpowering. Adjust it to suit your taste buds. Seasoning is key. Use salt and pepper to bring out the flavors. I often add a dash of garlic powder for extra depth. Fresh herbs like parsley can brighten the dish. Don’t forget to taste before serving. A little tweak can make a big difference. Cooking times can vary based on your stove. When cooking the sausage, look for a golden brown color. For the veggies, aim for a soft texture without losing crunch. The pasta should be al dente. Always keep an eye on your skillet. This way, you won’t overcook any ingredients. For the full recipe, check out the complete list of steps. {{image_4}} You can easily switch out ingredients in this dish. If you can't find spicy Italian sausage, use any sausage you like. Chicken sausage or turkey sausage works well too. For a lighter option, try ground turkey or beef. If you're vegan, use plant-based sausage. Honey can be swapped for maple syrup for a different sweet touch. You can also use low-sugar BBQ sauce if you're watching your sugar intake. Penne pasta is great, but many other options exist. Try fusilli or rigatoni for fun shapes. Gluten-free pasta works too if you need it. You can also use whole wheat pasta for added fiber. Just keep an eye on cooking times, as they may vary. Want to boost the nutrition? Add more veggies! Spinach or kale can wilt nicely into the dish. You can toss in zucchini or mushrooms for added flavor. Carrots or peas can add sweetness too. Feel free to get creative with what you have on hand. Each choice adds color and nutrients, making the meal even better. For the full recipe, check out the Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta Skillet! After you enjoy your Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta Skillet, let any leftovers cool. Transfer them to an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to seal the container well. This keeps the flavors fresh and tasty. To reheat, simply take the pasta out of the fridge. Place it in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Stir often until it’s heated through. You can also use a microwave. Heat it in short bursts, stirring in between. This way, it warms evenly. If you want to store the dish for longer, freezing is a great option. Let the pasta cool completely first. Then, put it in a freezer-safe container. You can also use freezer bags. Just remove as much air as possible. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. It makes for a quick meal later! For the full recipe, check out the details above. Yes, you can use different types of sausage. If you prefer mild flavors, use sweet Italian sausage. Chicken or turkey sausage also works well. You can even try smoked sausage for a unique twist. Just make sure to cook it fully before mixing it with the pasta. To kick up the heat, add more crushed red pepper flakes. You can also use spicy BBQ sauce instead of regular BBQ sauce. Adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce will give your dish extra spice. Adjust the heat to match your taste. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad. Garlic bread is great for sopping up the sauce. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables or a side of coleslaw for a crunchy contrast. Each adds a nice touch to your meal. Yes, you can make a vegetarian version easily. Substitute sausage with plant-based sausage or diced mushrooms. Use vegetable broth instead of meat-based sauces. You can also add more veggies like zucchini or spinach for extra flavor. This keeps the dish hearty and satisfying. For the full recipe, visit the section above. Now you know how to make a tasty Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta Skillet. We covered essential and optional ingredients, cooking tools, and step-by-step instructions. You learned tips for spice levels and enhancing flavors. We also explored variations, storage info, and common questions. I hope you'll try this dish at home. Enjoy experimenting with the flavors and making it your own! Happy cooking!](https://fastmealmate.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/3417b746-2870-404b-8959-e56c3fc8d9c9-768x768.webp)
 for more details and tips! Cooling your sauce is key before storing it. If you skip this step, you risk spoilage. Let your sauce cool to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps keep bacteria away. For storage, use airtight containers. Glass jars or plastic containers work well. Fill them, leaving some space at the top. This room allows for expansion during freezing. You can keep your tomato sauce in the fridge for about one week. After that, it may lose flavor and freshness. Always check for signs of spoilage. If you see mold or notice off smells, toss it out. Safety first! Freezing is a great option for long-term storage. You can pour your cooled sauce into freezer bags or containers. Make sure to label them with the date. This keeps your freezer organized. Aim to use your sauce within six months for the best taste. After this time, it may lose flavor. When ready to use, thaw it overnight in the fridge or heat it directly from the freezer on low heat. For homestyle canned tomato sauce, I recommend using Roma tomatoes. They have fewer seeds and thicker flesh, which gives you a rich sauce. Heirloom tomatoes are also great. They offer unique flavors, but they can be juicier. Choose what you like best! Yes, you can use canned tomatoes. They are convenient and save time. Canned tomatoes are often picked at peak ripeness, giving you good flavor. However, they may contain added salt or preservatives. This can change the taste of your sauce. Always check the label before using! If your sauce is too thin, there are easy ways to fix it. First, let it simmer longer. This allows excess water to evaporate. You can also add tomato paste. It thickens the sauce and adds more flavor. Another option is to use a blender for a smoother texture. Try these methods to get the right thickness! In this blog post, I shared how to make homestyle canned tomato sauce. We covered key ingredients like ripe tomatoes, onion, and olive oil. I provided step-by-step instructions for preparing, sautéing, and simmering. You learned tips for perfecting the sauce and several tasty variations. Finally, I gave guidelines for storage and answered common questions. Making your sauce allows for creativity and customization. Enjoy the process and the flavors you create!](https://fastmealmate.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/d3d80814-eb56-4e2c-a9cc-6b13653587fc-768x768.webp)